Lights Out for Landmark Hong Kong Theatre

A Legendary Venue Closes Its Doors

HONG KONG: A landmark Hong Kong venue that became synonymous with Cantonese opera for more than half a century closed its doors in the early hours of Tuesday, with hundreds gathering to watch its neon signs going dark.

A Brief History of Sunbeam Theatre

Established in 1972, the ornate venue was the proving ground for generations of performers in the city and mainland China, and was lauded as the “palace” of Cantonese opera.

Theatre’s Whimsical Touches

The lobby was adorned with calligraphy, a gong and drum for good luck – as well as 108 round lamps suspended from the ceiling. A coin-operated weighing machine added a dash of whimsy.

Community Response

“This theatre grew up with us,” said neighbourhood resident Franklin Mui, who recalled watching shows there as a teen. “I never thought it would close down.”

Cantonese Opera’s Rich History

Cantonese opera originated in southern China and became a staple of post-war Hong Kong’s cultural life, with its popularity peaking around the 1960s.

Challenges and Legacy

But with changing tastes, Sunbeam ran into repeated financial trouble and nearly closed in 2012 before playwright Edward Li took it over. The theatre tried to win over younger audiences with modern takes on the art form, including an absurdist tale about US President Donald Trump told in Cantonese opera style.

“(Sunbeam) is a collective memory that Hong Kongers don’t want to give up,” Li told AFP in January. “But he acknowledged that the theatre’s heyday was behind it, adding that the government could have done more to support it.

Final Curtain Call

At 15 minutes after midnight, following a farewell ceremony in the 1,000-seat auditorium, the lights went out.

Conclusion

The closure of Sunbeam Theatre marks the end of an era in Hong Kong’s cultural scene. While the theatre’s heyday may be behind it, its legacy will live on in the hearts of those who grew up with it.

FAQs

* When did Sunbeam Theatre close?
The theatre closed its doors on Tuesday morning.
* Why did Sunbeam Theatre close?
Sunbeam ran into repeated financial trouble and the new owners plan to convert the premises into an evangelical church.
* What is Cantonese opera?
Cantonese opera originated in southern China and became a staple of post-war Hong Kong’s cultural life, with its popularity peaking around the 1960s.
* Who was the last owner of Sunbeam Theatre?
The last owner was playwright Edward Li, who took over the theatre in 2012.