Posted on

The Brilliant Les Misérables Experience

With only tunes from the score in my head, and zilch background of the show, I entered the theatre and came out a fan. That’s how powerful the performance was. Cameron Mackintosh’s acclaimed new production of Boublil and Schonberg’s legendary musical, Les Misérables just finished its preview performances at Esplanade Theatre with full house and standing ovations. Lucky me got one of the best seats in the house – T15, and I was awed by the details and impeccable transitions from 1815 in Digne to 1832 in Paris.

Set against the backdrop of 19th-century revolutionary France, Les Misérables is a much-loved blockbuster musical which has been seen by over 70 million people worldwide in 44 countries and in 22 languages. Les Mis is undisputedly one of the most popular musicals of all time. Based on Victor Hugo’s classic novel, it is an epic and uplifting story about the survival of the human spirit.

One of the world’s greatest musicals, this new production of the much-loved blockbuster features glorious modernised staging, orchestrations and dazzlingly reimagined scenery inspired by the paintings of Victor Hugo. This new version of Les Misérables is not to be missed indeed.

26811340544_66dbcf841c_k

Playing the role of iconic role of Jean Valjean is established actor and musical theatre star, Simon Gleeson following his recent and prestigious Australian Helpmann Award win for the role. Valjean’s lifelong antagonist Javert is be played by Earl Carpenter, direct from his performance of the role in the Broadway company of Les Misérables, having also played the role in the UK and Toronto. Returning to the international company is Patrice Tipoki as Fantine, who just completed a West End run in the same role. Joining them are musical theatre stars, Cameron Blakely and Helen Walsh as Monsieur and Madame Thenardier, Kerrie Anne Greenland as Eponine, Paul Wilkins as Marius, Emily Langridge as Cosette and Chris Durling as Enjolras who all come directly from performing the show in Manila.

That’s me grinning after the awesome and brilliant performance at the media preview Les Misérables.

With such prolific casts and the breathtaking production, it is nothing less than stunning. Having caught several productions over these years, this is by far the more extraordinary theatrical experience ever! I want to watch it again!

Les Misérables in Singapore
Tue, 31 May – Sun, 17 Jul 2016
Tue – Fri: 8pm
Sat: 2pm & 8pm
Sun: 1:30pm & 7pm

At Esplanade Theatre, Singapore
Ticket prices range from S$58 to S$228.
Get your tickets at www.sistic.com.sg or call +65 6348 5555.

Posted on

You don’t want to miss The Social Network

If there can only be one movie I get to catch this year, it’ll be The Social Network. Having live, breathe, eat and sleep on Facebook these years, and as a struggling entrepreneur, I can so relate to the movie! It was 120 minutes of a great lesson and enjoyment for me. Would have enjoyed it even more if I hadn’t drank that much water before the show and having the urge rush through me at the last 30 minutes. (You know what I mean!) Glad I’m going for Round 2! I’m addicted to The Social Network! Its like a ride on a roller-coaster.

I would like to quote David Fincher, Director of The Social Network, from his Q&A I got from the press kit.

You grow something, and your job is to grow it well and to make sure it gets enhanced and to take care of it. That’s the subject of the movie. And if you have to hurt people’s feelings in order to protect that thing, that’s what you have to do. It’s a responsibility.

Continue reading “You don’t want to miss The Social Network”

Posted on

If Only It Was Not Too Late

The title reminded me of him. The opening reminded me to remember what he has done when he was around. By the sixth minute, I couldn’t hold back anymore. It was an emotional short film.

I believe when he departed, he had us in his mind and remembered the good times we shared. I believe he hasn’t suffered from dementia.

Relieved that my Ah Ma is still actively involved around the house. Maybe I should teach her how to Facebook, so she can view the photos from our family activities! Maybe I should ask her children to buy an iPad for her birthday! (Godma you’re reading this right? *hint*) Got to keep Ah Ma’s mind active and encourage her to take up new hobby! Please go read about dementia and help the elderly in your family.

Ah Kong is a new short film written and directed by Royston Tan and presented by the Health Promotion Board.

I miss Gonggong.