The Nature of Why by Paraorchestra
Orchestrating the extraordinary – A live show that melds genres, re-imagines form and explodes boundaries
Asia Premiere
Playfully fusing theatre, live orchestral music and contemporary dance, The Nature of Why by the award-winning Paraorchestra invites the audience to be part of a fully inclusive, immersive spectacle.
In this unique, intimate experiential piece, directed by world-renowned British conductor and Artistic Director of Paraorchestra Charles Hazlewood and acclaimed Australian choreographer Caroline Bowditch, musicians and dancers of the award-winning Paraorchestra ensemble weave among the audience to a cinematic live score composed by Will Gregory of Goldfrapp.
Taking inspiration from the boundless curiosity of Nobel prize-winning theoretical physicist Richard Feynman and his search for meaning in the world, The Nature of Why is an uplifting, thought-provoking work that experiments with the nature of performance. As unexpected interactions and moments of delight pop up across the gently-lit set, performers, musicians and audience become one in a sonic choose-your-own-adventure that surprises at every turn.
Paraorchestra are the world’s first professional orchestra of disabled and non-disabled musicians and made their debut at the Closing Ceremony of the 2012 London Paralympics. In 2025, they were the winners of the Royal Philharmonic Society's “Ensemble Award”.
Paraorchestra
Based in Bristol, UK, Paraorchestra is a fearless collective of disabled and non-disabled musicians. Together, they present groundbreaking musical experiences and push the boundaries of music-making to create art with passion and purpose.
Under the bold leadership of Artistic Director Charles Hazlewood, the diverse ensemble made their debut at the Closing Ceremony of the 2012 London Paralympics. Their performances are a fusion of emotion, innovation and intrepid artistry. Beyond the stage, Paraorchestra empowers its musicians. Through a focus on artist development, they help build professional careers, nurture confidence, and foster collaboration, inspiring an ambition and excellence that echoes with their artistic programme.
Charles Hazlewood
Charles Hazlewood is the artistic director of Paraorchestra, which he founded in 2012. While his conducting career includes many of the world’s most prestigious classical orchestras, he is also a trailblazer dedicated to creating ambitious, genre-busting works that upend orchestral orthodoxies. A recent highlight was conducting the orchestra’s debut at the 2024 BBC Proms.
Hazlewood's wide-ranging work includes landmark music films for the BBC, multiple radio awards, and over 200 world premieres. He also founded an award-winning South African opera company Dimpho Di Kopane, whose film won the Golden Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. A three-time TED speaker and a Sky Arts Ambassador for music, his outstanding contribution to the UK’s musical life was recently honoured by leading charity Making Music. He was awarded an honorary doctorate in social inclusion by Bath Spa University in 2025.
Caroline Bowditch
Caroline Bowditch is a proudly disabled queer woman and a distinguished leader in the arts and culture sector. She is globally recognised for her groundbreaking contributions to inclusive arts practices and dance advocacy. With over 15 years of experience, Caroline has carved a unique niche in the industry by combining her artistic vision with a passionate commitment to accessibility and diversity.
Her career highlights include her former position as the CEO of Arts Access Victoria, where she significantly expanded the organisation's reach and impact. Caroline's artistic endeavors are equally impressive, featuring award-winning collaborations and commissions, such as "The Nature of Why" with the British Paraorchestra and "Falling in Love with Frida." Her work has been showcased at renowned venues and festivals internationally, including the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and with renowned companies like Candoco Dance Company and Skåne Dansteater in Sweden.
Beyond her artistic practice, Caroline is a sought-after consultant and advisor, including working with National Cultural Policy development in Australia and facilitating international arts initiatives. Her commitment to inclusivity is evident in her current board positions with Creative Australia, Arts Centre Melbourne, Theatre Network Australia and Theatre Works, where she continues to shape the future of the arts sector.
Will Gregory
Will Gregory is an acclaimed multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer, and is one half of electro-pop duo Goldfrapp, who have released seven albums since forming in 1999. In 2011, Gregory's first opera, Piccard in Space, premiered at the Queen Elizabeth Hall, London. Gregory also writes and tours with his award-winning Moog Ensemble.
Purchase No Limits programme tickets worth HK$500 or more in a single transaction via URBTIX to receive one No Limits Inclusive Plush Toy Keychain Redemption Coupon upon ticket collection. Details Here.
2 December 2025, 10am – 23 December 2025, 11:59pm
20% discount on all full-price tickets.
Limited quota available.
From 2 December 2025, 10am
Half-price tickets are available for fulltime students, people with disabilities and a companion and Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) recipients. Concessionary ticket holders must produce evidence of their identity upon admission.
From 24 December 2025, 00:00am
10% discount on each purchase of 4–9 full-price tickets (one programme)
20% discount on each purchase of 10 or more full-price tickets (one programme)
From 24 December 2025, 00:00am
10% discount on each purchase of 2–3 full-price tickets (multiple programmes)
20% discount on each purchase of 4 or more full-price tickets (multiple programmes)
"The Nature of Why" was commissioned and supported by Unlimited and premiered at Mayfest, Bristol 2018.