March 28, 2010
Liao Zhai Rocks! musical
(From http://beyondsg.typepad.com/beyondsg/2010/03/1.html)

When I accepted the invitation by Kuo Jian Hong to attend the opening performance of Liao Zhai Rocks!, it was principally because of my affection for Kuo Pao Kun.  Pao Kun played a major role in nurturing Singapore drama and many of those now involved are directly or indirectly influenced by him.  This year is the 45th Anniversary of The Theatre Practice and Liao Zhai Rocks! is the 250th production.

I read Liao Zhai in English translation many years ago and was delighted with the way it has been given a modern treatment.  These Taoist tales may seem silly at one level but are deeply philosophical at another.  The fusion of old and new worked well.

Pao Kun’s wife, Lay Kuan, who sat next to me complained that the music was too loud.  I told her that it should have been a little louder to create the mood.  Maybe it was the opening night and there were too many VIPs around.  I had not seen Lay Kuan since the performance of  ‘If there are seasons’ and remarked that she looked very well.  She told me that she now meditates several hours a day.

Old Chang Kee was once again the main sponsor and got other entrepreneurs to give their support as well.

George Yeo