Opera Hong Kong is gearing up to stage “The Magic Flute” in May, promising a fresh take on the classic work.

This production emerges from an exciting partnership involving Opera Hong Kong, the China National Opera House, and State Opera South Australia, with Shuang Zou taking the helm as director.

The cast features standout performers Andrés Moreno García, Sofia Troncoso, John Chest, and Aigul Khismatullina, with Dane Lam leading the orchestra as conductor and Dan Potra crafting the visual world through set and costume design.

In an official press statement, Shuang Zou explained the team’s decision to shift away from the opera’s frequent nods to freemasonry, opting instead to embrace the depth of eastern mythological traditions. “The story naturally holds ideas like the unity of self-discovery, the belief that inner truth guides us, and that love and truth are uncovered through faith and compassion,” Zou noted. “These themes made it an obvious choice for our creative team to steer this rendition of The Magic Flute toward a profound exploration of the ‘East.’”

This bold reimagining of “The Magic Flute” aims to captivate audiences by blending Mozart’s timeless score with a visually and thematically rich Eastern lens. Shuang Zou’s direction will transport the characters into a world where ancient philosophies intertwine with the opera’s narrative, offering a fresh perspective on their journey of enlightenment and connection.

Rehearsals are already underway, with the international cast and crew collaborating closely to bring this vision to life. Andrés Moreno García, known for his commanding stage presence, will share the spotlight with Sofia Troncoso’s lyrical finesse, while John Chest and Aigul Khismatullina add depth to the ensemble with their vocal prowess. Under Dane Lam’s baton, the music promises to resonate with both power and subtlety, complementing Dan Potra’s intricate designs that fuse Eastern aesthetics with the opera’s fantastical essence.

Opera Hong Kong anticipates that this production will not only honor the spirit of Mozart’s masterpiece but also spark meaningful conversations among viewers about the universal truths embedded in its story. Tickets are set to go on sale soon, with excitement building for what promises to be a highlight of the city’s cultural calendar in May 2025.