Tobacco’s been consumed in China, mostly in pipes, since the 16th century. During the Qing dynasty though, possessing or smoking tobacco was punishable by death. But for those who still craved nicotine, snuff, or powdered tobacco, claimed to be a remedy for various illnesses, was available. Like other medicines, it was carried in small bottles: “snuff bottles”. There were often decorated, and that is a unique art form that continues to inspire some contemporary artists.

This month, the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts is presenting programmes produced by their students from the School of Dance and School of Drama.
One of the drama productions taking place this week is “A Midsummer Night’s Drunk,” a Cantonese adaptation of Shakespeare's somewhat similarly named classic.

Rachel Sutton is a singer-songwriter and actor from London. Her debut album in 2020, “A Million Conversations”, consisted of original compositions and covers. Her second is already in the pipeline. This week she’s in Hong Kong to showcase her original work, some classics from the American songbook, and new songs from her upcoming album. And she’s here to give us a sneak peak.