19 years since its debut in Quebec, Robert Lepage’s iconic The Far Side of the Moon comes to Singapore. Following a successful run in over 45 cities around the world, the French-Canadian auteur's masterpiece takes over Esplanade's theatre for just two days on November 1 and 2.
The theatrical work is performed solo by the critically acclaimed Canadian actor Yves Jacques, and follows an international space race to the moon between the Americans and the Russians. The witty and inventive staging sets its cosmic gaze on Philippe, a struggling introverted philosopher, and his younger brother André, a successful TV weatherman. The estranged pair are drawn together, coming to grips with the death of their mother.
Jacques' poignant acting and Lepage's work seamlessly combine in this emotionally arresting exploration of both outer and inner space that you simply can't miss. Audiences are reminded that the path to reconciliation often starts with one small step. Make the leap and book your tickets here today.
Time Out Singapore in partnership with Esplanade
Review
It’s mind-blowing to think that The Far Side of the Moon is a one-man show. Yves Jacques’ acting is flawless throughout the two-hour staging. The critically acclaimed Canadian actor transitions from Philippe to Andre, their mother, and then a doctor – without missing a beat. He’s even got Lepage’s self-depreciation and witty humour on point. After all, Jacques has been touring with the show since 2004 – and have done about 350 shows since then.
The shapeshifting props are another wizardry altogether. The storyline is made more bewitching by its inventive staging. A tilting mirrored scaffold, a wall of sliding panels, a porthole, and a super sturdy ironing board transform the stage into the different scenes – from the laundromat, to an elevator, conference room, airplane, and even outer space. However, Lepage saved the best scene for the last. The final scene, where he seemingly floats in the vast emptiness of the universe, is perhaps one of the most mesmerising pieces of theatre we’ve seen. It’s the combined result of visual trickery, Laurie Anderson’s otherworldly score, and Jacques’ poignant acting.
The Far Side of the Moon is funny, melancholic, and introspective all at once. It forces us to ponder about the world beyond our solar system, grief, and the miraculous potential of human imagination. A member of the audience was heard saying, “when they talk about the magic of theatre, they really mean Robert Lepage.” And to us, that perfectly sums up the masterful play.
Review by Dewi Nurjuwita