We chat to Tan Shou Chen from The Nightingale
Life in a big palace isn’t easy. Just ask Tan Shou Chen, who plays the Emperor of China in Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT) The Little Company’s upcoming production, The Nightingale. After playing Sunny, aka Dick Lee’s father, in Rising Son, Shou Chen returns to the stage as a spoilt, demanding little Emperor, who discovers that having royal blood doesn’t make him truly rich.
Touted as one of Singapore’s “30 under 30” actors to look out for, we caught up with Shou Chen to find out more about the show’s key themes and why theatre is so important for young people:
Hello, Shou Chen! The Emperor reminds us of our kids a little bit – he gets bored of the nightingale and wants something better. What can children learn from him?
The Emperor treats the Nightingale as a plaything, and only realises how much the Nightingale means to him after he has lost her. I think this is a wonderful story about friendship and the beauty others have to offer, as long as we treat them respectfully and treasure them.
The nightingale sings some beautiful songs. Kids love to sing too! How can the audience join in?
There will certainly be moments for the audience to join in the songs but it can be challenging for the actors if everyone decides to add their own harmonies during the show! I admit that being silent might be difficult though because the songs are really catchy!
Ownership and freedom are lofty themes. Can you describe how Director, Kate Golledge, conveys these for young audiences in The Little Company’s version?
I think Kate has done a beautiful job creating a work that appeals to the young, bringing them on a fun and engaging journey, and most of all, encouraging them to discover for themselves what the story of the Nightingale means. I think that is a wonderful experience for young theatre-goers to look forward to.
In your opinion, why is theatre so important for young people?
I love it when young people come to watch theatre. It requires them to imagine, and unlocking the imagination is one of the most valuable gifts we can give to kids. I fully agree with Albert Einstein, who says: “I am enough of an artist to draw freely upon my imagination. Imagination is more important than knowledge. Knowledge is limited. Imagination encircles the world.”
Sounds like families should definitely come and watch The Nightingale!
Yes, the show will be delightful – a journey filled with hijinks and heartfelt moments. You’ll leave the theatre humming the catchy tunes!
Get ready for a ‘trill-ing’ time with the whole fam at The Nightingale, presented by Singapore Repertory Theatre’s The Little Company. Opens Friday 1 Aug 2014 and runs till 14 Sep 2014. The Mandarin version opens 18 Sep 2014 and runs till 11 Oct 2014.
Images: Singapore Repertory Theatre