Soak up Singapore's thriving creative scene as the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA) returns from May 16 to June 2. Catch blockbuster performances from around the world at various locations including the Victoria Theatre, SOTA Drama Theatre and the Drama Centre. Here are five shows you don’t want to miss.
RECOMMENDED: Upcoming performance arts events in Singapore
May 17 & 18
Strap in for a cross-cultural adaptation of the Greek tragedy The Bacchae by Japan’s Suzuki Company of Toga and Indonesia’s Purnati Indonesia. Hailed as one of Greek playwright’s Euripides’ greatest dramas, the staging tells the story of Dionysus, the God of wine, who punishes Pentheus, King of Thebes, for opposing him. The captivating piece is performed in various languages with English surtitles.
Victoria Theatre, 9 Empress Pl. Raffles Place. $40-$60.
May 17-19
Let acclaimed local artist Ho Tzu Nyen take you into the depth of Southeast Asian history through the life of Lai Teck, the leader of the Malayan Communist Party from 1939 to 1947. Rumour has it that he had over 30 pseudonyms, acting as an agent for the French, British and Japanese secret police. But what’s the real deal? Perhaps this innovative staging featuring an animatronic puppet, visual projections and theatrical drapes might shed some light on the mystery man.
SOTA Drama Theatre, 1 Zubir Said Dr. Dhoby Ghaut. $40.
May 18-20
Brought to you by New Zealand’s Silo Theatre, this award-winning, modern adaptation of Sergei Prokofiev’s classic fairytale of the same name ropes audience along on Peter’s journey where he sets off to capture a wolf. With live animation, puppetry and music, this captivating tale appeals to the whole entire family.
KC Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Rd. Clarke Quay. $30-$40.
May 24-26
Set against the backdrop of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, this play explores the aid industry including the relationships between workers, philanthropists, politics and institutions. Warning: it features mature content.
Victoria Theatre, 9 Empress Pl. Raffles Place. $40-$60.
May 31-Jun 2
This contemporary adaptation of Ming Dynasty playwright Tang Xianzu’s classic saga by local company Toy Factory is nothing short of ambitious. It follows a disgraced naval officer who's betrothed to the Ant Kingdom’s princess and is appointed the new governor of the Southern Bough.
3/F, National Library Building, 100 Victoria St. Bugis. $40-$60.
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