Discover a season full of compelling narratives, immersive experiences and thought-provoking themes. From mysteries and indigenous stories to explorations of identity and musical journeys, these performances promise unforgettable theatrical experiences.
Waking Up A Generation with “tick, tick… Boom!”
Before he became world-famous for RENT, Jonathan Larson was a young composer striving to make his mark in the theatre world. As he juggles waiting tables and chasing his big break, the pressure mounts as his 30th birthday looms.
tick, tick…Boom! is an exhilarating musical masterpiece by Sight Lines Theatre that celebrates self-discovery, the challenges of adulthood, and the importance of mental wellness and resilience. Set in 1990 and featuring a score that redefined a genre, this musical is a must-see.
Staged at KC Arts Theatre from 5 – 14 July 2024.
“Air” Brings Indigenous Voices to the Forefront
Drama Box presents a powerful verbatim play Air about the indigenous Orang Seletar and the role it plays in Singapore. Directed by Adib Kosnan and Kok Heng Leun, it explores themes of heritage, resilience and identity.
First staged in 2019 as part of the double bill Tanah•Air: A Play in Two Parts, this new iteration of Air further develops the themes presented in the original staging. Acclaimed playwright Zulfadli Rashid has woven new and old materials into a tapestry of stories, resulting in an emotionally potent play that confronts issues of land, dispossession, and community.
Staged at Esplanade Waterfront Theatre from 12 – 14 July 2024.
“Disgraced”: A Provocative Look at Identity and Belief
Ayad Akhtar’s Pulitzer Prize-winning play takes center stage with the Singapore Theatre Company, examining race, religion, and class in a post-9/11 world.
The play is written by Ayad Akhtar, renowned for his ability to craft engaging and thought-provoking narratives. “Disgraced” has been praised as “terrific, turbulent, with fresh currents of dramatic electricity” by The New York Times and described as “entertaining and thought-provoking” by USA Today.
“Disgraced” offers a rare and honest examination of how we define ourselves and our beliefs in the modern world. It is a compelling narrative that takes audiences on an emotional journey, addressing critical issues of our time with nuance and sensitivity.
Staged at KC Arts Centre from 13 – 14 August 2024.
Titoudao’s 30th Stage Anniversary Celebration
Titoudao is the first and the most successful cross-media creation in Singapore’s performing arts history, boasting seven re-stagings. Toy Factory Productions’ staging this July continues to enchant audiences with its rich cultural storytelling and emotional depth. This iconic production recounts the life story of Mdm Oon Ah Chiam, a dedicated Wayang (Chinese Street Opera) practitioner, set against the backdrop of Singapore’s rapid development. Guaranteed to delight the young and old.
Staged at Victoria Concert Hall from 5 – 28 July.
Wild Rice Presents “Don’t Call Him Mari Kita”
Experience the life and legacy of Zubir Said, the composer of Singapore’s national anthem, in a joyous, moving, and inspiring tribute. Julian Wong, a renowned music director, leads the celebration with performances of Zubir Said’s beloved classics and rare musical gems.
The production, directed by Cultural Medallion winner Ivan Heng of Wild Rice Theatre, features archival footage, stunning period costumes, and the glamour of a 1960s television variety show. Following a sold-out run in 2022, this limited final season invites you to discover the man behind the melody of “Majulah Singapura” and appreciate his profound impact on Singaporean music.
Staged at Wild Rice Funan from 5 – 25 August 2024.
“Phinny & Wally”: Nine Years Theatre’s First Production for Children
This interactive Mandarin play emphasizes the importance of relationships, both with our friends and family and with the environment around us. It highlights the significance of friendships and environmental stewardship, such as recycling and ocean pollution, while providing a fun and educational experience for families.
With over a decade of successful productions for adult audiences, Nine Years Theatre is now expanding into Theatre For Young Audiences. This move aims to cultivate future audiences for Singapore Chinese theatre, exposing children to high-quality Mandarin performances in an engaging way, outside of the classroom.
Staged at Drama Centre Black Box (National Library) from 27 July – 4 August 2024.
“The Invisible Pangolin”: A Theatre Experience for Young Minds
Gateway Theatre invites families to explore themes of friendship, through the interactive play The Invisible Pangolin.
The play encourages empathy and understanding, teaching young viewers about the importance of respecting personal boundaries, and the art of inclusivity. Designed for children aged 5 to 8, it is set against the backdrop of the Sunda Pangolin’s shy and solitary nature, the performance offers a heart-warming narrative that resonates with introverts and celebrates the beauty of being different.
Staged at Black Box Gateway Theatre from 23 – 31 July 2024.
Lotus Root Support Group: A Raw and Relatable Journey Through Chronic Illness and Friendship
Theatre-makers Miriam Cheong and Shannen Tan bring their personal experiences to the stage in Lotus Root Support Group, a candid exploration of living with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Through humor, honesty, and heartfelt storytelling, the play navigates the complexities of chronic illness, womanhood, and the bonds that hold us together—even when they’re tested.
Get your tickets from 28 August to 1 September 2024, here.
Featured image: Miss Saigon from Base Entertainment Asia.
