A Singapore Idol finalist and 987FM radio DJ, Tabitha shares her thoughts on the poignant rock musical, her dream vacay, and tips on looking good
You might’ve already seen her face or heard her voice; after all, Tabitha Nauser is one homegrown talent with many tricks up her sleeve. A former contestant of the 2009 season of Singapore Idol, current DJ at 987fm – a popular English radio station, and beauty and fashion influencer, Tabitha is indeed a force to be reckoned with. Adding on to her outstanding accolades, she recently took on the challenging role of Mimi Marquez (a troubled club dancer) in Pangdemonium‘s most anticipated theatre production of its 2016 season – the famous rock musical, RENT. Thrilled and stoked for her new chapter in theatre, we chatted with the beautiful Tabitha and picked her brains for an inside scoop on RENT, her go-to local dish, and what’s coming up for her.
Hi Tabitha! What’s the hardest thing when rehearsing for a musical, as compared to a concert?
Concerts are pretty tough to rehearse for too. As a singer, my number one priority is to make sure that I sound amazing. In musical theatre, you have to sound great as well, but there’s more emphasis on storytelling. So sometimes, it’s okay to sound “ugly” because that helps with the character and the message. That’s taken me some time to get used to.
Do you share any similarities with your character, Mimi?
Mimi is a very complex character; she’s dealing with a lot of things. I think we’re similar in the way that she loves life, loves having fun and loves making lasting human connections with people – just like me.
Which song from RENT’s repertoire do you think encapsulates your life right now, and why?
This is an easy one – “Seasons Of Love”. It’s a song about your time on earth – how love shapes your experiences, creates connections and affects decisions in that particular time, and reflects on what you’ve accomplished thus far.
What are some of your personal favourite musicals growing up?
When I was younger, The Sound Of Music was my jam! Literally, the only musical I could listen to all day and not get sick of, even ’til this day.
If there was one thing you could rent (and maybe never give back), what would it be and why?
A vacation house in the Maldives, so I could escape for a couple of days to its beautiful beaches [laughs]. I’m always thinking about my next holiday.
It goes without saying that looking good on stage is important. Any tips on how you stay fabulous and fresh?
As far as I’m concerned, mattifying foundations are the best creation in the world. I could run 2.4km and no one would know any better. And of course, a perk-me-up perfume – my favourite scent is something creamy with vanilla or coconut.
If you were a local dish, what dish would you be and why?
Without a doubt, cheese prata. It’s mainly because I love cheese prata, but also ‘cos I’m half-Swiss, half-Indian, so that’s the perfect combination of both worlds.
Lastly, what’s next for you after RENT? Do you see yourself pushing on in the musical or theatre scene?
Well, I’ll be releasing original music. I’ve got two singles lined up, which I’m very excited about. So keep a look out for them!
Catch Tabitha Nauser as Mimi in RENT, Pangdemonium’s highly anticipated musical production in its 2016 season. Happening from 7 to 23 October 2016 at the Drama Centre Theatre at National Library, the production is supported by an impressive creative team and stellar cast. Tickets can be bought from SISTIC and are priced from $30 to $95.
