When it comes to ‘coming of age’ literature, Singapore will always have Army Daze, the famous local play created by Michael Chiang
Everyone, report for duty! One of Singapore’s most iconic plays – created by Michael Chiang – is coming back with a long-awaited sequel, 30 years after Army Daze debuted on stage. Army Daze 2 will see old characters return, now as proper, working adults while a new generation of recruits take their places serving the nation.
Why was this play such a knockout success? Army Daze boldly took stabs at the mandatory rite of passage of every able-bodied man in Singapore, capturing the attention of the nation with this comedic yet meaningful parody. And decades later, many of its themes and jokes still ring true, as you’re about to find out in its long-awaited sequel.
Original Army Daze recruit, Malcolm Png, returns as an SAF regular this time and is sending his son off to National Service. It will all be a rush of nostalgia as he regroups with his old platoon of quirky but lovable characters to reminisce about the salad days.
The play will feature talented homegrown actors like Hossan Leong, Shane Mardjuki, Chua Enlai, Oon Shu An, Ebi Shankara, and more. 16-year old singing sensation from X Factor Australia, Natalie Ong, will be making her theatre debut on Army Daze 2 as well. It’s a long-awaited event so we suggest you don’t own time, own target when buying tickets!
Army Daze 2 will begin 4 August to 20 August at Drama Centre,100 Victoria St, #05-01, National Library, Singapore 188064. Tickets are available here.