We chat to local celebrity and thespian Julie Wee about her life as an actress in Singapore
If you grew up watching local TV in Singapore, you’ll probably recognise the gorgeous Julie Wee (she was in Moulmein High and Light Years as a teenager). Fast forward to the actress’s graduation from The Victorian College of the Arts Drama School (VCA) in Melbourne, Julie returned home to take on the Singapore stage, starring in productions including SRT’s Much Ado About Nothing and Wild Rice’s musical Cindere-LAH!. We chat with her about her latest role as Miranda in Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT)’s production of The Tempest and what’s coming up for her.
Hi Julie! Tell us, how did you start acting?
I started at 14 on a kid’s show called Adventure Club. In junior college, I played Dewi the snotty rich girl on Moulmein High and went on to act in Light Years, before I dabbled in theatre. I studied drama for three years at The Victorian College of Arts and since then, have been working in theatre and voice acting.
What do you enjoy most about acting?
I love the two distinct sides of the theatre process – rehearsing helps you explore and try things out while performing has the thrill of the live audience’s unpredictable reaction. There’s also the challenge of keeping things fresh no matter how many performances there are.
What should people expect from The Tempest?
SRT has always produced spectacular Shakespeare In The Park performances – so expect The Tempest to be as striking! Audiences will love the lavish set, the magic created by Prospero and Ariel and the enchanting atmosphere of the park. Don’t forget to pack a picnic basket and a bottle of wine!
Julie Wee as Portia in SRT’s Merchant of Venice
You played the quick-witted Portia in last year’s Merchant of Venice and this year, the earnest Miranda in The Tempest. Which do you identify with?
Both – but they are so different! With Miranda, I love exploring her innocence and newness towards human interaction. With Portia, I love playing the contrast of being sharp and bold yet at the mercy of her father when it comes to love.
Your dream role?
While I don’t have any specific roles in mind, my dream role is ‘Eponine’ in Les Miserables. Sadly, I don’t specialize in musical theatre. I would love any challenging meaty roles though, whether comedic or dramatic.
If you weren’t acting, you would be…
An interior designer. I designed my own apartment last year, and think I have an (untrained) eye for it!
Lastly, what’s next for you?
Aside from my voiceover work, I will be working on Hotel by Wild Rice, which is a Singapore International Festival of Arts commission playing on 28-30 Aug.
Thanks Julie!
Catch Julie Wee as Miranda in The Tempest, SRT’s highly anticipated annual Shakespeare In The Park event. Opening on 29 April, the production is supported by an impressive creative team and stellar cast.
This article is sponsored by Singapore Repertory Theatre.