October 23, 2015

Chinese opera show at Victoria Theatre


Last week I went to Victoria Theatre to watch two shows - one Cantonese opera excerpts and one Cantonese songs concert. It was the first time I was there after the Theatre's renovation. The outside and inside of the Theatre have changed quite significantly.

I think the new seating arrangement is similar to that of the Esplanade Theatre. I was at the stalls section. The circle section was higher.

After the shows, feedback from audience who were at the circle seats were all negative - “steps too steep, no handrails, too dark, too high, can't see”.

As we all know, a lot of fans who watch Chinese opera shows are elderly folks. Some have weak legs. They walk slowly and carefully. Some use walking aids. A fall could have disastrous consequences.

Perhaps in future, organizers who want to use Victoria Theatre for Chinese opera shows could leave out the circle section.  

October 12, 2015

Performances at The Serangoon Community Club

on 26 and  27 September 2015
Photos supplied courtesy of Choon Lan (the lady in the first photo)















October 05, 2015

An unfortunate incident


Last week I watched a Cantonese opera performance at a community club. The artists performed well. Unfortunately, there was an embarrassing incident.

During one opera excerpt, the headgear of the huadan in warrior costume fell down. It did not drop onto the floor; it slid onto the huadan's face. It happened another two times before the huadan went backstage to get it fixed. Then she came out to continue with the performance.

Several minutes later, the headgear slid down her face again. It happened two or three times. Poor lady, she must be feeling distressful. The audience also felt sorry for her. She was a bit unsettled but courageously performed till the end. Towards the end of the excerpt her hair wig looked like it had also come loose.

I guess it was the fault of the person who did the dressing-up for her. Maybe the person is inexperienced or he or she didn't do the job properly.

I think the performers should also ensure that the headgears are secure.