Co-hosted by Artistic Director Madeleine Onne and Assistant Artistic Administrator Sasa Chow, the Preview of Swan Lake took place on 16 August 2016 with over 150 enthusiastic audience members at the Studio Theatre inside Hong Kong Cultural Centre.  

During the engaging presentation, the audience learned more about the various aspects of Swan Lake, including its choreographers, set and costume design, composer and evolution from the original production in 1877 to its present day rendition. Madeleine also shared the story of Swan Lake using videos of different interpretations of the production throughout the world. Afterwards, Company dancers Zhi-yao Chen and Jia-bo Li discussed their experiences of dancing their respective roles of Odette and Prince Siegfried as well as their thoughts on being a part of Hong Kong Ballet.

Additionally, the audience were treated to signature Swan Lake dance excerpts performed by Company dancers: Rui-xue Dong, Naomi Yuzawa, Yumiko Fukuda and Yuri Moriwaki in Cygnets; Zhi-yao Chen and Jia-bo Li in White Swan Pas De Deux and Qing-xin Wang, Lin Li and Lucas Jerkander in Spanish Dance. At the Preview’s conclusion, the Company’s dancers performed the mime scene from the end of Act III along with Madeleine’s insightful narration. Participants truly savoured getting an early glimpse of this classical ballet masterpiece!