Rising Hong Kong performer Windy Zhan (詹天文) has successfully concluded a two-night charitable run of the musical “Our Youth Diary,” turning a recent public misstep into a powerful display of community support. All proceeds from the performances were dedicated to families affected by the recent, devastating fire at Wang Lok Estate in Tai Po, offering tangible aid following an earlier controversy over her choice of words.
The benefit performances, held on the evenings of December 18th and 19th, were organized as a rapid response initiative to help residents displaced and impacted by the tragedy. Zhan, who previously faced public scrutiny after an “inarticulate” message of goodwill to the victims—for which she quickly issued an apology explaining she spoke out of nervousness—used the stage as a platform to demonstrate genuine compassion and commitment.
Theatre Community Rallies for Tai Po Residents
The charity effort was spearheaded by “The Splendid Theatre,” or “Ba-za-bo E-pung” (爆炸戲棚), whose entire cast and crew immediately offered their support. Upon learning of the plan, Zhan agreed without hesitation, aiming to galvanize audience generosity and ensure assistance reached those most in need.
Crucially, the organizers emphasized that every ticket sale from both shows was channeled directly to the Wang Lok Estate Assistance Fund in Tai Po, with absolutely no deductions for staging costs. The Splendid Theatre absorbed all administrative and venue expenses, and every participating actor and technical staff member volunteered their time and expertise without pay.
Founder of The Splendid Theatre, Sunny Chan, stated that the group’s primary goal was to use the healing power of performing arts to provide solace and practical assistance to the affected families. “We hope to use the stage to comfort hearts and contribute whatever small amount we can to help those who have suffered,” Chan remarked.
Beyond Windy Zhan, the charity musical featured over 20 seasoned stage veterans, including veteran actress Kwan Po-wai (關寶慧) and actor Tam Wing-ho. Kwan Po-wai reflected on the initiative, emphasizing that using one’s professional skills to directly raise funds for disaster relief is “the most direct way for artists to transmit positive energy.”
Action Replaces Words
The commitment by Zhan and the wider theatre community highlights an effective model for celebrity advocacy: leveraging visibility and talent to achieve concrete charitable outcomes. After the initial misunderstanding surrounding her public statement, the focused, practical nature of the two-night run served as a sincere, action-based affirmation of her desire to help.
The collective effort underscored the robust philanthropic spirit within the arts sector, providing critical resources as the affected families look toward rebuilding their lives following the severe fire.
Separately, as the year closes and major industry awards ceremonies approach, Zhan took a moment to appeal to her fans. She urged her supporters to actively vote in upcoming award nominations, expressing her ambition to achieve recognition this season as a gesture of gratitude for the unwavering support she receives from her company and fanbase.
The success of the benefit concert, however, is measured not just in ticket sales, but in the immediate, undivided distribution of aid to local families grappling with a sudden crisis, proving that tangible support speaks louder than mere promises.
