Gala Production 2019 - Hamlet

This adaptation of Hamlet brings Shakespeare’s classic tale of revenge, madness, and mortality into the vibrant cultural landscape of India, particularly focusing on the historical backdrop of Punjab. Drawing parallels between Prince Hamlet and Maharaja Kharak Singh, son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, this version emphasises the themes of power, loss, and the tragic consequences of failed leadership. Like Denmark after King Hamlet’s death, the Sikh Empire fell into disarray after the demise of Ranjit Singh, creating an ideal setting for the existential dilemmas and moral questions Hamlet grapples with. By situating the play in this historical context, the production draws on the cultural richness, political upheaval, and familial dynamics of the Sikh Empire, enhancing the timeless relevance of Shakespeare’s narrative. This unique Indian adaptation explores universal questions about loyalty, honour, and the human condition while reflecting the tensions between tradition and change.

In addition to its cultural shift, this production incorporates music from The Beatles to underscore Hamlet’s emotional journey. Songs like “Help!” and “Yesterday” resonate with Hamlet’s inner turmoil and longing for resolution, while tracks like “Live and Let Die” and “Let It Be” echo the play’s themes of revenge and acceptance. The choice of The Beatles, who themselves underwent a transformative period after their time in India, adds a layer of introspection and modernity to the production. By blending iconic music with Shakespeare’s text, the adaptation connects with younger audiences, while also addressing themes like depression and mental health openly. Through this fusion of cultures, music, and history, the production invites a deeper reflection on death, mental well-being, and the human struggle for meaning and justice.

A huge thank you to our sponsors, whose generous support and invaluable collaboration made this incredible production possible. Our heartfelt thanks go to The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, First Initiative Foundation, 3812 Art Enterprises Limited, The Jessie & George Ho Charitable Foundation, The Royal Society of St. George Hong Kong Branch, The Vincent and Lily Woo Foundation, Caritas Bianchi College of Careers, and our founding sponsor, Swire Properties, for their commitment to our vision. We also appreciate the thoughtful contribution of G2000 as our Gala Production T-Shirt Sponsor.

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.