Huayi Festival 2019: The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark by Li Liuyi Theatre Studio (Review)

Tragedy seems written in the stars in this lengthy production as the cosmos themselves bid our sweet prince goodnight.  Ranking among Shakespeare’s best works, it’s little surprise that Hamlet has seen countless productions and interpretations over the centuries. Opening the Esplanade’s Huayi Festival 2019, director Li Liuyi’s latest production of the piece sees the moody protagonist played by film star Hu Jun (Red Cliff, East Palace West Palace), … Continue reading Huayi Festival 2019: The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark by Li Liuyi Theatre Studio (Review)

Crazy Poor Sita: An Interview with Sharul Channa On Her Newest Show

Comedian extraordinaire Sharul Channa may be better known for her acid-tongued acerbic wit and jabs, but last year, surprised us with a series of dramatic monologues presenting the stories of various women in the Indian community at Kalaa Utsavam 2018. Now, Sharul is back to kickstart her 2019 season with a brand new show that continues to build on that craft, with Crazy Poor Sita premiering in … Continue reading Crazy Poor Sita: An Interview with Sharul Channa On Her Newest Show

Preview: Esplanade presents Huayi Festival 2019

There’s already plenty to get excited about for the 2019’s arts season! Esplanade – Theatres by the Bay, has launched their 2019 Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts lineup, and we couldn’t be more excited for this 17th edition. Taking place from 15th to 24th February 2019, Huayi 2019 builds on the success of last year’s five new commissioned works, working together with both local … Continue reading Preview: Esplanade presents Huayi Festival 2019

Kalaa Utsavam 2018: Bali by Adishakti Theatre (Review)

Adishakti Theatre delivers both monkey business and human emotion in equal amounts in this surprisingly powerful fringe show. The Hindi epic The Ramayana is an account of the heroic deeds performed by the hero Rama, often considered a ‘champion of dharma’, or righteous deeds. But as we all know, morality exists in shades of grey, and when put to close examination, one comes to realise … Continue reading Kalaa Utsavam 2018: Bali by Adishakti Theatre (Review)

Kalaa Utsavam 2018: Disco Sheela and Other Indian Superwomen by Sharul Channa (Review)

Not all superheroes wear capes – sometimes they wear a sari.  While we’re very much used to hearing Sharul Channa let loose her signature pottymouth, in a changeup from her usual style of comedy, Sharul attempts to break new ground with Disco Sheela and Other Indian Superwomen. Distinct from her previous performances, Disco Sheela sees the leading female comedian take on brand new characters across four monologues, highlighting the … Continue reading Kalaa Utsavam 2018: Disco Sheela and Other Indian Superwomen by Sharul Channa (Review)

Kalaa Utsavam 2018: Parasu – The Story of An Ultimate Warrior by Avant Theatre (Review)

A collection of tales about the sixth avatar of Lord Vishnu In Hindu mythology, the warrior sage Parasu is best known for being the sixth avatar of the god Lord Vishnu, maintainer of balance in the universe. Blessed with immense power and war sense when visited by the god Shiva one day, Parasu is simultaneously cursed with a seemingly unending anger that both feeds his … Continue reading Kalaa Utsavam 2018: Parasu – The Story of An Ultimate Warrior by Avant Theatre (Review)

Preview: Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts 2018 by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

This November, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay returns with the 17th edition of the annual Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts. From 16th to 25th November this year, watch as the region’s top Indian artists gather to present revolutionary modern versions of traditional art forms, with artists such as sitar maverick Niladri Kumar, alternative rock band Avial, dancer/choreographer Leela Samson and chitravina artist Vishaal Sapuram … Continue reading Preview: Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts 2018 by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

Review: Nederlands Dance Theater 1 (da:ns Festival 2018)

Four works that showcase the vast talent and infinite imagination of NDT. Each time the Nederlands Dans Theater (NDT) graces our shores ought to be considered a phenomenal event; the world renowned company is without a doubt one of the top contemporary dance theatres, with no shortage of slick, technically brilliant works that leave audiences slack-jawed and open-mouthed with awe at the dancers’ finesse and … Continue reading Review: Nederlands Dance Theater 1 (da:ns Festival 2018)

Review: Invisible Habitudes by T.H.E Dance Company (da:ns Festival 2018)

Exploring interpersonal relationships through the most primal facets of the human condition and intense choreography.  While often associated with free performances, for da:ns Festival 2018, T.H.E Dance Company has premiered the very first full-length ticketed dance performance at the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre, beautifully set against the backdrop of the Marina Bay skyline. Choreographed by T.H.E artistic director Kuik Swee Boon, Invisible Habitudes’ creation was born from T.H.E’s methodology of “hollow … Continue reading Review: Invisible Habitudes by T.H.E Dance Company (da:ns Festival 2018)

Review: Until the Lions by Akram Khan (da:ns Festival 2018)

Thrilling, wickedly sharp choreography and strong set design makes for a spectacle of a performance. For veteran choreographer and dancer Akram Khan, life has a fascinating way of coming full circle. One of his earliest experiences on the stage would be as a 13 year old as part of Peter Brook’s staging of the Mahabharata. Years later, he’s returned to the Hindu epic with a … Continue reading Review: Until the Lions by Akram Khan (da:ns Festival 2018)