By hannover-web.com The Four Seas Players is excited to announce that tickets for their upcoming stage production, “Guilty as Charged,” are now available for pre-sale. This original play will be performed at the Abrons Arts Center, located at 466 Grand Street, New York, NY 10002, from November 9 to 17, featuring a total of seven performances with both Chinese and English subtitles. Ticket prices are set at $25 for general admission, $20 for early bird purchases, and $12 for seniors. Due to limited seating, early ticket purchases are encouraged.
“Guilty as Charged,” written by the renowned Hong Kong playwright Wong Ching-Hin in 2015, won the Best Script award at the 9th Hong Kong Small Theatre Awards the following year. This production is directed by seasoned performer and producer Han Chuo-Tong, and it features a talented cast, including Cao Jun-Ying, Jian Zhao-Xiong, Chen Min-Yu, Ng Pui-Yi, Liu Ming-Kang, Xu Zi-Hang, Si Ma-Sen, Tang Ren-Wei, Chen Shu-Yi, Lu De-He, Lu Yi-Ming, and David Rodriguez.
The play is adapted from the works of German lawyer Ferdinand von Schirach, exploring the concepts of crime and guilt. It delves into the formation and definition of evil through the unique performances and profound text that aims to create a visceral impact on the audience. The story unfolds as a lawyer opens a legal case file filled with blood and transgression. It features a local physician, a broken vow of love, and a violent moment that leads to unimaginable consequences, prompting the question: how many times must one die to admit guilt? As we uphold the notion of “justice being served,” von Schirach reveals, “Justice is not found in the courtroom.”
Han Chuo-Tong, stepping into the director’s role for the first time, chose to take on “Guilty as Charged” because she found the script captivating from her first reading. She believes the theme can lead audiences to deeper reflection. “I have always favored stories that provoke exploration and inspiration. Combining this with my personal experiences, I understand how many people in today’s society have lost the ability to think independently. They passively accept narratives provided by society and often think within established frameworks. Many habitually follow the crowd, believing that popular opinion equates to correctness. This mindset overlooks the vital importance of critical thinking.”
Han is also drawn to the play’s basis in real legal cases, stating, “Since childhood, I’ve viewed everything with a critical eye, believing that every situation has multiple facets and perspectives. Different viewpoints naturally lead to different interpretations, so we mustn’t impose our views on others or force conformity. Everyone has the right to think freely, and listening to diverse opinions can foster social harmony. This script, with its multifaceted narratives, challenges audiences to reconsider their habitual beliefs and encourages them to reflect from various angles.”
The performance runs approximately two hours, including an intermission. Latecomers will be admitted at appropriate intervals. Please note that the play contains adult themes and language, and it is recommended for audiences aged 14 and older. Performances will take place on November 9 and 16 at 3 PM and 7 PM; November 15 at 8 PM; and November 10 and 17 at 3 PM, all in Cantonese with English and Chinese subtitles. Tickets can be purchased for $25, with early bird discounts at $20 and senior discounts at $12. Due to limited seating, early ticket purchases are advised. For inquiries, please call (718) 831-1998. For online ticket purchases and additional details, please visit the Four Seas Players website at fourseasplayers.org.
