Feature: Melodious Musical Month of April in Singapore

Singapore has been bitten by the musical theatre bug. Judging from the bumper crop of musical theatre productions in the local theatre calendar, fans of the form have much to be eager about. Thus far, two original musicals, Detention Katong by Dream Academy and Itsy by The Finger Players, have already been staged. For those who are eager to catch on to the musical boom, do not fret. There is a lot to sing (and dance) about in the month of April in Singapore.

Lao Jiu: The Musical by The Theatre Practice
6th-23rd April 2017
Drama Centre Theatre

Based on the Singapore classic of the same name by the late renowned theatre practitioner, Kuo Pao Kun, this musical adaptation is making a comeback for the third time. It centres on the conflict of the ninth born ("lao jiu"), the only son in the family who is hard-pressed to choose between following the track of academic success or pursuing his heart's calling for the traditional puppetry arts. The 2012 staging won accolades for Best Director (Kuo Jian Hong), Best Ensemble and a special mention for songwriting (Eric Ng and Xiaohan) at the 2013 Life! Theatre Awards. Once again helmed by Kuo Jian Hong, this classic tale is set to warm the hearts of the young and old.

Tropicana The Musical, produced by Tan Kheng Hua
13th - 30th April 2017
Capitol Theatre

For those familiar with Pacific Plaza in Orchard Road, that space used to be occupied by the famous topless cabaret club, Tropicana. Although it has been decades since it has closed, its legacy continues to live on in Tropicana the Musical. This original musical, written by Cultural Medallion recipient Haresh Sharma, is set to tantalize and tease the audience with a mixture of song and dance set in the Swinging Sixties. Haresh Sharma, alongside playwright Joel Tan as the lyricist, blends real and imagined accounts of events that occurred at the famed nightclub. Its pizzazz matches its big budget so one can definitely catch it to relive the glory days of the 60s.

Le Cage Aux Folles by Wild Rice
19th April - 13th May 2017
Victoria Theatre

Winner of 11 Tony Awards, this flamboyant musical written by Harvey Fierstein has been transported to the streets of Singapore. Le Cage Aux Folles or "the cage of mad women" is now a fabulous nightclub in Tanjong Pagar where George plays host and Albin, his long-time partner headlines as a glamorous diva in drag. When George's son, John, announces that his is getting married to the daughter of a right-wing politician who wants to close the club, guts and glitter ensues. With a Straits Times Readers' Choice Award for 'Production of the Year' under its belt for the 2012 staging, this musical extravaganza is expected to outshine in fabulousness. Feather boas not included.

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