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We are all unique, each with our own distinct individuality. Art, a reflection of our shared humanity, connects us all, transcending individual abilities with boundless creativity and expression.
 
The sixth edition of “No Limits”, an inclusive art platform co-presented by the Hong Kong Arts Festival and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, spotlights the exceptional talents of professional performers with different abilities, from local and international backgrounds. This year’s theme, “Showcasing Human Perspectives”, provides context to the unique challenges faced by individuals and artists with disabilities, whose artistic expressions addressing everyday issues resonate universally.
 
Among the curated performances is Hamlet by Teatro La Plaza. This unique interpretation of Hamlet, penned by renowned Peruvian playwright Chela De Ferrari and enriched with the cast’s personal experiences and thoughts, transcends traditional palace intrigue and revenge.
 

Intertwined journeys
Prepare for unexpected twists in the intertwined journeys of Hamlet and the young actors. The narrator addresses the audience before embarking, “For those who want to stay, don’t even think you’re going to see that Hamlet. So is everyone ready?”
 
Shakespeare’s iconic play portrays a young prince haunted by his father’s ghost, murdered by his uncle, King Claudius. While Hamlet’s journey reflects humanity’s questions, Hamlet by Teatro La Plaza offers a fresh perspective on our existence and social values.
 

Drawing loosely from Shakespeare’s original text, Hamlet by Teatro La Plaza delves into the existential question, “To be or not to be?” In this freely adapted classic, the question acquires a radical new meaning. The collaboration between Chela De Ferrari and the actors immerses the audience in the freedom and spontaneity of blending original lines with the actors’ personal struggles.

Historically, disability or deviation from social norms has marginalised many, hiding them away. The actors, in their candid performances, share personal stories that challenge audiences to reflect on societal taboos and the question, “How can one exist in a world that excludes them?”
 
This production provides a platform for the cast to express their demands, reflections, and desires. Through vivid storytelling, occasional humour and lively interaction with the audiences, they reinterpret the play, addressing discrimination and challenging social and theatrical norms. It’s as if the actors are holding up a mirror on stage, prompting the audiences’ reflection on injustices and distorted realities.
 
For example, an actor playing Hamlet enlightens the audience by reinterpreting a line from Shakespeare’s As You Like It: “I am both myself and Hamlet. I enjoy acting because the world is a stage where all men and women are merely players. An individual plays many parts in his lifetime.” His insightful words remind us that despite our differences, we all seek common ground. The political and familial tragedy leading to the deaths of Ophelia and Hamlet forces us to confront our behaviour towards others and differences. Sometimes, society’s focus on what is considered normal can extinguish the very essence of life.
 

Hamlet by Teatro La Plaza, a typical creation of the company founded as a non-profit by Chela De Ferrari in 2003, embodies its founding principles: to question, provoke, surprise, denounce, and dream. By investigating and interpreting reality, and fostering dialogue with its community, Teatro La Plaza builds a critical viewpoint. Through original new plays and reimagined classics, the company explores contemporary issues, posing key questions that help us better understand our reality, the complexities of our times, and the intricate nature of humanity.
 
Chela De Ferrari served as the artistic director for Teatro La Plaza, until 2021. Born in Lima, she studied painting at the University of Puerto Rico in Rio Piedras and theatre at the Club de Teatro de Lima. She spent five years in Córdoba, Argentina, directing the group EXTRAS and staging collective creations and Argentine plays. Upon her return to Peru, she directed several productions at the PUCP Cultural Center. In 2017, she was appointed to the National Cultural Advisory Commission of the Ministry of Culture, Peru.
 
Hamlet by Teatro La Plaza is a compelling mix of personal monologues, classical drama, pop music, dance, and subtle humour. The performance’s impact stems from the actors’ sincere and potent expressions. It engages audiences, encouraging them to contemplate issues of inclusion and discrimination. The innovative performance, with its laughter-inducing and wisdom-filled simple dialogues, effectively kindles audience empathy.
 

No Limits
“Art is a source of life’s meaning,” Marcel Proust muses in his pivotal work, In Search of Lost Time. Artists, by peeling back the veil of habit and convention, present the world in a fresh and vibrant manner, enhancing our appreciation of daily life.
 
“No Limits,” a part of the global movement advocating for diverse and inclusive art, aims to dismantle barriers and broaden audience engagement. This year, it showcases works from 20 artists, both local and international. The programme features six performances across music, theatre, and dance genres, complemented by online film screenings of influential European and Asian filmmakers and actors.
 
Additionally, “No Limits” hosts a series of PLUS events, including workshops, sharing sessions, and an online roundtable discussion. These events provide participants with insights into the lives of people with disabilities, the significance of diversity and inclusion, and a platform to exchange ideas on promoting positive social change.
 
Hamlet by Teatro La Plaza
Venue: Auditorium, Kwai Tsing Theatre
Date and Time:
March 8 (Friday), 8pm
March 9 (Saturday), 8pm
March 10 (Sunday), 3pm
Tickets: HK$180 and HK$110