Singapore is setting up a National Broadway Company and a group of well known local personalities, actors, directors, choreographers were bidding for the post. That was the premise of the new production by Theatre Works, directed by its Artistic Director Ong Keng Sen. This production was part of the Singapore's Esplanade Theatre on The Bay 10th Anniversary celebrations.
Individuals took turns to talk about their involvement in Singapore theatre. Even from the start, it reminded me of A Chorus Line, whereby 17 dancers fought for 8 places in a production. Here, the interview for the artistic director post was secodary - in fact no questions were asked about their desire to be one. Mostly second generation actors took on the role of actors who were being interviewed or featured in this show. Some segments were touching and good, eg on Gani Abdul Karim, Dick Lee, Michael Chiang and Koh Chieng Mun.
The musical most talked about was Beauty World, the landmark event that paved the way for more musicals to come. It was a pity that Makan Place, the first musical in Singapore and preceded Beauty World by a few months, was not mentioned. Also, by focusing on Beauty World, it gave the impression that only this musical was successful. The audience did not fully appreciate the success of the other 2, namely Chang and Eng, and The Forbidden City. At one point "Alec Tok" mentioned that he was involved in a Chinese musical "December Rain". It would be wonderful if a song could be featured and reflect the "National" Broadway element.
The first half was more meaty and the second half seemed to be in a rush. At 3 hours long, the production may have featured too many stories, some of them were not fully developed.
I attended the performance where the winner "Dick Lee" (by audience vote) was announced. Well, he would definitely be the deserving choice.
It is great that TheatreWorks finally had a chance to stage at Esplanade Theatre. For a celebratory event, this production fits well to the occassion. The audience, mostly insider in the arts community, enjoyed themselves that evening.
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