The Studios 2026
Claire Teo’s Monstress finds troubled Medeas and Medusas in a S’pore HDB estate
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Claire Teo’s first play, Monstress, will be part of the Esplanade's The Studios programme.
ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG
- Claire Teo’s play Monstress reimagines Greek tales of Medea and Medusa as feminist stories set in a Singapore HDB flat, highlighting societal issues like caregiving struggles and sexual assault.
- The play draws from Teo’s personal experiences and advocacy, especially her connection to the disabled community and her brother with autism, giving a voice to often overlooked characters.
- Monstress challenges Singapore’s non-confrontational culture, urging greater community support and bravery in addressing abuse and isolation, with performances at Esplanade Theatre Studio in September 2026.
AI generated
SINGAPORE – The vengeful Greek tales of Medea and Medusa have in recent years been rehabilitated globally as feminist sagas of justified rage. Now, Singapore performer Claire Teo, who is blind, has created a localised version full of shock and drama, set in an HDB estate.
Far from jumping on a bandwagon, Monstress – an Esplanade co-production with Teo and Art:Dis – is a long-simmering cry of rage by the 27-year-old artist.
