Crime and Punishment

Dostoevsky’s psychological thriller about a young man’s journey towards redemption

Young, impoverished and possessed by self-righteousness, a former student commits murder in the name of alleviating human misery, but ends up with a tormented conscience. He later meets a prostitute with a pure soul, who shines a beacon of light on his path. Will he spiral deeper into anguish, or will he finally resurrect himself in a moment of truth?

A masterpiece by Russian novelist Fyodor Dostoevsky, Crime and Punishment traces the protagonist’s psychological journey and moral dilemmas after he commits the ultimate crime. Probing the relationships between the individual and society, morality and power, and religion and freedom, the drama revolves around the protagonist’s battle with himself and those around him, illuminating the conflicts between radicalism and morality, and free will and the will of God.

Adapted by Phillip Breen, an Associate Artist of the Royal Shakespeare Company, and directed by renowned Hong Kong director Desmond Tang together with Breen, the 2025 Hong Kong version embodies a contemporary touch and features a powerhouse local cast.

Led by Ben Yuen, named Best Supporting Actor at the Golden Horse Film Awards, who plays the relentless inspector in pursuit of righteousness, the 15-strong ensemble of stage and film/TV actors will bring to life this epic drama full of poignant characters and dark humour. Get ready to experience a thrilling theatrical reflection on good and evil that will set your heart ablaze.

Commissioned and produced by the Hong Kong Arts Festival