Love a good old Pantomine at Christmas time? Wild Rice's theatre production of Pinocchio in Singapore is a classic panto with a Singaporean twist, and we are here for it!
Christmas is a great time to take the kids to the theatre, especially to a pantomime like Pinocchio in Singapore that takes a classic story and adds a hilarious twist. We also love the audience engagement – who doesn’t love shouting ‘he’s behind you!’ whenever the villain steps onstage? Most of us will be familiar with the classic tale of Pinocchio. The little wooden puppet is taking the stage at Wild Rice theatre this holidays, and here’s what it’s all about:
“In this cheekily on-the-nose musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale, Wild Rice brings one of the world’s most beloved characters to the Singapore stage. Meet Pinocchio, a wooden puppet crafted with loving care by Geppetto – a kind, humble carpenter who has always dreamt of becoming a father.
With a wish and a touch of fairy magic, Pinocchio springs to life… but there are some strings attached! To become a real boy, Pinocchio must first prove himself to be brave, kind and true. It’s a challenge the little puppet is determined to overcome – until he is led astray by a pair of wily con artists and swept up in a madcap misadventure that takes him from the tempting promise of the circus to the deepest depths of the fathomless sea.” – Wild Rice Theatre
So, should you take the fam to see it? We did, and here’s why we think you should, too…
1. A classic tale with a Singaporean twist
This original script adaption takes the timeless concept of a British pantomime and adds a Singaporean flavour! The message of the story remains intact. The honour of selflessness, teaching kids to be brave and true, and follow the path you know is right even if it is difficult. So many laughs came from the obvious Singaporean edges. We even heard traces of Singlish in the dialogue!
2. Original soundtrack with bopping tunes
The music adds so much to the show, with everything from heartfelt ballads to catchy dance numbers. Shout out to G-Hop for the super impressive, lengthy rap (that was also very funny.) You can listen to all of the songs from the show on Spotify – my son and I are still greeting each other with ‘woo-ooh-ooh-woo’!
3. The incredible cast
There is so much talent in this cast, and the characters are all very well-developed, so you feel a real connection with all of them. There’s sweet Gepetto and his longing for a family, the sly but loyal fox and cat, and the inimitable Blue Fairy, who stole the show in every scene. Unless G-Hop was present, and then the giggles belonged to her! And, of course, Pinocchio. The star of the show played with exuberance and innocence, a lovely singing voice, and an impressive dedication to maintaining the puppet-like poses throughout the show.
The other stars of this production of Pinocchio in Singapore are the kids from First Stage Kids. They delivered their lines like pros, managed costume changes and played a range of different characters, from fairies to little old people.
4. Marvel at the excellent set and costume design
The set transforms to take us from Gepetto’s toy shop to the town square to inside the belly of a whale! We loved the use of lighting to show the boat travelling across the sea and the added touch of flapping fish! The costumes are visually beautiful – so many shimmering sequins and bright colours. But the real winner is Pinocchio’s nose which really does grow as lies are being told! So clever.
5. Support Wild Rice and the local theatre scene by seeing Pinocchio in Singapore
It’s fantastic to see theatre back with a bang after the last few years and to have this production of Pinocchio in Singapore. Live performances were so sorely missed, and we need to support our local, smaller theatre companies to keep these unique productions coming! It was my first time at Wild Rice theatre at Funan, and I was surprised at the size of the space and how cleverly it is set up. There are a lot of seats, and you have a great view no matter where you’re sitting. Having a floor stage means there is so much more engagement with the audience. The energy in the theatre was fantastic. Kids young and old will love this show – book your tickets today!
See you at the theatre!