Hong Kong superstar Sammi Cheng recently collaborated with world-ranked wheelchair dancer Matthew Yu in a poignant performance for the “No Limits” annual arts initiative, using their shared movement to advocate for disability inclusion and acceptance. The brief yet emotionally resonant dance, captured in a widely shared online video, showcases a powerful message about transcending physical barriers, driven by Cheng’s extensive preparation and deep personal commitment to the cause, which honors her late father who was a wheelchair user.
The unique duet highlights the core values of “No Limits,” an annual arts program co-presented by the Hong Kong Arts Festival and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, with support from the Arts with the Disabled Association Hong Kong. The initiative aims to foster an accessible and inclusive environment through the arts, featuring both local and international artists with varying abilities across music, dance, film, and theatre.
Deep Commitment Behind the Duet
The performance paired Cheng, a veteran of cinema and music, with Yu, who holds a third-place world ranking in wheelchair dancing. The resulting video clip, spanning about 33 seconds, has captivated audiences, not just for the artistry but for the sincerity palpable in every movement.
Cheng revealed on social media that upon receiving the invitation, she was deeply moved, sharing that her personal connection—her own father was a wheelchair user—fueled her dedication. Despite the short length of the piece, Cheng invested two full days in dedicated, self-funded rehearsals with backing dancers and her choreographer, Alan Mak, who offered enthusiastic support during the process. Both Cheng and Yu approached the final shoot with meticulous professionalism, recording multiple takes to ensure their performance reached its emotional and technical peak.
This intensive preparation underscored Cheng’s determination to convey the genuine meaning of “No Limits” for individuals with disabilities.
A Powerful Expression of Inclusion
The choreography itself was a collaborative effort, created by Wang Chi-sing of the Hong Kong Dance Company and Eric Lok Tin-kei of the Hong Kong Wheelchair Dance Sport Association, alongside assistance from Cheng’s choreographer.
Reflecting on the experience, Cheng emphasized that true artistic impact often comes not from technical perfection, but from the raw emotion, courage, and belief conveyed. “The most moving dance doesn’t necessarily require flawless steps, but rather sincerity, courage, and conviction,” she stated.
She lauded her partner, Matthew Yu, observing: “Through him, I see a power that surpasses physical limitations. Every movement, even a fleeting glance, is an expression, a connection, an imagination.”
This philosophy underpins the initiative’s wider advocacy. Inclusion, for Cheng, is more than a theoretical concept. It is a fundamental “attitude toward life.” She urged the public to join in using the arts to transmit messages of hope and strength under the banner of #Nolimitsdance.
The success of the routine demonstrates the potential of collaborative arts to challenge preconceived notions about ability. By platforming artists like Yu and offering comprehensive accessibility services, the “No Limits” program is actively building a universally accessible cultural landscape in Hong Kong. This performance not only celebrated art but offered a heartfelt tribute to Cheng’s father, solidifying the emotional resonance and public impact of the project.
The engagement generated online suggests a growing appetite for inclusive narratives, encouraging more organizations to prioritize accessibility and collaboration across all layers of artistic output.
