Emperor On Stage (2026)

The Emperor, his Mom, a Eunuch and a Man is a theatrical production set for performance in 2026, directed by Roy Szeto and written by Poon Wai Sum. The play retells a strange tale from the Qing court during the reign of Emperor Tongzhi, focusing on the power struggle involving the all-powerful eunuch An Dehai, who served as an aide to the Empress Dowager. Using the pretext of procuring a dragon robe to leave the Forbidden City, An Dehai travels to Shandong where he is arraigned by magistrate Ding Baozhen, leaving his fate hanging by a thread amidst conflicting royal interests.

Originally premiering in 2013 and winning six accolades at the 23rd Hong Kong Drama Awards, this 2026 iteration features distinct sets and staging designed to highlight the complexity of human character and relationships within the historical drama. The script reflects real characters in the Qing court, mirroring the broader world through their interactions and conflicts.

• The production is scheduled to run from March 24-28, 31, and April 1-3, 2026, with matinee performances on March 22, 28-29, and April 4-5.
• All performances will take place at the Shouson Theatre, located in the Hong Kong Arts Centre at 2 Harbour Road, Wan Chai.
• The main cast includes Lau Shau Ching, Chan Suk Yi, Pang Hang Ying, Ko Hon Man, and Tunes Ting.
• Tickets are priced at $400, $300, or $200 for evening shows, and $360, $260, or $180 for matinees, available via URBTIX starting February 5, 2026.