We attended the opening night at the Victoria Theatre in Singapore and enjoyed this uncomplicated, but very funny stage show
If you enjoy a light-hearted, slapstick comedy – with a fun Singaporean take – you will love the play, Boeing Boeing, by W!LD RICE.
Since its Parisian premiere in December 1960, Boeing Boeing has been listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most performed French play throughout the world. The play was also adapted into a Hollywood movie, starring Tony Curtis and Jerry Lewis.
The storyline is simple: it’s about a bachelor, Bernard, and his crazy plan to have three beautiful fiances, all air stewardesses – Miss Singapore, Miss India and Miss China. With their busy work schedules, they fly in and out of town, and with Bernard’s careful planning, each takes their turn to be Bernard’s squeeze, without knowing of the others’ existence… until their schedules change. Due to typhoons, volcanic ash and faster planes, Bernard’s careful planning falls apart.
We loved the performances, and the adaptation to Singapore life – especially with Bibeth Orteza as Roza, Bernard’s domestic helper who has to keep up with the girlfriends and the different cuisines they prefer. She repeatedly cries “It’s not eas-sy!” with Bernard’s multiple requests.
And Judee Tan’s performance as Jin Jin, Miss China, was side-splitting. I am not sure whether she was intending on being as funny as she was (her mainland Chinese accent – which sometimes sounded slightly Russian and German – was particularly hilarious), but regardless, the audience was in an uproar with laughter with her overly dramatic take.
Finally Shane Mardjuki’s performance as Bernard’s friend, Robert Tan, was a standout. You couldn’t help falling for this character who swung between naughty lover-boy to confused and unhelpful friend.
If you are after a night out of belly-laughing, Boeing Boeing is a sure bet.
Catch Boeing Boeing at the Victoria Theatre until 22 July. Tickets from $45-$80 at SISTIC.
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