In conjunction with the Opening of The 8-storey Gateway Theatre suited at the heart of Bukit Merah Central, a series of play and Opening Festival activities were lined up on the weekend. It aims to promote the local performing art scene through its creative arts space. This multi-level building, Gateway Theatre, was also designed locally by the reowned Ong & Ong Architects.
The Gateway Theatre consists of the 930-seat Main Theatre and the 230-seat modular Black Box theatre. In addition, there is a dance studio and gallery available for rent and an outdoor sky garden and small balcony gardens for open-air performances.
Three play were available during the weekend with “Hansel & Gretel” adapted from the renowned fairytale and it is suitable for all age group. Next was “As It Fades“. A dance that was inspired from dialects, folk songs and memories of the dancers and their parents. Lastly a comedy “Singapore Stands Up” by the Husband and wife real-life comedy tag team Sharul and Rishi.
We chose to watch the easy and relax play, Hansel & Gretel during the Opening Festival at the 9 July. In the story, it narrates the life of a pair of sibling, a brother and a sister, how they were led to the trap and eventually escape from the fate of eaten-up.
Despite the raw theatrical props which indicate a low-budget production, it was compensated by the brilliant performance of the 4 actors. The language was simple and most importantly they spoke very slowly which allows non-native English speakers to understand perfectly.
Something unusual but was very much welcomed was the injection of a Question & Answer session at the end of the show. I thought that was extremely educational and helpful. This allows both kids and adult to have their doubts clarify and also allows interaction. It reminded me of the Literature lessons I attended during Secondary school.
NAHMJ Verdict
With the launch of Gateway Theatre, for those who love Made-In-Singapore performing arts, should fix their eyes on them for the many that will be on the way. NAHMJ certainly think it is a good way to promote our local arts scene in Singapore and encourage more to put on their imaginary cap and to develop an appreciation for the Arts.
The Gateway Theatre
3615 Jalan Bukit Merah, Singapore 159461
Tel: +65 6819 0775
Website: https://theatre.gateway.sg/
Getting There
By Bus:
- At or opp Bukit Merah Town Centre along Jalan Bukit Merah 14, 147, 196, 197, 955, 961
- At Bukit Merah Interchange 5, 16, 57, 123, 131, 132, 139, 153, 167, 176, 198, 272, 273, 275, 851
- Before or after Bukit Merah Central along Henderson Road 145
*Disclaimer: The writer was sponsored a pair of ticket for Hansel & Gretel.
