The life and legacy of Frida Kahlo, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, has been transformed into a mesmerising ballet and will soon be staged in Hong Kong as part of the show’s Asian premiere. This production from the Hong Kong Ballet brings Kahlo’s personal struggles, artistic vision, and vibrant world to life through a fusion of classical and contemporary dance. With striking costumes, powerful storytelling, and a captivating score, this ballet offers audiences an unforgettable glimpse into the mind of the Mexican icon. Frida will take place at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts from April 4-6, 2025, and tickets for the five shows are already available for purchase.
A Dazzling Performance of Dance, Music, and Art
Renowned for her work in Coco Chanel: The Life of a Fashion Icon, choreographer Annabelle Lopez Ochoa has crafted an inventive and emotionally charged ballet that explores Frida Kahlo’s triumphs and tragedies. The production blends ballet with contemporary movement, creating breathtaking partnerships that convey the artist’s passionate relationships and personal struggles.
The ballet is set to an original score by Peter Salem, which weaves together elements of mariachi, flamenco, and jazz, capturing the spirit of Kahlo’s Mexico. The performance also features stunning costumes and sets by Dieuweke Van Reij, incorporating motifs from Kahlo’s famous self-portraits —skeletons, floral prints, traditional Mexican skirts, and animal imagery. One of the most striking aspects of the production is its black-and-white opening, symbolising Kahlo’s early life, before bursting into colour as she discovers her artistic calling.
Tickets for Hong Kong’s Frida Show
Tickets for the show are available on Cityline and priced at HK$250, HK$350, HK$500, HK$720, and HK$1,200. However, the prices don’t include handling fees of HK$12-HK$15, which will vary depending on whether you get them on the Cityline website or via the platform’s hotline. There are also group discounts for purchases of 10-plus tickets and concessions for students and senior citizens.
EVENT | Frida |
VENUE | Lyric Theatre, Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, 1 Gloucester Road, Wan Chai |
DATES | April 4-6, 2025 |
WEBSITE | www.hkballet.com/en/see-hkb/production/frida |
Image credits: Nationale Opera & Ballet