This August, why not go to the sensational Mamma Mia! concert or see great Beethoven performances, visit the food expo and tea fair, enjoy comedians and so much more besides.

Mamma Mia!

Based on the uplifting soundtrack of Swedish superstars Abba, this magnificent musical joyously returns to Hong Kong. A lavish, fun-filled extravaganza, Mamma Mia! is guaranteed to get the audience swaying in the aisles as one brilliant hit follows another – from Dancing Queen to Take a Chance on Me, these are songs for the ages that will create an intoxicating party vibe on a night at the theatre. The story revolves around Sophie’s desire to find her birth father before she marries, but it is the unforgettable music that takes centre stage.

When: Until 15 Aug

Where: HKAPA Lyric Theatre

How much: From $680

For more information: mamma-mia.com

The Other Side of Beethoven

Catch the maestro’s Piano Concerto No.3 and excerpts from his symphonies as his magnificent body of work is performed by the Hong Kong Sinfonietta, one of the city’s flagship orchestras, which has garnered a reputation for using novel ways to bring great music to the community. This performance – part of the annual International Arts Carnival – sheds light on Beethoven’s troubled life as his hearing and mental state declined and how this turmoil was somehow channelled into groundbreaking compositions. Jason Lai conducts and Colleen Lee is on piano.

When: 3, 4 Aug

Where: Tuen Mun Town Hall

How much: From $150

For more information: hkiac.gov.hk

Monster

Performed in Cantonese by dedicated children’s troupe POP Theatre, this play delves into societal issues in wartime America. Will student Ushimaru from an impoverished background be able to get hold of a clean white shirt in time for the graduation photo before his school closes prematurely in 1942? Monster is staged as part of the International Arts Carnival, a summer extravaganza which sees both local and international performers take centre stage, and meet-the-artist sessions will be held on 3 and 10 August.

When: 3, 4, 10 & 11 Aug

Where: Tuen Mun Town Hall

How much: From $280

For more information: hkiac.gov.hk

Atlético Madrid

With the new football season looming, the big European teams travel abroad to prepare for exertions ahead. Spanish giants Atlético Madrid bring their star-studded team to Hong Kong to pit their sublime skills against local side Kitchee in what is sure to be a memorable occasion. Manager Diego Simeone has no shortage of top players at his disposal, and though only a friendly game, a competitive spirit should prevail. 

When: 7 Aug

Where: Hong Kong Stadium

How much: From $420

For more information: kitchee.com

Kenny Sebastian

The irrepressible stand-up comedian is back in town with his own unique blend of irreverent wit and piercing humour that never fails to leave the audience in fits of hysterics, especially when he reverts to his native Hindi. Armed with a plethora of meaningful anecdotes, Kenny Sebastian continues his journey of discovery with the ‘Professor of Tomfoolery’ show, now revised with music. The performance is filled with personal reminisces that will make you think about your own journey through the trials and tribulations of life.

When: 9 Aug

Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

How much: From $280

For more information: hkcec.com

International Tea Fair

Immerse yourself in tea culture in this tea and teaware festival that runs concurrently with the Food Expo. It is a unique opportunity for those in the tea trade to engage in international tasting sessions, discussion topics and various contests including the Hong Kong International Tea Competition, which judges a variety of tea categories, from green and oolong to pu’er. The tea-drinking public is welcome to attend the final day of the fair, on 18 August.

When: 15-18 Aug

Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

How much: Entrance fee

For more information: hktdc.com

Food Expo

This annual gathering of the best the world of food has to offer is one of the most anticipated events on Hong Kong’s food and beverage calendar. Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, it is a chance for players in the industry to forge business relationships and for eager foodies to try a range of products to satisfy their taste buds. Pavilions from scores of nations offer sourcing and sampling flavours of origin in delicious endeavours to glean the essence of global gastronomy.

When: 15-19 Aug

Where: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre

How much: Entrance Fee

For more information: hktdc.com

Lacrosse World Championship

The 2024 World Lacrosse Women’s U20 Championship takes place in Asia for the first time since the competition was inaugurated in 1995. Top teams including the US, Canada, Australia, England and Japan will fling the ball towards goal in a fast and furious attempt to clinch silverware. The atmosphere is bound to be special in a stadium which regularly plays host to soccer matches.

When: 15-24 Aug

Where: Mongkok Stadium

How much: Various prices

For more information: worldlacrosse.sport/events/ 

Sasha Alex Sloan

As part of her ‘Me Again’ tour of Asia, the American singer-songwriter sensation comes to Hong Kong to perform some of the best and most enduring hits from her indie-pop repertoire. Sasha Alex Sloan has two albums to her name and a busy summer schedule, as she also takes in Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Bangkok, Jakarta, Tokyo, Taipei and Kaohsiung. No doubt playing to packed audiences throughout, she ends her tour in Seoul at the start of September.

When: 21 Aug

Where: MacPherson Stadium

How much: From $699

For more information: macstadiumhkpa.com