Every year, on August 9, Singaporeans don their red and white attire, hang up their flags, and sing patriotic songs in unison. The Red Lions make their breathtaking descents, F16s thunder overhead, and tanks roll across our TV screens. The Kallang Wave surges through the stands, accompanied by laughter, dance, tears, and a collective sense of pride as we commemorate our journey from Third World to First. For many, this is the quintessential Singaporean National Day experience. But what if we could re-imagine this celebration? What new stories could we unveil? Who would we choose to represent us, and what new anthems would we compose?

 

 

Enter National Day Charade, an irreverent satire that simultaneously serves as a heartfelt tribute to our complex relationship with Singapore. This brand-new play by award-winning playwright Thomas Lim invites audiences to laugh, reflect, and engage in conversations about our homeland. Known for his deeply insightful works like Grandmother Tongue and Supervision, Lim once again captures the hearts and minds of his audience with his latest creation.

 

National Day Charade features a stellar cast including Shane Mardjuki, Krish Natarajan, Nurulhuda Hassan, and Deonn Yang, with a special appearance by Andrew Marko. The production’s creative team includes Lighting Designer James Tan, Costume Designer Max Tan, Multimedia Designer Khoo Chia Meng, Hair Designer Ashley Lim, and Make-Up Designer Bobbie Ng.

 

The play runs from July 11 to 27 at The Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre @ Wild Rice, with previews on 11 and July 12 at 7.30pm. Performances are scheduled from Tuesday to Friday at 7.30pm, Saturdays at 2.30pm and 7.30pm, and Sundays at 2.30pm.

Tickets prices ranging from $35 to $75 depending on the day and category. Additional discounts are available for Wild Rice Angels, students, full-time NSFs, and senior citizens, with special group rates for bookings of 20 or more tickets. Don’t miss out on this unique National Day celebration and experience a re-imagined Singaporean celebration.