HONG KONG – On a festive December afternoon, the curtain rose on more than just another performance of The Nutcracker. It marked a love letter to Hong Kong—one that has now been read, danced and applauded 100 times.

Hong Kong Ballet’s The Nutcracker – A Hong Kong Adventure reached its 100th performance on 28 December, celebrating its fifth anniversary as a homegrown holiday tradition. Proudly presented by Henderson Land, the milestone performance captured everything audiences have come to adore about this reimagined classic: familiar city icons, local stories, and a sense of collective nostalgia that feels unmistakably Hong Kong.

Before the music even began, the audience was in for a surprise. Beloved Hong Kong actress Sandra Ng stepped onstage as guest announcer for the matinee, instantly setting a warm, celebratory tone. Her appearance underscored what this production has always represented—The Nutcracker not as a distant European fairytale, but as a story rooted in the heart of the city and its people.

Since its debut, this version of The Nutcracker has welcomed more than 140,000 audience members, becoming a seasonal ritual for families, ballet lovers and first-time theatre-goers alike. For its centennial performance, the ballet introduced charming new elements that delighted even longtime fans. The iconic Star Ferry made its stage debut, carrying Clara and the Nutcracker Prince across shimmering waters back home, while Ocean Park’s beloved panda twins, Jia Jia and De De, appeared for the first time in a whimsical bamboo forest scene—playful, tender and unmistakably local.

As the final notes of Tchaikovsky’s score faded, the Grand Theatre erupted into applause. A celebratory cake was wheeled onstage, marking a moment that felt as communal as it was historic. Among those in attendance were many familiar faces who have helped shape Hong Kong’s cultural fabric—from artists and chefs to athletes and heritage keepers—including the ballet’s creative collaborators, Star Ferry representatives, Ocean Park staff and trailblazing figures such as Hong Kong’s first Chinese female jockey, Sherie Kong.

Artistic Director Septime Webre describes the production as “a love letter to the people of Hong Kong.” Set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music performed live by the Hong Kong Sinfonietta, the ballet blends classical technique with distinctly local imagery. “From the Star Ferry to the pandas, we wanted audiences, both local and visiting, to feel the soul of Hong Kong on stage,” he shared.

That connection was deeply felt in the audience. Ocean Park panda caretaker Pang Wing Sze was visibly moved by the panda scene. “Seeing the young dancers tumbling and playing like Jia Jia and De De was absolutely adorable,” she said. “It reminded me of how lively they are every day at the park.”

For Sherie Kong, the horse racing sequence struck a personal chord. “Horse racing is such an important part of Hong Kong culture,” she noted. “This production is filled with local charm; it’s heartwarming, joyful, and truly a Christmas must-watch.”

Beyond its festive sparkle, The Nutcracker – A Hong Kong Adventure has also garnered international recognition. In 2024, it received UNESCO’s Star of Outstanding Award and the Spirit of Culture Award at the Spirit of Hong Kong Awards, honouring both its artistic excellence and its commitment to education and community outreach.

Looking ahead, Hong Kong Ballet shows no signs of slowing down. With its 50th anniversary on the horizon and ambitious new productions in development—including an original dance drama inspired by martial arts legend Bruce Lee—the company is setting its sights firmly on the future.

Yet, for many, it’s this Nutcracker, filled with ferries, pandas, Lion Rock spirit and holiday magic, that holds a special place in their hearts. After all, few productions manage to capture a city’s identity so gracefully, reminding audiences that sometimes, the most magical journeys begin right at home.

More information about The Nutcracker – A Hong Kong Adventure available here