Forbidden City

Jointly Presented by Singapore Repertory Theatre and Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay

Photo credit: Singapore Repertory Theatre

Originally staged as part of Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay’s Opening Festival in 2002, Forbidden City: Portrait of an Empress went on to be one of the most successful made-in-Singapore musicals produced. Thanks to overwhelming demand, Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT) and Esplanade are delighted to jointly present Forbidden City in August 2017 at the Esplanade Theatre.

Two of the greatest icons of China’s ancient history come to life before your eyes in a spectacular musical of epic proportions. Come step into the cloaked world of the Forbidden City and the legendary Empress Dowager Cixi. You’ll be mesmerised by this soulful tale of dark secrets, whispered rumours, love, betrayal and power.

Starring in the Singapore production are musical stars Kit Chan as the Empress Dowager Cixi, with Cheryl Tan as the young imperial concubine, Yehenara, and features music by Cultural Medallion winner, Dick Lee. The cast will also include West End and Broadway star Earl Carpenter (Les Misérables) and Broadway star Steffanie Leigh (Mary Poppins).

Click here for the link to trailer.

Said Benson Puah, Chief Executive Officer, The Esplanade Co Ltd, “Fifteen years since Esplanade commissioned Forbidden City for our opening, we are delighted to bring this iconic musical back for audiences old and new to enjoy. Our collaboration with SRT to bring some of the most memorable theatre in the world to Singapore audiences is key to our role of making it possible for local arts groups to take greater risks in artistic choices and strengthen their producing capabilities. We are pleased to continue working closely with them and hope many will come to watch this musical which features some of Singapore and musical theatre’s best.”

Said Gaurav Kripalani, Artistic Director for SRT, “We are very proud of this musical. In many ways it defines what SRT is and what Singapore is becoming – a place where the best artistic talent from Singapore and abroad congregate, collaborate and create. Forbidden City: Portrait of an Empress is a unique Asian story, based on historical events, then crafted and presented for an international audience.”

Photo credit: Singapore Repertory Theatre

Come experience this musical adventure, with stunning sets, costumes and the ever-haunting question of the truth. What really happened in the Forbidden City over a century ago? Who was the real Empress Dowager? The Dragon Lady of myth? Or a misunderstood victim of circumstance?

“Utterly exuberant and entertaining.” – The Business Times

“Forbidden City measures up to the standards of a mainstream musical. It is well-produced and offers remarkable moments of visual splendor with a gracefully minimalist (relative speaking) set.” – The Straits Times

We would like to invite you to see the musical during its run in Singapore and welcome a conversation about a potential tour in 2020. We preview from 8 Aug and run till 27 Aug, so please connect with SRT’s Managing Director Charlotte Nors to reserve your tickets and plan a meeting – charlotte@srt.com.sg.

Click here for link to the tour deck. More information and tickets are available on SISTIC.