By Crystal Tsang
Joint Hall Mass Dance, which is one of the high-profile annual events in the University of Hong Kong, was held on April 10th at Happy Park this year.
Thousands of people gathered to watch the show. Thirteen halls’ dancing teams, including Suen Chi Sun Hall, Ho Tung Hall, Simon K. Y. Lee Hall, R. C. Lee Hall, St. John’s College, Lee Shau Kee Hall, Lee Chi Hung Hall, Swire Hall, Star Hall, Morrison Hall, Hysan Hall, Wei Lun Hall and University Hall, performed in this event.
However, under the pressure of the school authority, there are concerns that this year might be the last year that the Joint Hall Mass Dance can be held. While HKU is the only university in Hong Kong organizing this event, and it has been revived for only two years after the Covid-19 pandemic, the limitations in running the event have been exaggerated.
“The school authority complained about the mass dance event overran last year. They have warned us that the event next year’s event might be canceled if this year doesn’t end on time,” said Chou Ho Yin, the dancing team captain of Simon K.Y Lee Hall.
“The performing space is narrower, as well as the distance between performers and audience is wider compared to previous years. The authority explained these changes are meant to ensure the safety of both sides and create a more comfortable space, They have even recruited security guards to control the number of people and ensure performers and audience are seated accordingly,” he added.
When asked about his thoughts on this year’s event, Chou said, “It’s nonsense that the school authority is intervening in the event which was originally operated only by students. I think the atmosphere of this year’s mass dance event is not as good as that of previous years, mainly due to the security controls.”
Chong Mei Ping, a second-year student studying at the City University of Hong Kong, had a different thought, “It’s my first time watching this kind of event. I’m overwhelmed by the atmosphere here.”
“The possibility of running this event is quite small. Of course I would feel sad if this long-lasting tradition will be disappeared in HKU,” Chou expressed his feelings regarding the future of the mass dance event.
“It would be a pity if the mass dance event could not be held anymore, as HKU would lose one of its great tradition.” said Chong, who held a similar view.
While students expressed their disappointment regarding the uncentain future of the Mass Dance event, it remains unknown if the event will be held next year.