Huayi 2025: What to see at the Chinese arts festival, from Cantonese stand-up to Nanyin
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The Heart Of Jun: Memoirs Of Zhaojun by Siong Leng Musical Association.
PHOTO: ESPLANADE – THEATRES ON THE BAY
SINGAPORE – Usher in the Year of the Snake this Chinese New Year with theatre, dance, music and other arts performances at Esplanade’s Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts. The 2025 line-up features multilingual acts from Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Hong Kong and China.
In addition to dramas by acclaimed Taiwanese director Wu Nien-jen and Singaporean theatremaker Alvin Chiam, an adaptation of Chinese modern writer Lao She’s Rickshaw Boy and a reunion of four Singaporean dancers – here are three other shows to catch at the festival.
The Heart Of Jun: Memoirs Of Zhaojun
Traditional Nanyin music is fused with contemporary theatre in this multidisciplinary work that tells the tale of three women who leave China in the early 20th century for South-east Asia.
Collaborating with Taiwanese playwright Katherine Hui-ling Chou and Taiwanese director Lee Yi-hsiu, Singapore’s Siong Leng Musical Association will present works from more than 500 years ago and contemporary music composed by its music director Ng Kang Kee.
Where: Singtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade, 8 Raffles Avenue
When: Feb 14 and 15, 8pm
Admission: From $36
Info: str.sg/59aE
The Perfect Detox Soup
The Perfect Detox Soup by Cheryl Lee.
PHOTO: ESPLANADE – THEATRES ON THE BAY
Malaysian stand-up comedienne Cheryl Lee makes her Singapore debut with a Cantonese show that unpacks the various “toxins” of modern life – from toxic relationships to online trolling.
Lee – who is also a host, lyricist and writer – has held over 10 solo performances, which have been well received with sold-out shows. Apart from touring Malaysia, Lee has also charmed audiences in Hong Kong.
Where: Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive
When: Feb 14 and 15, 7.30pm
Admission: From $46
Info: str.sg/LXfP
Candy House In The Mountain
Candy House In The Mountain by Bon Appetit Theatre.
PHOTO: ESPLANADE – THEATRES ON THE BAY
This Mandarin version of the beloved children’s classic Hansel And Gretel, staged by Taiwanese theatre troupe Bon Appetit Theatre, promises to be a visual and sonic treat for families with children aged seven to 12.
With sound effects created live onstage, audiences can watch a Foley artist create the soundscape of Candy House In The Mountain using everyday items. There will be an interactive element where audience members can participate in creating sounds too.
Where: Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, 1 Esplanade Drive
When: Feb 7 to 16, various timings
Admission: Free and ticketed
Info: str.sg/KVSq
