Description

St. Margaret Mary's Church in Happy Valley marks its 100th anniversary with a series of celebratory events, including a carnival, a school concert, and an overseas pilgrimage. The highlight of these celebrations will be the musical theatre production, 'A Century of Humanity'!

'A Century of Humanity' is directed by veteran actor and parishioner Tyson Chak (Dik Kai-tai), with renowned actor and parishioner Liu 松仁serving as an advisor. The story is inspired by the parish's historical documents, collected materials, and oral histories of parishioners, combined with original characters to create a three-dimensional portrayal of the beautiful church's century-long journey. University student and photography enthusiast, Zhang Ru-ting, encounters an elderly gentleman, Grandpa Zhang Jian Ji, on the streets of Causeway Bay. Together, they travel through time, witnessing the church's journey through wars, droughts, and religious reforms. Amidst the tides of history, parishioners have journeyed together, united in building their spiritual home. Spanning generations, 'A Century of Humanity' intertwines faith and familial bonds, using music, drama, and dance to narrate the century-old story of St. Margaret Mary's Church and its companionship with the people of Hong Kong.

The musical theatre production features original songs composed for the church's centenary, including the theme song 'A Century of Humanity' and 'Using Love to Lead the Beloved'. It also includes adaptations of popular songs from different eras, hymns, and classic melodies performed by various groups within the parish community. These include Father Camillus Kim Yongjae, Father Anthony Chan, Sister Winnie Yuen, parishioners from different generations, students from Maryknoll College, St. Paul's Co-educational College, St. Margaret Mary's Catholic Kindergarten, and members of the church choir.

St. Margaret Mary's Church: A Century of Companioning Hong Kong

Founded by Priests of the Paris Foreign Missions Society -- St. Margaret Mary's Church was founded on February 3, 1623, and consecrated on January 25, 1625. It is the first church in the Orient dedicated to Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque. Located in Happy Valley, it has laid a strong foundation for evangelization in Hong Kong, guiding people for centuries to discern worldly matters and pursue heavenly blessings.

Veteran Theatre Director Tyson Chak: A Wonderful and Beautiful Arrangement

Director Tyson Chak, who is not a parishioner, expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the centenary celebrations. From delving into the parish's history and writing the script to overseeing rehearsals and crafting each stage scene, his journey has been a profound experience of the church's companionship and dedication to Hong Kong over the past century. 'I am deeply grateful for the trust and support of the priests and the entire team, both on and offstage. Our exchanges have reinforced my belief that this work carries not just memories but a mission. It is my hope that through this production, we can transform the passion and faith of our community into a warm glow, sharing the century-old story of this church with every audience member.'

Tyson Chak's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TysonChakSTARWOW

Production/Participating Personnel

Organizer: St. Margaret Mary's Church
Advisor: Liu 松仁
Director: Tyson Chak
Scriptwriter: Ha Chi-yan
Music Director: Cheng Yu-sum
Music Advisor: Chan Chun-hin
Dance Director: Tong Nga
Production Director: Li Hao Xian
Costume Design: Yuen Chi-ho, Wan Yin-chi
Lighting Design: Yip Chun-lam
Sound Design: Wan Sun-hong
Short Film Director: Chan Dak-lei
Graphic Design/Printing: Lai Yin-chong, Siu Wai-chung
Programme Editor: Parish Communications Team
Producers: Father Camillus Kim Yongjae, Fung Wai-yu

Main Cast:

Wei Siu-kei - Elderly Zhang Jian Ji (Grandpa)
Hung Tsz-yat - Zhang Ru-ting (Granddaughter)
Shi Ying-jun - Young Zhang Jian Ji (Grandpa)
Lai Yin-chong - Young Chan Sau-ching (Granny)
Ng Pui-yu - Siu-lin (Zhang Jian Ji's Mother)
Lau Chun-ting - Cheung Cheung-ho (Zhang Jian Ji's Father)