This November, Intercultural Theatre Institute (ITI) presents Fall & The Music Lovers — A Double Bill, in collaboration with Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, directed by award-winning Australian director, Aarne Neeme, and performed by the ITI graduating Class of 2023, comprising Abinaya Jothi, Cheng Kam Yiu (Yolanda), Choy Chee Yew, Mika Oskarson Kindstrand, and Swathilakshmi Perumal.

The ITI Professional Diploma in Intercultural Theatre (Acting) is a three-year programme that follows a conservatory-style model, where actor-students train intensively for two years before embarking on two public productions in their final year as part of the curriculum. Fall & The Music Lovers — A Double Bill will be the second publicly presented production after the recently concluded The Chair.

Featuring two captivating plays, Fall and The Music Lovers, the double-bill is curated to provide each actor equal opportunity to showcase their diverse acting abilities. With a cast of four women and one man, the challenge of ensuring balanced roles was met with two distinct plays that not only highlight the range of the actors’ abilities but also offer a balance in parts.

The powerful play Fall explores the theme of loss within a family dealing with an impending tragedy. This thought-provoking piece delves into past events and future prospects, prompting a reflection on the meaning of life, both on a personal and community level. The Music Lovers follows with a delightful tale of mistaken identities that culminates in an amicable resolution. This lighthearted play tests the students’ physical skills, creating a dynamic and energetic experience for the audience.

Director Aarne Neeme skillfully guides the actors and encourages them to embrace different acting styles unique to each play. Fall requires a more internal approach, delving deep into emotional depth, while The Music Lovers calls for an external and physical portrayal. This juxtaposition of styles presents a challenge that the actors eagerly embrace. Fall captivates with its intimacy from when the curtain rises, focusing on stillness and emotional depth. Conversely, The Music Lovers opens up the stage, allowing for a choreography of movement that adds an exciting dimension to the production.

“The tragedy of Fall invites compassion for suffering and fear of fate, while the farce of The Music Lovers encourages laughter at the vagaries of life, celebrating its remarkable continuance,” says Aarne Neeme. “Life’s Ups and Downs” perfectly encapsulates the essence of this double bill, providing a theatre experience that resonates with the audience, and a showcase of the incredible talents on display.

Fall & The Music Lovers — A Double Bill plays from 9th to 11th November 2023 at the Esplanade Theatre Studio. Tickets available here