A beam of light
Musical on Charles Kao’s life celebrates power of love and spirit of innovation
19 November 2025
HighLights – The Memories of Charles Kao premiered on 15 November at the East Kowloon Cultural Centre (EKCC), Hong Kong’s newest cultural landmark that bridges art and technology.
The musical pays tribute to the life and achievements of Professor Charles K. Kao, former Vice-Chancellor and President of CUHK, recipient of the 2009 Nobel Prize in Physics, and the celebrated “Father of Fibre Optics”. The production touches the audience with the perseverance and selfless devotion that defined the scientist’s extraordinary journey.
The production, supported by CUHK and commissioned and co-produced by EKCC, is written, directed and produced by CUHK alumna Erica Li Man. Together with acclaimed arranger Johnny Yim, she composed 20 original songs that combine cutting-edge multimedia art and technology to transform Professor Kao’s memories and emotions into a symphony of light and sound.
The musical not only highlights Professor Kao’s tireless pursuit of knowledge but also delicately portrays his tender roles as a husband and father. The love story between Professor Kao and his wife, Gwen, stands as a touching centrepiece, touching the audience with their everlasting bond that weathered the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.
In support, CUHK Council Chairman Professor John Chai Yat-chiu and Vice-Chancellor Professor Dennis Lo Yuk-ming joined the evening to pay tribute to the great scientist.
Alongside the show, an exhibition is staged at the atrium of EKCC, jointly presented by CUHK, the EKCC and The Charles K. Kao Foundation for Alzheimer’s Disease. From now until 5 December, the exhibition features Professor Kao’s Nobel Prize medal and certificate awarded in 2009, as well as selection of his precious paintings created during his fight against illness, showcasing his optimism, resilience, and love for life.
*Musical photos courtesy of EKCC+ and Super Keen, production team of HighLights — The Memories of Charles Kao
