Hong Kong Heroes

Field of Dreams is a story about faith and determination that is set in the 1930s. This weekend, the musical is being presented in Beijing for the first time. [Photo provided to China Daily]

This weekend, the musical is being presented in Beijing for the first time.

"This musical is about faith and determination. I wanted to tell a story which is set in the 1930s but can be shared by people of today. It's encouraging and inspiring for the contemporary audiences, especially the young people, to pursue their dreams despite hardships," says Chan in Beijing. "I also want to present how Hong Kong looked like in the 1930s－less skyscrapers, less technology, less commercial."

Chan also notes that this year marks the 40th anniversary of Hong Kong Repertory Theatre, the oldest and largest professional theater company in the city. He wants to revive the musical again as a celebration.

In 2003, the musical got a fresh look, adding dancers from Hong Kong Dance Company. In the upcoming performances, audience will see new changes, including a live orchestra.

"I often look back on this musical though it has been almost 10 years past. Every time we revise it, we have new music, new actors and new ideas," says lyricist Shum.

Shum and his longtime partner, composer Ko, have been working together for over 10 years. They are behind the soundtrack for the award-winning film Perhaps Love, by Hong Kong director Peter Chan.

"Before writing music for Field of Dreams, I knew nothing about football," says Ko. "We spent months with professional players in Hong Kong to get inspiration. With long observation, I found that players have their tempo with the football. I tried to blend that tempo into the music beat."