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It's musical time in the region!
Kenny Santana , CONTRIBUTOR , JAKARTA | Sun, 03/08/2009 12:45 PM | Lifestyle
There's never been a better time to enjoy musicals in the region like the present. Plenty of the world's best musicals, from Mamma Mia! to Billy Elliot to Cats, are closer to reach for fans to enjoy. Without having to fly to London or New York, these are a few nearby selections worth singing about.
Cats
Why
Though the idea of a bunch of singing felines might scare more than a few, Andrew Lloyd Webber's record-breaking creation is far from dull. The premise of local cats auditioning to go to heaven has charm, wit and most importantly, heart written all over it. Memorable songs throughout but *Memory' is especially endearing. Tagged as the world's best-loved musical is certainly has big shoes to fill, and yet Cats has got its claws just about right.
What they say
"It's a musical that transports the audience into a complete fantasy world that could exist in the theater and yet, these days, only rarely does. It believes in purely theatrical magic and on that faith it unquestionably delivers." New York Times
Where
Esplanade Theatre Singapore from April 10 - May 3, 2009
How much
Tickets starts from S$40 and are available via www.sistic.com.sg or call Sistic Jakarta at 021-3508080
The Post's tip
Budget airline Air Asia (www.airasia.com) has cheap seats to Singapore on Cats dates at only Rp 150,000++ one way.
Wicked
Why
This musical's land of Oz setting provides a feast for the eyes as soon as the curtain opens. Add that to catchy songs spread throughout an antihero story about the supposedly bad green-faced witch trying to fit into the world makes Wicked deliciously wicked. Famous for bringing young girls into the theatres, Wicked is a fun romp throughout, regardless of whether you're a tween or not.
What they say
"A remarkable kaleidoscope of magical shocks, surprises and sensations - Wicked works like a dream." Evening Standard
Where
Regent's Theatre Melbourne through April 30, 2009
How much
Tickets starts from AU$90 and are available via www.qantasboxoffice.com.au
The Post's tip
Get the AU$110 A-reserve ticket via the above website and receive a complimentary one-course dinner at participating restaurants.
Billy Elliot
The Musical
Why
One of the best musicals I've ever seen is just now down under. The story of a boy wanting to be a ballet dancer is moving, breathtaking and exuberant thanks to the wonderful music by Elton John, a great Lee Hall script and Peter Darling's choreography.
It has the drama, the songs and the amazing stage set other musicals can only wish for. And of course, the Swan Lake piece near the end was flawless. Musical fans should not miss this.
What they say
"Billy Elliot The Musical is much an elegy as a celebration is what makes it such a winner." Variety
Where
Her Majesty's Theatre Melbourne through 10 May, 2009.
How much
Tickets starts from AU$70 are available via www.qantasboxoffice.com.au
The Post's tip:
Before seeing the musical, order the Billy Musical Special Edition 2-disc DVD from www.amazon.co.uk for 5 pounds sterling. The disc features two great documentaries about the musical.
Mamma Mia!
Why?
Hot from the success of the Chicago musical last month, Bangkok has already opened the box office for the eagerly awaited Mamma Mia! No Meryl Streep this time, but the musical, which inspired the movie, has the same ingredients as the film: ABBA songs, a simple story, and endless sing-along possibilities. Only this time is better, it's live! Join the crowds this August and you'll be having the time of your life.
What they say
"A great musical hit! A genuinely original, comic and touching story allied to some of the greatest and most theatrical pop songs ever written." International Herald Tribune
Where
Muangthai Ratchadalai Theatre, Bangkok from Aug.11-23, 2009
How much
Tickets starts from 1,000 baht and are available via www.thaiticketmajor.com
The Post's tip:
Pick the long weekend break around Independence Day (Aug.14-17) to watch this musical with your buddies.
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