Sunbeam Theatre in North Point is counting down its final days before closing in March. To celebrate its rich history, the theatre is once again opening its doors to the public for free. If you missed its last open day, then don’t sit out on this one before its final curtain call. Visitors will be able to explore previously unseen areas of the theatre, try on traditional costumes, and enjoy a mini Cantonese opera performance. Check out details about the open day below.
When is Sunbeam Theatre’s open day? Is it free to enter?
The Sunbeam Theatre open day will take place on February 22, from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free for all visitors.
Activities on Sunbeam Theatre’s open day
Visitors to the Sunbeam Theatre open day can explore various corners of the theatre and discover its nostalgic decor, including vintage chandeliers and retro weighing machines. This time, the theatre will also unveil spaces that have never been open to the public before.
Six Cantonese opera actors will interact closely with guests around the theatre, and over 30 precious Cantonese opera costumes will be on display, including the highly valuable ‘Dai Kau’ (grand armour) which will be available for visitors to try on for free on the theatre’s grand stage (registration required at the theatre lobby at 10am and 12pm). Additionally, the theatre’s grand auditorium will host Cantonese opera performances at 11.40am and 1.40pm, each lasting around 20 minutes.
When will Sunbeam Theatre close down for good?
The Sunbeam Theatre’s final day is on March 3. The property has been purchased by the Island Evangelical Community Church (Island ECC) and will be redeveloped into a church and community hall.
A look back on Sunbeam Theatre’s history
The Sunbeam Theatre was built in 1965 and opened in 1972, initially serving as a movie theatre. In the 1980s, it began renting its space to Cantonese opera troupes, gradually becoming a renowned venue for Cantonese opera performances in Hong Kong. When the theatre was facing closure in 2012, Lee Kui Ming, founder of the Sheng Shi Tian Drama Troupe, stepped in to renew the lease and invested over $10 million to revitalise the building, transforming Sunbeam Theatre into a multipurpose venue for Cantonese opera, concerts, and film screenings.
Sunbeam Theatre
Address: 413-423 King’s Road, North Point
Transport: MTR North Point Station, Exit B1