Miss Saigon is more than a story of love and tragedy, it’s also a visual feast for your eyes!
I would’ve never imagined being transported to the heart of the 1970s Vietnam War if I hadn’t caught the musical Miss Saigon in Singapore. This production, which has captivated audiences worldwide for decades, finally made its way to our city, and I was eager to experience the hype firsthand. As a somewhat seasoned theatregoer, I’ve witnessed my fair share of productions, but Miss Saigon was something truly special. While it may not have dethroned my all-time favourite (spoiler: it’s Wicked), it certainly left an impression.
From the outset, the play immerses you in the chaotic world of war-torn Vietnam. The opening scenes move at a breakneck pace, establishing the setting and introducing key characters with a flurry of activity. While this swift introduction effectively conveys the tumultuous atmosphere, it occasionally feels rushed, leaving little time for the audience to fully grasp the context before being thrust into the heart of the story.
Miss Saigon review: A tale of star-crossed lovers
At its core, Miss Saigon revolves around the love story between Kim, a young Vietnamese girl, and Chris, an American soldier who found love in a hopeless place. Their journey forms the backbone of the show, but I’ll admit, I was a bit sceptical. It felt like I was third-wheeling on a relationship that went from zero to true love faster than you can say “Saigon”. That said, Abigail Adriano as Kim and Nigel Huckle as Chris gave it their all, their voices soaring through the theatre with raw emotion.
One of the most striking aspects of Miss Saigon is its reliance on music to drive the narrative. The show features more songs than spoken dialogue, which may surprise those expecting a more traditional theatrical experience. While this took some getting used to, I found myself tapping my feet to numbers like The Heat is On in Saigon and getting goosebumps during The Movie in My Mind.
A spectacular spectacle
The real star of the show, at least in my opinion, is the set design. The set transforms seamlessly from the grimy Saigon bar known as “Dreamland” to the streets of Bangkok, creating a constantly evolving backdrop that keeps the audience engaged as the plot thickens. And the helicopter scene in the second act that everyone’s talking about? It’s worth watching at least once in your life because you’ll probably never see anything like it in any other stage production.
While Miss Saigon is undoubtedly a visual and auditory spectacle, it also grapples with weighty themes that linger long after the final bow. The story of Kim’s sacrifice for her child raises poignant questions about the lengths a parent will go to secure a better future for their children. It’s a universal theme that resonates deeply, especially in a society like Singapore where the pursuit of a better life for the next generation is ingrained in our cultural fabric.
On a lighter note…
While the plot between the main leads may feel sombre at times, Seann Miley Moore’s portrayal of the Engineer, the sleazy yet charismatic hustler, provides much-needed comic relief while also serving as a stark reminder of the moral ambiguity that pervades times of war and desperation.
While Miss Saigon may not be perfect – its pacing can be uneven, and some may find the love story a bit contrived – it’s undeniably a powerful piece of theatre that has stood the test of time. The combination of stunning visuals, emotive performances, and timeless themes creates an experience that’s entertaining and thought-provoking.
Miss Saigon, multiple shows until 29 September 2024, tickets from $60; Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
