As the music began, 60 elderly participants performed at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, moving with poise and quiet elegance as they presented what they had learned from the HK Ballet x Chinachem Silver Ballet Ambassador Training Camp. Radiating confidence and vitality, they shone with a presence that was no less than that of younger performers — a powerful expression of active ageing. It is a reminder that the elderly can continue to learn new skills, stay active, and embrace life at their own pace.
Joyful Learning Beyond Age, Dancing into Active Ageing
Thrive Beyond Time: Silver Ballet Ambassador Training Camp
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Stepping into the World of BalletCo-organised by Chinachem Group and Hong Kong Ballet, the programme was themed around the iconic ballet The Sleeping Beauty, offering the elderly a series of immersive learning experiences. From mastering fundamental movements and participating in group rehearsals to crafting their own ballet accessories, each step of the process invited not only learning but also connection. Along the way, participants met like-minded individuals, forming bonds through shared moments of practice and exchange.
Here, dance became more than a skill. It became a bridge gently strengthening the connection between the elderly and the community around them.
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Building Confidence Through ChallengeFor the elderly, what appears to be simple ballet movements often comes with its own challenges. Lifting the leg, maintaining balance, and engaging core muscles all demand focus, control, and sustained practice.Some participants shared that even everyday movement became more demanding with age — memorising steps and coordinating positions was no small feat. Yet, it was precisely through these challenges that they gained a deeper appreciation of the discipline and dedication behind ballet.
With practice and mutual encouragement, their bodies gradually adapted. Movements became steadier, confidence grew, and what once felt distant began to come within reach. Ballet, often seen as refined and unattainable, gradually became something personal — an experience the elderly can truly enjoy and own.
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Moving Hearts Through DanceOn the day of the performance, the audience was filled with family and friends. As the music unfolded, some found themselves quietly moved, with emotions surfacing almost without notice. The performance may not be flawless, yet in every lifted step and focused gaze lied a deep sense of sincerity and dedication. It was this authenticity that resonates most profoundly.In that moment, active ageing was no longer an abstract concept, but something vividly presented — expressed through grace, resilience, and couraged by the elderly on stage.
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Advancing Active AgeingFollowing the programme, participants may take on new roles as teaching assistants, stepping into the community to share their experience and accompany more elderly individuals on their own journey of active ageing.
Chinachem Group will continue to collaborate with community partners to encourage participation, strengthen connections, and empower the elderly to lead fulfilling lives. Through initiatives like this, active ageing is not only promoted, but brought to life in meaningful and lasting ways.
“Active ageing means that as we grow older, we continue to actively explore, try, and learn new things every day. With age, we can in fact become even happier and experience things we never had the chance to try when we were younger.”
Lam Chiu Ying
Star Silver Ballet Ambassador
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“Ballet is very captivating—it is both elegant and full of artistry and professionalism. Different music, paired with different movements, brings out different stories.”
Mary Chan
Silver Ballet Ambassador -
“I was grateful for the opportunity to join the training camp this year. The instructors and mentors were very attentive in guiding us, which made it especially valuable for us older participants.”
Kowk Kwok Chuen and Peony Leung
Silver Ballet Ambassador
