HONG KONG – A highly anticipated Hong Kong stage play, Collecting Debts in the Gobi Desert, has expanded its run to 19 performances after strong early demand, its lead cast announced on Wednesday. Actors Sam Tsang, Hui Yin, So Chi-ho, and Leung Ho-pong appeared at a press conference to unveil the extended schedule, sharing behind-the-scenes insights into the production’s intense rehearsals and their own career aspirations.
The play, which blends dark comedy with dramatic tension, follows a debt collector navigating the surreal landscape of the Gobi Desert. Tsang revealed that several scenes pose formidable acting challenges. “I describe it as a classic dialogue from the film Cold War,” he said, referring to the 2012 Hong Kong crime thriller known for its taut confrontations. “The most insane part is having up to five actors performing in sync. Even during the read-through, it felt extremely difficult.”
A self-proclaimed “half-beginner” in stage acting, Tsang admitted to pre-show anxiety that has manifested in nightmares. He added that the cast’s commitment to the project has been unwavering, despite the demanding script.
Beyond the stage, Tsang addressed the fate of the popular variety show Battle of the Gods (known locally as Jiao Zhan). The comedian confirmed that all six members remain eager to film a new season and have formally petitioned ViuTV’s senior management, including executive Kam Kwong-shing. However, he dampened hopes for a 2024 return. “We all want to film a new season all the time, but it won’t happen this year. We have to wait until next year, and we hope to bring good news then,” Tsang said. He also noted he recently messaged actress Michelle Wai, who was injured while filming a drama, and expressed relief at her steady recovery. “Since becoming a father, I’m more afraid of dying, so I’m extra careful during shoots,” he added.
For first-time stage actors Hui Yin and So Chi-ho, the production marks a significant career milestone. Hui recalled his only prior stage experience—a 10-minute short play during the 10th-anniversary show of online comedy group Trial & Error—which required a full month of rehearsal. “Now, I finally have the chance to truly perform in a stage play,” he said. “We rehearse for over a month, drilling until we get it right.” So disclosed that the play’s promotional poster takes visual inspiration from Leslie Cheung’s iconic work Big Heat, with the hope that ticket sales will mirror that legendary artist’s success.
So, who has long aspired to perform on stage, credited actors Yau Hok-sau and Locker Lam for inspiring him. “I heard them say that an actor only truly understands acting after doing stage plays,” he explained. While both Hui and So said they have no immediate plans to move into behind-the-scenes roles, So hinted at future aspirations. “I write regularly, like in a diary. I hope some of that material can eventually be presented to the public,” he said.
Broader Impact:
The expansion of Collecting Debts in the Gobi Desert underscores a resilient appetite for live theater in Hong Kong, even as the entertainment industry navigates shifting audience habits. For its cast, the production serves as both a proving ground for dramatic craft and a bridge to potential new creative avenues. The future of Battle of the Gods remains uncertain, but the persistent lobbying by its stars suggests that the show—beloved for its irreverent humor and camaraderie—may yet find a way back to screens.
