Gala Production 2020 - Julius Caesar

This unique adaptation of Julius Caesar blends Shakespeare’s historical tragedy with the futuristic universe of Star Wars, drawing parallels between the fall of Rome and the collapse of the Galactic Republic. Julius Caesar, like Obi-Wan Kenobi, is betrayed by someone he trusts as a son—Brutus mirrors Anakin Skywalker, manipulated by Cassius (the Palpatine figure) to turn against his mentor. The production creatively imagines Rome as a galaxy far, far away, combining ancient political intrigue with sci-fi aesthetics. With characters wielding lightsabers and iconic Star Wars references sprinkled throughout the Shakespearean verse, this adaptation aims to resonate with modern audiences, especially fans of the sci-fi epic. The futuristic setting, complete with spaceships and high-tech locations around Hong Kong, enhances the themes of betrayal, power, and political collapse, drawing a visual and thematic link between two vastly different worlds.

The production also faced extraordinary challenges due to the COVID-19 pandemic, yet the creative team transformed these obstacles into opportunities. Filming took place entirely remotely, with students acting from their homes using green screens and receiving full costume and makeup kits. Parents stepped into roles as videographers, lighting experts, and wardrobe assistants, helping bring this ambitious vision to life. The soundtrack, carefully selected from iconic films and television series, adds depth to the atmosphere of conspiracy and tension, with live orchestral arrangements enhancing the cinematic experience. Despite the hurdles, this version of Julius Caesar 3030 is a testament to innovation, community effort, and the timeless relevance of Shakespeare’s work—set in a futuristic world but grounded in the enduring human themes of ambition, loyalty, and fate.

A huge thank you to our sponsors, whose generous support and invaluable collaboration made this incredible production possible. Our heartfelt thanks go to ADMGS (Art Development Matching Grants Scheme), Rotary Hong Kong South, The Vincent and Lily Woo Foundation, Miss Lily Chow, and our founding sponsor, Swire Properties, for their commitment to our vision.

The S4A Annual Gala

The S4A Annual Gala has become the leader in the Children’s Performance Arts field in Hong Kong. Each year one of Shakespeare’s classic plays is reimagined to align itself with the history, heritage, and culture of Asia, mixed with elements and concepts from the modern days.

​Since 2018, S4A Annual Gala has been funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust through their support for the Jockey Club "Destiny In Ourselves" Youth Drama Programme and Jockey Club "All The World's Our Stage" Shakespeare Youth Drama Programme. The Gala has a cast, orchestra, and production team of over 100 young people aged between 8 and 18. It is an opportunity for young people to challenge their aspirations to step out of their comfort zone and embrace the power and magic of theatre both on and off the stage.

They learn performance skills such as classical theatre training, physical theatre techniques, vocal and singing training, dance, stage combat, martial arts, puppetry, character, and cultural study. The chosen students undertake intensive training over August and the performance is usually in September. The audition applications are cut off at 300 and only 60 places are available.

The student technical production team of the Gala are from the S4A Powerhouse Project, who embark on a week-long theatre internship as the final part of their 2-month training. Additional students who are part of the production team are Alumni of the performers who work directly beside the Artistic Director as Junior Assistant Directors.