The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA) will present The Adding Machine, a classic work of American Expressionism by Elmer Rice, at the Academy Drama Theatre from 28 November to 1 December 2018. This production is directed and adapted by Drama alumnus and lecturer Alex Cheung and is in collaboration with the School of Theatre and Entertainment Arts — re-staging the drama Cheung once directed 24 years ago as his graduation project.
Mr Zero is an accountant who remains “seated all day to add up digits”. For 25 years, he has been doing the same work over and over again and never takes a day off, until one day he is fired when his boss replaces him with a newly launched adding machine. Infuriated, Mr Zero kills his boss, and for that he is sentenced to death. The story becomes more surreal as it develops…Mr Zero is then brought back to life and comes across interesting people from different times. Towards the end of his afterlife journey, he makes a decision that takes everyone by surprise...
Originally written in 1920s when mechanical applications gained popularity and re-interpreted in today’s age of artificial intelligence, the play explores the relationship between man and technology, and the value of man within the systems around us.
“As human beings, we all live in various systems: economy is one, institutionalized religion is another. Systems are the embodiments of a world of binary settings. They distinguish us from 'good' to 'bad' and from 'right' to 'wrong' – but are there any other settings that can possibly go beyond such dichotomy? If so, how can they inspire and create meanings for humanity?”, asks Cheung.
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The Adding Machine Drama in Cantonese, with Chinese and English surtitles This production is suitable for audience aged 12 or above |
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Playwright: Elmer Rice Director / Adaptation: Alex Cheung Translator: Wu Hoi-fai Set & Costume Designer: Siu Jiou Associate Costume Designer: Iris Lai Lok-yee Lighting Designer: Katie Leung Sound Designer: Sharon Tsang Production Manager: Yiu Wing-sum Cast: So Chun-wai, Ma Yat-ha, Choi Wai-ki, Cheng Kam-fung, Yuen Hon-cheung, Yuen Wang-chun, Man Hoi-lam, Elly Lam, Cheung Hoi-ki, Franchesca Wong, Wong Kit-yi, Cheung Yan-ha, She Lok-in, Chan Chi-fung, Cheung Chi-ho, Chow Man-chung, |
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Date: 28.11 -1.12.2018 | 7:30pm 1.12.2018 | 2:30pm |
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Venue: Drama Theatre, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts |
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Ticket Price: $50-$105 Tickets are available at HK Ticketing’s box offices: 31 288 288 / www.hkticketing.com |
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About The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (www.hkapa.edu)
The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts (HKAPA), established by Government Ordinance in 1984, is a leading tertiary institution in performing arts in Asia. It provides professional undergraduate education and practice-based postgraduate studies. The study encompasses Chinese Opera, Dance, Drama, Film and Television, Music, and Theatre and Entertainment Arts. Its educational philosophy reflects the cultural diversity of Hong Kong with emphasis on Chinese and Western traditions, and interdisciplinary learning.