A Huayi 2012 festival commission by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, directed by Nelson Chia (谢燊杰), performed by accomplished veteran actors Johnny Ng (黄家强), Liow Shi Seun (刘诗璇), Leanne Ong (王德亮) and 883 Jia FM DJ, Jeffrey Low (刘俊葳), Who’s Afraid Of Virginia Woolf? is an award-winning classic play by American playwright Edward Albee.

This production strives to bring back the allure of great realist classics in Mandarin through the power of strong characterisation, exquisite language and compelling performances by the actors.

The Cast's wardrobe all laid out

Synopsis

An elderly professor, George, and his wife, Martha, invite university newcomer, Nick, and his wife, Honey, over to their place for a late night party. As the night passes, they find themselves caught in the middle of a marital conflict. Fueled by alcohol and using language as weapon, they are compelled to blemish, hurt, seduce and manipulate, in order to wound their opponents. In the end, mad lies become their only hope. How will this night of torment end?

Truth and illusion—can we tell the difference between the two? Do we have the courage to live in a world with no illusion but our true self?

The 4 main cast rehearsing a scene together

Another scene from the rehearsal

Artitute went behind the scene during one of the rehearsal session at Emily Hill. We were graciously invited by the director, Nelson Chia. If you like to read more about our experience and findings during the rehearsal, please click here to read more. Otherwise, please watchout for the play, Who’s Afraid Of Virginal Woolf, at the upcoming Huayi Festival at The Esplanade Threatre.

Review and comments by the director (left)

At the end of the rehearsal, a post mortem was discussed before everyone leaves

Scribbles and notes on the script

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Date: 27-28 Jan 2012

Time: Fri, 8PM, Sat, 3PM & 8PM
Venue: Esplanade Theatre Studio
Tickets: S$35 (Check www.sistic.com.sg for discounts and concessions)

Duration: 2hrs 15mins including 15mins intermission.
Performed in Mandarin with English subtitles.

More information: www.huayifestival.com and www.Artitute.com