Interview: Michael Chiang

How do you feel about Beauty World making its fourth comeback in almost three decades?

I feel a bit like a proud father watching his child enter a new phase in life! [Laughs] It's always a thrill to be able to introduce the show to new audiences, especially current 20-somethings who weren't even born when the show was first staged in 1988.

I actually have a strong sentimental connection with Beauty World because, like the protagonist Ivy Chan, I also moved from a small town [Muar] to Singapore in the '60s. But I was only in primary school and didn't end up in a cabaret, in case you were wondering!

What new elements can we expect from this staging of the musical?

Compared to the last production by Wild Rice in 2008, this version is going to feel smaller and more intimate. Though the comedic elements won't be toned down, the cabaret itself will be less happy and shiny, and certainly less welcoming for our innocent heroine.

What’s your favourite thing about Beauty World?

It's hard to pick one. I often find myself quite teary watching Beauty World – sometimes triggered by a scene, other times by the lines from a song. Must confess that this is one very 'emo' production for me!

The musical has many milestones associated with it – do you view this production as one?

Yes, this new production is another milestone in many ways: it's being directed by Dick for the first time, it's headlined by an A-list TV star [Jeanette Aw], and I think the four-week run is the longest the musical has ever had.

How has the local theatre scene changed since the musical was first staged?

It's definitely more dynamic now than it was in 1988! There are a lot more productions today, which means there's steady, quality work for the theatre community. You've got awards that recognise the best in Singapore theatre, and we're also seeing our stage productions brought to overseas festivals. How cool is that?