I'm really glad that I'm able to catch one of the last few shows of The Lion King at Marina Bay Sands. I've always wanted to go, and now that it is leaving Singapore, there is no time to waste.
My uncle helped to book the tickets and with a group rate, the tickets for C reserve were cheaper. We ate dinner at Rasapura and I must say, the IR still impressed me.
It was a sell-out show with lots of kids and parents turning up. There were also school children in their uniforms turning up in classes. A single ticket costs quite a lot and they certainly have the means to do so. Perhaps, their school did sponsor them?
With good sense, we checked out the theatre shop before the show because it will be teaming with people when the show is over. I bought a pin which has the lion king logo on it and the event booklet which costs S$15.
It is a captivating show and the costumes are simply stunning! The songs are sung powerfully and the score with its African origins haunting. The portrayal of the animals are quite realistic. The lion masks were extremely detailed and beautifully hand-crafted.
The Lion King defines theatre and I think many people will be surprised that plays can be as good as films.
This is a showcase of what theatre can be: taking an epic tale and adapting it onto the stage. Theatre has that certain charm and "human touch" that films do not have. Knowing that there is only one chance to make it right and getting a standing ovation, it is not something you can get from a film.
During the 2 and 1/2 hours show, the theatre was transformed into the African plains with leaping antelopes, stately giraffes, and sleek leopard. The stage exploded into a myriad of colours and it is certainly a feast for the eyes. The backdrops are magnificent and lighting and music ties everything together nicely.
I'm happy that my parents got a chance to watch it as well, after much cajoling from us. Seize the day, that's how the saying goes. Who knows when will the broadway show be in Singapore again?
