In the year 1986, Lindsey McAlister stepped foot onto Hong Kong soil for the first time, and in an instant, a profound realization engulfed her being—she had discovered her true home. Exiting the train at Kowloon Tong, she sensed an ethereal presence, as if an angelic choir serenaded her arrival, whispering in her ear, “You have been brought here to create magic.” The magnetic pull of Hong Kong was so overpowering that it compelled her to reject a prestigious job offer from Arts Council England, altering the course of her life forever.
Since that fateful day, McAlister’s love affair with Hong Kong has endured, unyielding and steadfast. Over the past three decades, she has emerged as an indomitable force within the city’s vibrant performing arts scene. Her profound dedication culminated in the establishment of the Hong Kong Youth Arts Foundation in 1993, leaving an indelible mark on the creative landscape. And now, the culmination of her unwavering passion takes shape in the form of “Project After 6: Mou Man Tai,” an enchanting musical-comedy that celebrates the peculiar and wonderful elements that have captured her heart in this metropolis.
From June 16th to 24th, the stage at ArtisTree in Taikoo Place will come alive with the vivacity of “Project After 6: Mou Man Tai.” The musical takes its name from the ubiquitous spirit that permeates the hearts of Hongkongers—the irrepressible attitude captured by the Cantonese term “mou man tai,” meaning “no problem.” The production boasts a diverse ensemble cast of 33 individuals, none of whom are singers or actors by trade. Their presence lends a unique authenticity to the performance, embodying the sacrifices they have willingly made and the conviction that this venture is undeniably worthwhile.
With mischievous affection, McAlister describes her bond with Hong Kong as akin to playfully teasing a beloved partner. It is this endearing sentiment that shapes the essence of “Mou Man Tai.” Departing from the constraints of a linear narrative, the musical unfolds as a series of humorous vignettes, weaving together the tapestry of Hong Kong’s kaleidoscopic existence. Through melodies and lyrics, the production pays homage to the tiger moms, the “super tutors,” the devoted domestic helpers and their employers, the bustling public transport, and the vibrant culture of Lan Kwai Fong. Each scene and song is an exuberant celebration, a radiant love letter to the idiosyncratic and unparalleled spirit that permeates every facet of this remarkable city.
Written four years ago by McAlister and her frequent collaborator, the Emmy- and BAFTA-winning composer Nick Harvey, “Mou Man Tai” represents the culmination of their creative synergy. As the curtains rise on this whimsical spectacle, audiences will be transported into a world where the intangible essence of Hong Kong is illuminated and cherished. The stage will pulsate with the passion and dedication of McAlister and her cast, offering a captivating experience that promises to evoke smiles, ignite imaginations, and inspire a profound appreciation for the enigmatic wonders of this remarkable city.
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