A twist on tradition
The advent of artificial intelligence has been perceived as the end of an era for many industries—but for Cantonese opera, it may be the herald for a revival. Tatler speaks to a rising crop of artists who weigh in on whether the use of modern technology is the best way to preserve the traditional art.
For other stories on inspiring individuals who are revising traditions without denaturing their core principles, meet Kodo Nishimura, a Buddhist monk who is also a proud and outspoken LGBTQ+ activist; chefs behind Michelin-starred restaurants who are redefining Asian cuisine across the region; and Funa Nakayama and other female skaters who are contributing to the rise of skateboarding in Asia.
Other newsletter highlights this week:
- We speak to music legend and human rights activist Angélique Kidjo ahead of her Hong Kong performance.
- Should couples have access to each other’s personal devices? Here is what two wellbeing leaders have to say.
- As this week offers us luck and sparks of clarity, Tatler’s astrologer Casey Chan explains what it means for each star sign.
- A look inside the homes of the literary legends that are as uniquely diverse as their written works
Dear Tatler readers, everything—including your favourite traditions—can live on with enough passion and creativity. Until next time, have a wonderful Friday and a great weekend ahead!
Salomé Grouard
Deputy Digital Editor
LIFESTYLE
An African music icon, five-time Grammy winner and activist
Angélique Kidjo celebrates Mother Nature (Photo: courtesy of Ojoz)
Seven years after her last visit, music legend Angélique Kidjo is returning to Hong Kong to perform as part of the Hong Kong Arts Festival.
Ahead of her performance tonight and tomorrow, we speak to the award-winning artist, human’s rights activist, and Unicef Goodwill Ambassador about her latest album, Mother Nature, and more.
MORE FROM LIFESTYLE
We explore the rise of skateboarding in Asia, with a special focus on women in the male-dominated skateboarding world.
As this week offers us luck and sparks of clarity, Tatler’s astrologer Casey Chan explains what it means for each star sign.
Dallas Liu from Netflix’s remake of Avatar: The Last Airbender, on growing Asian representation in Hollywood.
POWER & PURPOSE
Meet the monk in heels championing self-acceptance
Kodo Nishimura is a Japanese monk, make-up artist and advocate for LGBTQ+ rights (Photo: Masaki Sato)
In this week’s Crazy Smart Asia podcast episode by Gen.T, the Japanese author, Buddhist monk, make-up artist and LGBTQ+ activist opens up about growing up queer in a temple and fortifying himself to empower others.
Nishimura reflects on feeling like the odd one out, the encouraging words from his mother that drove him to find his voice and how he found the sweet spot between his religion and queerness.
MORE FROM POWER & PURPOSE
From established names to ones to watch, here are the sportswomen lighting up the sports scene in Asia right now.
From Michelin-starred fine dining experiences to wildly popular chain concepts, these geniuses are creating bold new ways to enjoy food.
Should couples have access to each other’s personal devices? Two wellbeing experts go head-to-head in this month’s great debate.
STYLE
Franck Muller’s CEO on the importance of the Asian market
Nicholas Rudaz, CEO of Franck Muller
Nicholas Rudaz, the CEO of Franck Muller, was recently in Kuala Lumpur to celebrate the grand opening of the Franck Muller boutique—the largest in Asia.
Tatler GMT sat down with him for five burning questions before the event.
MORE FROM STYLE
Want to dress like your favourite fellow Piscean? Here is how to enhance your personal style based on the personality traits of a Pisces.
Why you should visit the Musée Atelier Audemars Piguet, where the past, present, and future co-mingle in illuminating fashion.
Five lingerie brands that offer support, style and a boost of confidence for the empowered woman you are.
HOMES
Experience the charm of Seoul’s architecture and hidden gems
The entrance to Ayu Space is located next to a restored ‘70s ‘hanok’, mediated by a sculptural tree (Photo: Sergio Pirrone)
In his new book Byoung Cho: My Life as an Architect in Seoul, Korean architect Byoung Cho shares thoughts on the city’s past, present and future.
There are also destination tips for design buffs, dispensed through his multifaceted viewpoint as a Seoul resident, an architect, and a flâneur in his beloved city.
MORE FROM HOMES
Inside these residences that weren’t just homes to cherished authors—but birthplaces of classic tales that transcend time.
After falling in love with Sri Lanka, interior designer Chlöe Elkerton built her dream home in its countryside.
Soften your abode with these comforting pieces, from sumptuous dining chairs and sofas to luxuriously tactile décor accents.
DINING
Inside the mind of a culinary icon
Danny Yip of The Chairman champions Cantonese cuisine on the global stage
In an exclusive interview with Tatler, Danny Yip shares insights into the journey of The Chairman.
He opens up about the importance of a stable team, mental well-being, and his vision for the future of Hong Kong’s culinary scene.
MORE FROM DINING
How these Thai hotels in Kyoto and Osaka are carving out different visions of Thai cuisine for the Japanese palate.
Inside Legle Porcelain, the brand behind the bespoke tableware created for top restaurants across the globe.
Besides Niseko’s famous powdered snow, the destination also has gastronomical offerings you don’t want to miss.
AROUND ASIA
SINGAPORE | We ask Singapore’s top chefs to share where they go to satisfy their nasi padang cravings.
PHILIPPINES | Meet Drs Vicki Belo and Hayden Kho—devoted parents, doctors to the stars, and the force behind a global beauty empire.
MALAYSIA | Here are the best Indian and Sri Lankan restaurants in Malaysia.
