Preview: Fried Rice Paradise – The Makan Party by Singapore Repertory Theatre

Following the sold-out success of Por Por’s Big Fat Surprise Wedding in 2023 and 2024, Singapore Repertory Theatre is back with another exciting dinner theatre experience – and this time, it’s dishing out a full-flavoured battle of the wok. Fried Rice Paradise – The Makan Party invites audiences to tuck into an evening of laughter, family love, and legendary local flavours.

At the heart of this immersive production is a culinary face-off between two sisters vying to inherit their mother, Bee Lean’s iconic Fried Rice Paradise restaurant. As the drama unfolds and dishes are served, audience members will play judge, voting for the sister that they think deserves to inherit the crown. The production promises a feel-good night out. Starring Serene Chen, Ching Shu Yi, Natalie Yeap, Shrey Bhargava, Rafaat Haji Hamzah and Audrey Luo and featuring beloved hits from Singaporean icon Dick Lee, including Bunga Sayang and Mustapha, the show adds a nostalgic musical kick to the spicy drama.

Audiences will also enjoy a four-course meal of local favourites, with each dish telling a story that celebrates Singapore’s rich culinary heritage. These will comprise an appetiser of Timeless Satay (Marinated Chicken, Cucumber, Red Onion, Rice, Satay Sauce), a Laksa Broth (Prawns, Scallops, Fish Noodles, Bean Curd, Bean Sprout), Contrast Sambal Fried Rice *Pearl Rice, Egg, Scallop, Tiger Prawns, Crab Meat), and Evolutionary Onde-Onde (Gula Melaka) for dessert.

The experience takes place in the newly renovated Merchant Court Ballroom at Paradox Singapore. With its sophisticated ambiance and strong connection to Singaporean culture and hospitality, the venue provides an ideal setting for the evening.

Guests can look forward to a memorable night filled with exceptional food, engaging storytelling, and vibrant entertainment in a space that reflects the true spirit of the city. “After two sold-out runs of Por Por’s Big Fat Surprise Wedding, we’re thrilled to bring Fried Rice Paradise back to the stage in this fresh new format. We first celebrated Dick Lee’s iconic musical during SG50 in 2010 – and now, as we approach SG60, it feels only fitting to pay tribute to Singapore’s love of food and culture through this immersive theatrical feast,” said Gaurav Kripalani, Artistic Director of Singapore Repertory Theatre.

Paradox Singapore is proud to partner with Singapore Repertory Theatre to present Fried Rice Paradise – The Makan Party, a celebration of Singapore’s rich cultural heritage and the joy of shared experiences. “As a proud local champion, we are dedicated to supporting homegrown arts and creating authentic experiences. Our culinary and bar teams collaborated closely with the production to craft a menu that complements the storytelling and brings the performance to life. We are excited to showcase our newly renovated ballroom as a vibrant space where culture, creativity, and community come together,” said Christine Choo, General Manager, Paradox Singapore.

Directed by Danny Yeo, the production is both a celebration of local music and a continuation of his exploration into experiential theatre. “For the past 15 years, I’ve been developing experiential theatre where the audience is an integral part of the production, and this show continues an intentional and effortful exploration. I’m familiar with Dick’s songs and I’ve admired Thomas Lim’s scripts, so this is a really exciting collaboration for me.”

Playwright Thomas Lim adds emotional flavour and cheeky humour to a story where the food is as central as the family. “I’m excited about the role that food plays in this experience. Usually, when there is mention of food in a script, it is in reference to a prop, though this time, I’m writing something that will actually be served and eaten by audiences!”

Whether you come for the food, the music, or the family drama, one thing’s for sure – this is a feast that delivers on all fronts.

Fried Rice Paradise – The Makan Party runs from 12th August 2025 at Paradox Singapore Hotel. Tickets available here

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