Hong Kong’s exciting performance art scene will satisfy every culture-deprived visitor in town. Be it cutting-edge dance shows or traditional Chinese music concerts, the city’s local performance art groups always know how to put on an incredible show. Here are some of the most celebrated groups and companies that definitely deserve a spot on your must-watch list.

Feel the sound of music and catch the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra in action. As the first orchestra in Asia to receive the prestigious Gramophone Orchestra of the Year Award in 2019, HK Phil is one of Asia’s most acclaimed ensembles. Currently helmed by music director Jaap van Zweden, one of today’s most sought-after conductors, the orchestra offers everything from classical repertoire and innovative programmes — such as their Silver Screen series where the music score of popular films like Star Wars and E.T. are played live alongside the movie — to education and community programmes that introduce classical music to people of all ages.

Fans of orchestral music can also turn to the Hong Kong Sinfonietta, a local orchestra known and loved for their invigorating performances, or enjoy a refreshing take on Chinese music by the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, which performs both traditional Chinese music and contemporary works.

If you’re looking for something with a burst of energy, Hong Kong Ballet (HKB) is your answer. Comprised of nearly 50 dancers from Hong Kong and around the world, Hong Kong Ballet is a vibrant performing arts company that strives to represent the city’s unique culture and energy through live performances and community engagement initiatives. With numerous accolades under its belt, HKB’s dynamic repertoire includes new works under the direction of Artistic Director Septime Webre, re-staging classic tales such as Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, and performances by internationally acclaimed guest dancers.

Moving outside of the ballet world, catch performances by Hong Kong Dance Company, a non-profit art group that looks at Chinese dance through contemporary perspectives, and City Contemporary Dance Company, a local dance company known for their productions that often reflect Hong Kong's unique and complex culture.

Prefer a night at the opera? Delight in performances by Opera Hong Kong (OHK), Hong Kong’s first professional opera company. Founded in 2003, OHK has staged numerous world-class productions under the artistic direction of world-renowned Chinese tenor Warren Mok, including Carmen, Romeo and Juliet, Don Giovanni, Madama Butterfly and many more. In addition to opera pieces, OHK also provides a variety of opera courses and workshops for kids and adults to learn the skills of acting, singing and dancing.

For one of the most unique cultural experiences in the city, don’t miss traditional Cantonese opera performed by the Chinese Artists Association of Hong Kong. Established in 1953, the group seeks to promote the art of traditional Cantonese opera with regular performances held in Hong Kong and the Mainland.

Theatre lovers can get their dose of thespian art from local companies such as Hong Kong Repertory Theatre, one of the longest-standing professional theatre companies in the city. With a professional team of award-winning directors, actors and actresses, the Hong Kong Repertory Theatre has staged over 400 productions since its establishment in 1977, developing a diverse repertoire that covers original new works by local artists, adaptations of classics and contemporary plays from around the world.

There are also many home-grown theatre companies that put on exciting performances through the seasons, including Chung Ying Theatre Company where theatre productions are often filled with local flair, and Zuni Icosahedron, an experimental theatre company that focuses on alternative theatre and multimedia performances.