August 20, 2025

Artist Spotlight: Anna Ka wai Kwan on Painting Between Bites

by: The Beat Asia

August 20, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

If you’ve scrolled through social media lately, you may have stumbled upon the charming sight of a young woman, watercolor brush in hand, capturing the soul of a dish before ever taking a bite. Between bustling café tables and candlelit bistros, Anna Ka wai Kwan is transforming plates into painted keepsakes — each stroke a love letter to flavor and form.

Hong Kong–born and now a familiar face in New York’s vibrant dining scene, Anna has always been a passionate artist who has recently begun her journey in food content creation, blending her two passions into a signature style that’s as appetizing as it is impressive.

The Beat Asia caught up with the artist to talk about her beginnings, her foray into live painting, love for food and art, and how those two combined make up her colorful and vibrant world.

Live food paintings by Anna Ka wai Kwan — Instagram/ Anna Ka wai Kwan

A Plate Full of Inspiration

Anna has always been a gifted artist — a passion that was founded, unsurprisingly, at the dinner table.

“I always tell people it's such a full circle moment. My mom told me that I started picking up a coloring pencil, probably a few months in, when she brought me to restaurants,” she shared. “Ever since I was little, I have always drawn at restaurants and during meal times. I’d always hold on to crayons that she gave me and just scribble and stuff.”

As she grew older, her hobby of scribbling and coloring morphed into a full-blown passion. She started focusing on acrylic painting, which is the primary medium she likes to use. She was also introduced to Chinese watercolor painting later on, a medium she uses mostly for her food content. Anna was also an art scholar in high school and even had an exhibition at the Hong Kong Public Library when she was fourteen years old. She eventually moved to New York where she pursued a Fine Arts degree at the Parsons School of Design.

Known mostly for her live painting escapades in cafes and bistros in the city, Anna dipped her toes into content creation only last year when she started doing live portrait painting as a way of exploring what she wanted to do after graduation.

“I was always good at painting and drawing really fast,” she told The Beat Asia. “So I just set up an easel in Washington Square Park and just did that one day. People came up to me and bought the paintings and it was like a 10-minute portrait painting, but with acrylic paint! So, people were like, 'what?' It was new compared to just sketching on a piece of paper.”

Beyond her skills, Anna also shared that a reason she decided to start with live portrait painting was to share more about the process of creating a piece, which she believes creates meaningful connections with people and sparks interest in the art form.

“Everyone kind of views art as something you create at home or in a very secluded area. But I feel like with live painting, when people see the process, they feel a little bit more inclined to start as well. It’s kind of intimidating as a person who doesn't do art to only see the final piece, not realizing how many steps or how many ‘trust the process’ moments actually happen throughout the painting process. It just doesn't go from blank page to a final piece. I think that's one of the beauties about it. People can see it. People can feel more comfortable talking to an artist about it. I have so many who come up to me and start a conversation and say that they just see me enjoying the moment and they want to be into that too. I think it’s really beautiful.”

Side by side of painting of Ross Geller Moist Maker Thanksgiving sandwich with photo by Anna Ka wai Kwan — LinkedIn/ Anna Ka wai Kwan

Today, Anna’s live painting and previous food content work have evolved into a distinct niche: painting at restaurants. The artist told us about how she only began recording herself in September 2024 while on a trip to one of her favorite bakeries in the West Village called Claude, with the encouragement of her best friend, who went with her. Armed with her portable watercolor palette, a medium she was re-familiarizing herself with at that time after focusing on acrylic for a while, and with the help of her friend in recording, she created her first live food painting.

“It was just us tasting the pastries and me painting. It felt awkward at first but when I rewatched the video, it was so soothing. I loved watching it. So, I edited the video and added a little voiceover where I talked about my mom wanting to open a bakery when she was little and posted it.”

“The video didn't do amazing, but I didn't really care at that point. I was just amazed at how the video encapsulated me as a person and as a creative. I was doing a lot of food content at that time. I love like cooking, I love making food, and I love the community aspect of food. I also loved editing, doing social media, and talking. So, in the moment, I felt like this kind of video encapsulated me as a whole. It was authentically me.”

Anna continued to create and post her live food painting escapades for fun, until she posted one from her Paris trip which blew up. People started genuinely liking her post, and she eventually earned a solid following—around 157k on Instagram as of writing. She also shared how she views food as a portrait, every dish having its own personality, even fashion and culture behind it.

“Food is such an art form and it's not appreciated enough. You kind of just see it, maybe take a photo, but a photo lasts two seconds and then you eat it and you forget about it. Where it's like when you're painting, you kind of look at the food more; you look at all the details and the colors and the composition. It’s kind of like a flavor for the eyes.”

But more than followers and likes, it’s her art and how she expresses herself through it that shines through her page. In each painting that she creates, a lot of elements come into play—from the lighting, sound, and overall atmosphere and vibe of the place. All of those things are incorporated into her work, creating something truly unique and impressive. She puts in a lot of research into the food places she visits, often looking up the destination, reading through reviews on Reddit, and asking locals to make sure that she’s featuring something she would personally recommend.

Anna also adores fashion and can be seen matching her outfits to the vibe of the restaurants she’s dining in, which adds to the performance factor, all without compromising authenticity.

When asked about her typical setup, Anna shared her top painting essentials, which include her sketchbook, iPad mini, a painting pouch that has her Van Gogh palette, and a waterbrush; her Micron pen, which is waterproof when it dries, perfect for outlining her drawings; a mechanical pencil, and a kneadable eraser, which was recommended by her followers. Since she records herself, she also brings a small tripod for her phone and manually adjusts the angles for her reels.

As part of her process, she talks to the restaurant's owners or staff before doing a painting session and always makes sure she visits during off hours when it isn’t too busy. When asked about some of her favorite moments while filming, she mentioned an interaction she had at a café in Paris when a waiter had come over and admired her work and proceeded to showcase it to all the other staff. But the memorable part about it was how, on her next visit six months later, the waiter had recognized her.

“I painted their hot chocolate and then I went again to paint their macarons. They didn't know I was going but I sat down, I painted, and then the guy was like, I remember you! He brought over some snacks for me, which was really sweet. It was really great to be remembered.”

Having been born and raised in Hong Kong and now living in the Western side of the world, Anna is exposed to a lot of different cultures and flavors.

When asked how it has influenced her art, she replied, “I was fortunate enough to be born and raised in Hong Kong. I moved here only four years ago and then I just built my life here by myself. Back in Hong Kong, I went to an International School, so I was very immersed in a lot of different cultures, which was great. Hong Kong's food scene is so diverse and so rich. It's phenomenal! You can literally have any type of cuisine in one building.”

“And then in New York, I get here and it's the same thing, but the cultures are a little bit different. The diversity is still there, but I think the communities that dominate New York City are a bit different. It's a lot more interesting because Hong Kong is more British-oriented and more European-esque compared to America. So it reallyshaped me as a creative to be immersed in such diverse cultures; to be able to just hone that into my practice and be super open-minded with both food and how I paint. People say that my style is unique in a way that they can't really pin a style to it. It's not Japanese-looking, but it does have some French influences, but it's not 100% that either. I feel like that also encapsulates me as a person.”

During our conversation we also touched on balancing creating for herself versus creating for an audience and the artist had been candid that she’s still learning to balance everything.

“I'm so grateful to be able to do what I do. I'm still learning how to balance it because I do go through burnout sometimes. But one thing that's helpful for me is to always have a personal project. It's nice to not have to video myself. Sometimes I just want to paint and not stare at my phone. So I think just having something for yourself is so important.”

Anna’s painting escapades and travels also led her to meet other fascinating personalities including Japanese contemporary artist and icon Takashi Murakami who even drew a Shrimp cocktail with her at a dinner she attended.

“I want to get to a point in my career and in my life where I also have that similar community and support of people who appreciate my art and appreciate me as an artist as well,” she said about meeting the legendary artist. “And the way that he did it was so fast and natural. I just found that really inspiring. You can tell that he really loves what he does.”

Anna and Takashi Murakami — LInkedIn/ Anna Ka wai Kwan

As for what her advice would be for up-and-coming artists or those hoping to pursue a similar creative path, she said to “take the leap and keep going” despite how terrifying it could be.

“Being nervous is a good thing, because that means that you actually care enough to be nervous. If you’re not afraid to fail, then I don't think it matters that much to you, and you need it to matter that much to you. Every day I get really nervous and that means I'm just so passionate about it. You just have to trust yourself and your intuition. Don't use nervousness or being scared as a way to back out but use it as a way to power through.”

Anna is returning to Paris soon and will stay there for a while to pursue what she calls her “European arc.” She shared her desire to explore more cities there, get in touch with the food scene, and hopefully work with big names like the Michelin guide. She also mentioned how she plans to publish a coffee table book, and explore the world more, especially the culinary scene in Asia.

You can view some of Anna’s art prints for sale on her website or follow her creative journey on Instagram and TikTok.

Enjoyed this article? Check out our previous Artist Spotlight profiles here.

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Hong Kong/ The List/ Artists

August 20, 2025

The Venues and Collectives Keeping HK’s Underground Music Culture Alive

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by The Beat Asia

August 20, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Underground rave culture has always been more than just music. It’s a movement built on freedom, connection, andsound. Born from warehouse parties and DJ collectives, it thrives in spaces where people gather not for status, but for the shared experience of rhythm and release. In 2025, Hong Kong’s underground scene is alive and evolving, driven by a growing appetite for alternative genres, inclusive dancefloors, and community-led energy.

At the heart of this culture is the PLUR ethos — Peace, Love, Unity, and Respect. First coined by New York DJ Frankie Bones in the early ’90s, PLUR soon became a guiding philosophy for ravers worldwide. It’s what separates underground spaces from commercial nightlife: no velvet ropes, no bottle service, just dancers who look out for each other, DJs who play for the vibe, not the algorithm, and venues that prioritize sonic exploration over spectacle.

While raves are often thought of as one-off, nomadic events, undergroundclubs are their more permanent counterparts, spaces that carry the same spirit night after night. These clubs typically feature genres like techno, drum & bass, hardcore, footwork, and experimental electronic — sounds that challenge the mainstream and invite immersion. They’re often raw, intimate, and tucked into basements, lofts, or repurposed industrial corners. But in a city like Hong Kong, where space is scarce and rents are high, some venues blur the lines, offering underground experiences within more polished or curated environments.

Read on for both the core venues that anchor Hong Kong’s underground rave scene and the bridges — spaces that may not be underground by structure, but host events and collectives that embody the culture’s values. Whether you’re chasing basslines or community, here’s where to plug in.

Hong Kong Clubs and Underground Venues

Social Room

A loft-stylevenue above Stanley Street, Social Room is one of Hong Kong’s most consistent homes for underground electronic music. With a semi-industrial vibe and a dedicated dancefloor, it regularly hosts weekend parties featuring genres like drum & bass, garage, techno, and experimental bass. It’s a reliable spot for those seeking raw sound and community-driven energy.

Location: Social Room, 3/F, Won Hing Building, 74-78 Stanley St, Central

宀 Club

Hidden in Sheung Wan, 宀Club is a minimalist, no-photo venue built around deep listening and sonic immersion. With a Funktion-One sound system and a capacity of around 100, it offers a focused environment for techno and ambient sets. While not open every night, their programming is intentional and curated, with each event designed to reflect the club’s commitment to underground culture.

Location: 宀 Club,4F, 279-281 Des Voeux Rd Central, Sheung Wan

OMA

What the inside of a typical underground club looks like

Tucked underneath Wyndham Street just off of Pottinger, OMA is a long-standing fixture in Hong Kong’s underground scene. Known for its late-night sessions and genre-spanning sets with techno, acid, bass, and breakbeats, it operates primarily on weekends. The club’s intimate layout makes it a go-to for purists and night owls.

Location: Oma Hong Kong, LB/F, Harilela House, No. 79 Wyndham Street, Central

SLAP (拍)

A two-room venue in Mong Kok, SLAP (拍) is a rising force in the city’s underground circuit. While its programming varies week to week, it frequently hosts genre-fluid events featuring techno, drum & bass, footwork, and more. SLAP is especially known for spotlighting emerging artists and collectives pushing sonic boundaries.

Location: Slap, 2/F, Spark City, 25 Tong Mi Rd, Mong Kok

Bamboo

Located in Central, Bamboo is a newer underground venue with a raw aesthetic and immersive lighting. It doesn’t host events nightly, but when it does, expect genres like deep techno, house, and experimental sets in a tightly curated environment. Bamboo has quickly earned a reputation for delivering high-impact underground experiences.

Location: Bamboo Hong Kong, G/F, 21 D'Aguilar Street, Central

The Trilogy

A multi-concept venue in Central, The Trilogy includes Keyz (its clubbing section), Ella (the speakeasy), and Wav (a rooftop bar). While not a dedicated underground venue, Keyz occasionally hosts events that lean into house, techno, and alternative electronic styles. It’s a polished space that occasionally channels subcultural energy.

Location: The Trilogy, 26/F, H Code, 45 Pottinger St, Central

Soho House

A members-only club in Sheung Wan, Soho House isn’t underground by design but it has hosted events featuring underground DJs and collectives. These are occasional and curated, often tied to cultural programming or special collaborations. It’s a platform where underground sounds meet a design-forward crowd.

Location: Soho House, 33 Des Voeux Road West, Sheung Wan

Terrible Baby

Inside Eaton HK, the hotel's bar Terrible Baby blends cocktails, art, and music. Its Music Room occasionally hosts experimental DJ nights and inclusive events like Queertopia. While not a club in the traditional sense, it’s a cultural playground where underground energy surfaces through curated programming.

Location: Terrible Baby, 4/F, Eaton HK, 380 Nathan Road, Kowloon

On top of nightlife, these eight venues are gateways to sonic discovery. From rising local selectors to international DJs passing through on low-key tours, Hong Kong’s underground spaces are where new sounds break and subcultures connect.

Some nights might feel like a secret shared among a hundred dancers. Others might surprise you with a world-class artist playing an intimate set far from the festival circuit. That’s the beauty of the underground for it’s unpredictable, unfiltered, and always evolving. If you’re looking to experience the pulse of the city beyond the mainstream, these are the places to start.

The Crews Behind the Sound: Hong Kong’s Underground DJ Collectives

If underground venues are the skeleton of the scene, DJ collectives are its beating heart. These crews shape the sonic identity of Hong Kong’s rave culture, curating lineups, building communities, and pushing genre boundaries. Some operate in established clubs, others in pop-up spaces, warehouses, or outdoor locations announced only hours before. Their presence is what transforms a room into a movement.

Abyss

Abyss, co-founded by Shanda (now based in Berlin) and Angelika, is a techno-forward collective known for sporadic but unforgettable parties. Their sound is percussive, psychedelic, and uncompromising, often featuring artists from Europe. Abyss events are rare nowadays, but when they happen, expect full houses.

Dark Metaz (黯)

Dark Metaz(黯) is a collective that leans into the shadows. Their sound is deep, dubby, and cinematic in genres like dub techno, experimental bass, and ambient textures. Besides holding parties themselves, they’ve also brought international artists like Hamdi and The Glitch Mob to Hong Kong, but their real strength lies in crafting immersive atmospheres that feel more ritual than rave.

The Glitch Mob on the deck at a Hong Kong underground party — The Glitch Mob in Hong Kong 2023; Photo by the Author

Feed the Dragon

Feed the Dragon is a bass-driven collective with a mission to champion UK sounds across Asia. From jungle to drum & bass, to garage, their events are rhythmic rebellions. They’ve launched a label, hosted workshops, and played in cities from Hanoi to Amsterdam, always having an ear tuned to the underground.

Goldway

Goldway channels the hypnotic side of rave culture. Their sets explore ambient, deep techno, and psychedelic rhythms, often performed in intimate venues or outdoor gatherings. Goldway’s sound is meditative and transportive, the music for dancers who close their eyes and drift.

Heavy Hong Kong

Heavy Hong Kong, for more than 2 decades, has been the city’s bass authority. Known for their custom-built sound system and devotion to drum & bass, dubstep, and reggae, they’ve hosted parties in places around the city, featuring bass you feel in your chest, not just your ears.

MÖTH Agency

MÖTH Agency is a queer-led collective that blends nightlife with cultural programming. Their parties are inclusive, genre-fluid, and often paired with workshops, radio sessions, and community outreach. MÖTH’s regular broadcasts feature up-and-coming DJs from around the world, making them a vital bridge between Hong Kong’s underground and the global electronic scene.

Slimefest

Slimefest, known for high-energy raves and genre collisions, co-hosted Hong Kong’s first Keep Hush party, spotlighting local talents like StickyFriedVibes and Baby Diwata. Their events are unapologetic, sweaty, and deeply communal.

HRD.ept and Fry Up at Keep Hush Hong Kong 2024; Instagram/ Slimefest; Courtesy of Jake My Breath Away

Yeti Out

Yeti Out is perhaps the most globally recognized of Hong Kong’s collectives. With roots in streetwear and subculture, they’ve hosted parties from London to Shanghai and recently played at Boiler Room Hong Kong. While their brand has grown, members still appear in underground events, keeping one foot firmly planted in the scene that raised them.

0159 Group

0159 Group emerged during the pandemic and quickly became a force in Hong Kong’s nightlife. Led by Yueming and Noscope720, they’ve hosted genre-spanning events featuring UK garage, breaks, and experimental club sounds. Their visual identity is raw and futuristic, and their bookings often include international artists on low-key tours.

Together, these collectives, alongside many more, form the soul of Hong Kong’s rave culture. They’re curators, connectors, educators, and provocateurs. Whether you’re stepping into a club or following a pin drop to a secret venue, chances are one of these crews is behind the decks, shaping the night.

Follow the Instagram of these venues and collectives to stay updated with some of the best parties in Hong Kong.

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Hong Kong/ Fashionista/ Artists

August 19, 2025

U-TREASURE Collaborates with Anime 'Haikyu!!' for Ring Necklace Collection

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by U-TREASURE

August 19, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Any “Haikyu!!” fans out there?

Tokyo-based jewelry brand U-TREASURE has unveiled a special collaboration with popular anime “Haikyu!!,” with 13 new designs of the “Ring Necklaces” now available for pre-order in Hong Kong from now until Aug. 29, 2025!

A poster with anime characters and a ring design — The 13 Characters from Karasuno High School | Courtesy of U-TREASURE

The necklace design features the team colors of Karasuno High School and Aoba Johsai High School on the inside, while the inside can be engraved with one of 13 characters: Hinata Shoyo, Kageyama Tobio, Tsukishima Kei, Yamaguchi Tadashi, Nishinoya Yu, Tanaka Ryunosuke, Ennoshita Chikara, Sawamura Daichi, Sugawara Koshi, Azumane Asahi, Oikawa Toru, Iwaizumi Hajime, and Kunimi Akira.

Each piece, made in Silver 925, is priced at HK$1,320 and designed so the ring can be worn alone or layered with other necklace charms.

“’Haikyu!! The Dumpster Battle’ was a hugely popular film, ranking first at the Taiwanese box office, and earned a gross box office revenue of over JPY¥20 billion worldwide. With this release, we are proud to be able to bring our craftsmanship of character jewelry to fans in Taiwan and Hong Kong,” said a representative from U-TREASURE.

Pre-orders are open exclusively via the U-TREASURE Online Shop here until Aug. 29, 2025. For more information, follow U-TREASURE on Facebook and Instagram.

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Hong Kong/ Vibe/ Artists

August 17, 2025

Hong Kong’s New 1,500-Capacity Music Venue TIDES Set to Launch in Whampoa

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by TIDES

August 17, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Hong Kong is about to get louder, in the best way possible. Live Nation has officially unveiled plans for TIDES, a brand-new, purpose-built live music venue opening this fall in the iconic ship-shaped The Whampoa complex in Whampoa, Kowloon.

With a standing capacity of 1,500, TIDES fills a long-standing gap in the city’s live entertainment infrastructure, offering a professional-grade space for artists who are too big for clubs but not quite stadium-scale.

Stage design concept of TIDES — Courtesy of TIDES

Designed entirely in-house by Live Nation, TIDES will be fully equipped with integrated sound, lighting, and flexible staging for seamless plug-and-play operation.

To be located on the 1/F and U1/F of The Whampoa, the venue will also include artist support areas and a lounge for pre-and-post-show gatherings, making it as functional behind the scenes as it is immersive for fans. With a projected 250 event days annually, TIDES is poised to become a central hub for concerts, brand activations, and mid-scale productions.

Its launch couldn’t come at a better time. Hong Kong’s live music ecosystem has long struggled with a lack of mid-sized venues. The closure of KITEC and its Star Hall in Kowloon Bay last year left a noticeable void, forcing promoters to choose between intimate club spaces or cavernous stadiums. While government-run auditoriums like MacPherson Stadium and Ko Shan Theatre offer some relief, they weren’t designed with touring artists in mind and often lack the technical infrastructure required for modern productions.

Lounge design concept of TIDES — Courtesy of TIDES

The shortage is even more acute for small venues. Spaces with capacities between 300 and 600, ideal for emerging acts and indie showcases, are few and far between. Most are multi-purpose cultural centers or black box theaters with limited availability for music programming. This bottleneck has made it difficult for local talent to scale up and for international artists to include Hong Kong in their regional tours.

TIDES aims to change that. “The design prioritizes efficient setup, making it seamless for acts to include Hong Kong in their tour plans,” said Stephanie Bax, President of Venue Development Asia at Live Nation.

By offering a space built specifically for live music, TIDES not only aims to support the city’s cultural ambitions but also repositions Hong Kong as a competitive stop on the global concert circuit.

Follow TIDES’ Instagram here and Live Nation’s website here for updates and additional information.

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Hong Kong/ The List/ Artists

August 17, 2025

Cristiano Ronaldo Headlines Saudi Super Cup’s Historic Debut in Hong Kong

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Al Nasar's Instagram

August 17, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

In less than a month after Hong Kong Football Festival 2025, the city is gearing up for another football spectacle unlike any hosted before.

From August 19 to 23, the city will welcome the 2025 Saudi Super Cup, marking the first time the prestigious tournament is held outside the Middle East.

All matches will take place at the 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium in Causeway Bay, bringing top-tier Saudi Pro League action to local and international fans.

The event marks the first time the Saudi Super Cup is being held outside of Saudi Arabia — Courtesy of Hong Kong Tourism Board

Four clubs are set to compete: Al-Nassr, Al-Ittihad, Al-Ahli, and Al-Qadsiah. Originally slated to appear, Al-Hilal withdrew due to scheduling conflicts, with Al-Ahli stepping in to complete the lineup. The semifinals kick off with Al-Nassr facing Al-Ittihad on August 19, followed by Al-Ahli vs Al-Qadsiah on August 20. The winners will meet in the final onAugust 23.

And most, if not all, attention is currently on Cristiano Ronaldo. The five-time Ballon d’Or winner arrived in Hong Kong on August 14 with Al-Nassr to a crowd of fans braving the rain outside Regent Hong Kong. He’s expected to lead his team in the semifinal, joined by fellow stars João Félix and Jader Duran. Al-Ittihad counters with its own elite lineup, including Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante, setting the stage for a showdown between two former Real Madrid icons.

Alongside the headline acts from Al-Nassr and Al-Ittihad, fans in Hong Kong will also get a close-up look at the rising firepower of Al-Ahli and Al-Qadsiah. Al-Ahli arrives with a stacked roster featuring Riyad Mahrez, Ivan Toney, and Edouard Mendy. On the other side, Al-Qadsiah, fresh off a strong domestic campaign, boasts a mix of seasoned talent and emerging stars with former Real Madrid defender Nacho Fernandez anchors the backline.

Joax Felix and Jader Duran — Photo by Instagram/Al Nasar

Tickets are available via Klook, ranging from HK$499 to HK$2,990 depending on seating tier. With global attention on the event and Ronaldo’s presence confirmed, the Saudi Super Cup is poised to be one of Hong Kong’s most memorable sporting moments of the year.

Follow the Saudi Arabian Football Federation’s official Instagram here for more highlights to come.

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Hong Kong/ Vibe/ Artists

August 15, 2025

Enter Our Giveaway with 01 Festival to Win A Pair of Tickets for Two!

by: The Beat Asia

August 15, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

We always hear about underground raves, or dream about experiencing Berlin's techno scene one day. But what if we told you that this is your once-in-a-lifetime chance to party over all three floors of an iconic historical building and landmark of Hong Kong?

01 Festival, presented by 0159 Group with FuFu Agency, the creative powerhouse behind Shi Fu Miz, will be holding a huge underground rave festival in the historic three-story building of Murray House in Stanley on Aug. 30, 2025, from 3-11pm.

The festival will have three different stages on each floor: the 01 Festival Stage focusing on 4/4 influenced sounds; FuFu Stage highlighting groovy vibes; and 0159 x FuFu Stage oriented to UK influenced sounds.

In partnership with 01 Festival, we are giving away two pairs (four tickets in total) of Festival Tickets, valued at HK$1,000 per pair. It's the perfect opportunity to enjoy the vibes and energy of the underground music world (and you don't have to stay up all night either)!

From Aug. 19-25, head over to The Beat Hong Kong's Instagram page and follow the instructions in the post caption. The giveaway will end on Monday, Aug. 25 and two winners will be chosen on Aug. 26, so make sure to follow us and check for updates. Don't miss it!

Active since 2014, FuFu is a Hong Kong-based music agency, specializing in artist bookings, festival and event promotion, a record label, solar sound system rentals, and many more.

Under the leadership of Yueming and Yutang, 0159 is a rising Hong Kong collective and artist promoter, seeking to transform the electronic music landscape in Hong Kong.

Together, they've joined forces to present the first edition of01 Festival, bringing Hong Kong's and other highly globally accredited artists for an exclusive one-day rave.

01 Festival 2025 Stanley Murray House Sat, August 30
3:00 PM - 11:00 PM Dance through history at 01 Festival 2025, Hong Kong’s bold new electronic experience, on Aug. 30 at Stanley Murray House. Get your tickets now!

Terms & Conditions

Giveaway period: Tuesday, Aug. 19 to Monday, Aug. 25, 2025.
No purchase necessary to enter or win.
Winners will be selected randomly to ensure fairness.
The giveaway is open to Hong Kong residents only and participants must be 18 years of age or older.
In case of any disputes, The Beat Asia reserves the right of final decision.

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Hong Kong/ Vibe/ Artists

August 14, 2025

On the Other Earth: Hong Kong’s Leap into Immersive Dance Innovation

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Ravi Deepres

August 14, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

If you’ve ever wanted to feel the pulse of a dancer’s footwork without leaving your seat, Wayne McGregor’s latest creation might be your ticket.

The celebrated British choreographer has teamed up with Hong Kong Ballet, Hong Kong Baptist University(HKBU), and a roster of international artists to launch On the Other Earth, a radical immersive dance experience that premiered at the Venice Biennale Danza 2025.

Dancers on one of Hong Kong's rooftops — Courtesy of Ravi Deepres

Set inside a 360-degree panoramic screen with 26 millionpixels of visual intensity, the installation surrounds viewers with cinematic choreography, 3D animation, and spatialized soundscapes that evoke both deep space and deep ocean, making it a sensory plunge into movement, myth, and speculative futures.

Hong Kong plays a starring role in the immersive experience. Dancers from the Hong Kong Ballet corps perform alongside McGregor’s own company, with sequences filmed on the Peninsula Hotel’s helipad and other iconic city locations. “This groundbreaking collaboration brings together the best of international innovation and artistry,” said Septime Webre, Artistic Director of Hong Kong Ballet. “Our dancers bring extraordinary versatility to this fusion of ballet, contemporary dance, and cutting-edge technology.”

The installation is powered by nVis, a stereoscopic 12K LED cylindrical screen developed by Professor Jeffrey Shaw and Professor Sarah Kenderdine at HKBU’s Visualization Research Centre. Funded by the HKSAR Government’s Innovation and Technology Commission, the project exemplifies Hong Kong’s commitment to art-tech leadership.

Installation view of On the Other Earth — Courtesy of Ravi Deepres

“It will be a solid demonstration of the power of transdisciplinary innovation and knowledge transfer, one that transcends geography and culture,” said Professor Terence Lau, Interim Chief Innovation Officer at HKBU, on the installation’s global tour.

Thematically, On the Other Earth aligns with the Biennale’s “Myth Makers” focus, reimagining ancient stories through digital choreography. McGregor’s work asks whether immersive environments can rival the emotional immediacy of live performance, a question that resonates in a city increasingly invested in cultural innovation.

For Hong Kong audiences, the excitement is just beginning. The installation is slated to arrive at Tai Kwun Centre for Heritage and Arts in 2026, promising a cultural event that blends dance, design, and digital spectacle in a way the city has never seen before. As HKBU President Professor Alex Wai noted, “Showcasing Hong Kong’s homegrown performance on the world stage highlights our distinctive creative vision”.

Whether you’re a ballet diehard or a tech-curious art lover, this is one experience that invites you to step inside the story.

For more information about the production, visit Wayne McGregor’s website here and follow him on Instagram here. Stay updated with Tai Kwun's events and happenings by following them on Instagram and Facebook.

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Hong Kong/ Vibe/ Artists

August 14, 2025

K-Pop’s Metaverse Queens, aespa, are Returning to Hong Kong in 2026

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Courtesy of SM Entertainment

August 14, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

If you’ve been waiting for a reason to dust off your lightstick and scream your lungs out, this is most probably it. K-Pop’s metaverse queens, aespa, are officially heading to Hong Kong as part of their 2025–2026 “SYNK: aeXIS LINE” world tour!

aespa's Karina, Winter, Giselle, and Ningning — Instagram/ aespa

Set to take place on February 7 and 8, 2026, the concerts will light up AsiaWorld-Expo with aespa’s signature blend of futuristic visuals, razor-sharp choreography, andimmersive stage production. Fans, known as Mys, can expect a high-energy spectacle that blurs the line between digital and reality, true to aespa’s tech-forward identity.

The tour kicks off in Seoul in late August 2025 before sweeping through Bangkok on November 15 and 16, 2025, Japan, and Jakarta, eventually landing in Hong Kong for two nights of pure pop adrenaline. After their Hong Kong stop, the group will head to Macau’s Galaxy Arena on March 7 and 8, continuing their domination of Asia’s biggest stages.

aespa, made up of Karina, Winter, Giselle, and Ningning, debuted under SM Entertainment in 2020 and quickly carved out a niche with their AI-powered concept and genre-bending sound. Hits like “Next Level,” “Drama,” and “Spicy” have cemented their place as one of K-pop’s most innovative acts.

Musically, aespa blends hyperpop, EDM, and dance-pop with a futuristic edge that mirrors their digital alter egos and metaverse-inspired storytelling. Their tracks often feature layered synths, glitchy textures, and bold transitions, creating a soundscape that’s as unpredictably addictive. Whether it’s the bass-heavy swagger of “Savage” or the shimmering hooks of “Supernova,” aespa’s sonic identity is both experimental and unmistakably modern.

While ticketing details are still under wraps, fans are advised to keep a close eye on aespa’s official channels. If history is any guide, seats will vanish fast, especially after their last Hong Kong appearance in 2024 drew massive crowds from around the world.

Whether you’re a longtime MY or just curious about the future of K-pop, this is one show you won’t want to miss.

Follow aespa on Instagram here and check out SM Entertainment’s website here for updates.

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Hong Kong/ The List/ Artists

August 13, 2025

Murray Summer Opens in Stanley with Music, Wellness, & Vibrant Culture

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by One Social, Courtesy of Carnaby Fair

August 13, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

Stanley’s iconic Murray House got a full summer makeover last weekend as Carnaby Fair and Stanley Plaza have launched their month-long cultural takeover with their Murray Summer Opening Party, a few days later than planned, thanks to heavy rain showers on August 2. But all the delay did was build up the anticipation and excitement, so when the sun finally came out, so did the crowds, marking a successful milestone toward what’s to happen next.

Guests playing pickleball at pop up pickleball court at Murray Summer event held at Murray House in Stanley — One Social, Courtesy of Carnaby Fair

Guests participating in seashell charm workshop at pop-up event Murray Summer event held at Murray House in Stanley — One Social, Courtesy of Carnaby Fair

The festivities began early on the historical building's G/F, where A.M. Yoga by ikigai (held every weekend morning 9 AM–12 PM) drew a peaceful crowd eager to stretch into the day with the sea breeze at their backs.

As the morning gave way to afternoon, the space shifted into hands-on creativity with the Seashell Bag Charm workshop (12 PM–6 PM). Later, the energy turned playful with Pickleball & Mini Golf (2 PM–7 PM), offering lighthearted competition for kids and adults alike.

Outside, the celebration spilled onto the waterfront with free events like Volleyball with Frenz, Pets & Mini Games, and a Postcard Workshop turned the promenade into a lively, pet-friendly zone with drink sponsors like Young Master Brewery, ONLY Beverages, and Neon Tiger adding to the summer vibes.

DJ playing at day rave held at Murray House, Stanley for Murray Summer event — The Beat Asia

Guests at Murray Summer Opening Party at Murray House in Stanley — One Social, Courtesy of Carnaby Fair

Upstairs, the second floor turned into a sonic playground with DJs Pao Reggy, GONG!, and Bratty Deb dropping their selections of drum and bass, UKG, hip hop, grime dub, and house tracks.

The crowd, an eclectic mix of music heads, creatives, friends and family, and weekend wanderers, filled the space with movement and laughter, proving that Stanley is more than quiet strolls and cafe-hopping. Meanwhile, an additional DJ boothfacing the sea kept the energy high with breezy, sun-soaked sets that matched Stanley’s laid-back coastal vibe, inviting those enjoying a Saturday scroll around the area for a bit of dancing.

image of pop-up vinyl audio library by V Music HK featuring selection of vinyl records at Murray House, Stanley — Instagram/ V Music

image of pop-up vinyl audio library by V Music HK overlooking views of palm trees at Murray House, Stanley — Instagram/ V Music

The weekend also featured a special DJ set at the V Music Library pop-up, curated by Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), by Dr. Wong Chi-chung, one of Hong Kong’s most respected music curators and radio hosts. Known for his decades-long career as a radio DJ and his advocacy for music education, Wong’s presence added depth to the pop-up’s mission of preserving analog culture and bridging generations through sound.

The opening party set the tone for what’s to come every weekend this August. From yoga and pickleball to raves with pure underground vibes, and postcard workshops, Murray Summer is shaping up to be one of Hong Kong’s most vibrant seasonal happenings. And with the 01 Festival finale on August 31, Murray House will transform into a three-story underground rave, featuring immersive visuals and a genre-defying DJ lineup promising a full-blown underground rave.

Whether you’re dancing in daylight, crafting with seashells, playing chess with strangers, or spinning vinyl in a quiet corner, Murray Summer is shaping up to be Stanley’s most dynamic cultural offering of the season.

01 Festival recently announced the lineup for Aug 31 — Courtesy of 0159 Group

Murray Summer at Murray House is free to enter and all are welcome, while certain events require aticket! If you're looking to join the ticketed actions, be sure to secure your ticket before they sell out here.

01 Festival's First Release tickets are available for grabs now from HK$300, get your tickets a more information here.

Follow Carnaby Fair on Instagram for more details and connect with us at @thebeat.hkg for exclusive updates!

Posters of event lineup at Murray Summer August 2025 event held every weekend at Murray House in Stanley — Instagram/ Carnaby Fair

How to Get to Murray Summer

You may drive or take a taxi directly to Murray House (美利樓). There are also a few public buses that take you to Stanley:

Citybus 260: Central (Exchange Square) - Stanley Market
Citybus 6 or 6X: Central (Exchange Square) - Stanley Market
Citybus 14: Sai Wan Ho (Grand Promenade) - Stanley Fort (Gate) / Ma Hang
Citybus 973: Tsim Sha Tsui (Mody Road) - Stanley Market
Green Mini Bus 40 or 40X: Jardine's Bazaar - Stanley Village / Stanley Prison

Be sure to check the Citybus app for bus schedules and any route changes before you head over!

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Hong Kong/ The List/ Artists

August 13, 2025

M+ at Night Returns This Fall with Music, Mindfulness, and Art After Dark

by: The Beat Asia

Photo by Instagram/ M+, Museum of Visual Culture

August 13, 2025

by: The Beat Asia

When the sun sets over Victoria Harbor, M+ comes alive in a way that’s anything but ordinary.

On September 5, the museum’s popular after-hours seriesM+ at Night returns with a new edition titled "Good Times," inviting visitors to unwind, reflect, and revel in a night of music, movement, and artmaking.

Poster for M+ at Night September 2025 edition — Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

Enjoy M+ at Night with food and beverages from the venue — Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

This isn’t the first time M+ has transformed its galleries into a cultural playground. Previous editions have explored everything from Hong Kong underground and street culture to retro Cantopop and more, with performances by artists like Xiaolin, N.O.L.Y, N.Y.P.D. (南洋派對), Yeti Out and tributes to icons such as Anita Mui and Roman Tam.

The spring 2025 edition, "Self Encounters," featured identity-themed programming inspired by Cindy Sherman and Yasumasa Morimura, while "Beyond the Frame" earlier this year paid homage to Picasso's creative legacy.

The headliner of the event, Jay Fung — Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

Room 307 will perform in the new edition of M+ at Night — Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

Now, Good Times shifts the focus inward.

Inspired by the museum’s current exhibition M+ Sigg Collection: Inner Worlds, the event explores emotional expression through a curated mix of live music, wellness, and tactile creativity.

Headlining the night is Jay Fung, whose heartfelt Cantopop style blends Western influences with introspective lyricism. He’ll be joined by Room307 (Allex Chan), whose “Neo Cantopop” soundscapes evoke sci-fi romance, and SPORA, an emerging electronic duo known for cinematic textures and danceable rhythms.

Yoga instructor will partner with PUZZLEMAN for a unique session — Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

Ceramic workshop guided by artist Lee Wing Yee — Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

Visitors can also drop into a yoga-meets-LoFi session led by Taiwan’s PUZZLEMAN and yoga instructor Alba, or get hands-on with clay in a ceramic workshop guided by artist Lee Wing Yee.

Acoustic performances inspired by gallery artworks, curator-led tours, and pop-up chats with M+ Guides round out the evening’s offerings. Food and drinks will be available on-site, with discounts for members and patrons.

Night tour for the exhibitions is available at the event — Courtesy of M+, Hong Kong

Tickets are available in two tiers: early bird tickets are priced at HK$200 and can be purchased from August 4 to 24, while full-time students aged 18 and above can enjoy a discounted rate of HK$140 during the same period. Standard tickets will be available from August 25 at HK$280. All ticket holders will have exclusive access to exhibitions until 10:30 PM.

M+ at Night: Good Times promises more than just entertainment, inviting visitors to explore a transformed museum to decompress, connect, and experience contemporary visual culture in a whole new light, making this a night to remember.

For more information and tickets, visit M+ at Night’s website here, and follow West Kowloon Cultural District’s Facebook here and Instagram here.

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In Tune with DJ Chucheewa: Thailand’s Multi-Talented DJ and Music Maven

How would you describe your sound?

Why did you start Soundkoh Collective?

What inspired you to start making music and pursue DJing as a career?

What drives your motto “Music for music, music for people?"

What music genres or styles have caught your interest lately?

Is there anyone who has left a lasting mark on your journey as an Artist?

What can we expect from the upcoming seventh edition of Shi Fu Miz this year?

What’s next in store for Chucheewa and where can we hear you playing next?

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