Theatrical Brilliance at KLPAC: Gala opening of The Sisters Soong

As the lights dimmed and the first notes of the live music filled the space, I found myself immediately drawn into the world of The Sisters Soong. Penned by the acclaimed playwright Joe Hasham OAM, the play tells the story of three sisters—Ai-ling, Ching-ling, and Mei-ling—whose lives and marriages played pivotal roles in shaping modern China history. These women were not merely witnesses to history but active participants in the political and social transformations of their time. The narrative weaves together their personal and public lives, revealing the complexities and challenges they faced as they navigated the turbulent waters of early 20th-century China.

The soothing live score, masterfully directed and conducted by Lee Kok Leong, with Yong Tan as composer. The music was not merely an accompaniment but a character in its own right, adding depth and emotion to the unfolding drama. The delicate blend of Eastern and Western influences in the composition reflected the sisters' lives—rooted in Chinese tradition yet profoundly shaped by their Western education and experiences. The composition, taking the audience through the ebbs and flows of the sisters' tumultuous lives, was a living, breathing element of the performance, underscoring the drama and amplifying the pathos in each act.

Omar Ali delivers brilliant performance as the narrator

The narration, delivered by the ever-talented Omar Ali, was another highlight of the evening. His performance was nothing short of brilliant, guiding the audience through the complex historical and emotional landscapes of the play with a mix of humor, wit, and gravitas. The narration, while providing context, never overshadowed the actors on stage but rather complemented their performances, creating a seamless transition between scenes. Omar’s ability to blend historical exposition with contemporary flair made the rich tapestry of the sisters’ lives resonate even more profoundly with the audience. His laid-back style contrasted beautifully with the intensity of the drama unfolding on stage, providing moments of levity without ever detracting from the seriousness of the subject matter.

The acting was, of course, another cornerstone of the evening’s success. The cast brought the characters to life with a depth and authenticity that was both moving and thought-provoking. Each actor inhabited their role with a commitment that drew the audience into the world of the play, making us feel as though we were witnessing the lives of the Soong sisters develop before our eyes. The chemistry between the actors was palpable, adding to the emotional weight of the story and making the relationships between the characters feel genuine and complex. The portrayal of Ai-ling, the eldest sister, was moving, capturing her strength in the face of a rapidly changing world; Ching-ling’s revolutionary fervor and resilience; and Mei-ling’s diplomatic acumen and wit were also brought to life with a realism that left a lasting impression.

The production's success was not solely due to the onstage performances but also to the meticulous work of the entire creative team. The set design, lighting, and sound all worked in harmony to create an immersive experience that transported the audience into the world of the Soong sisters. The set, with its intricate details and thoughtful symbolism, was a visual feast, while the lighting masterfully highlighted the emotional peaks and valleys of the narrative.

As someone deeply involved in the world of bespoke tailoring, I found myself particularly captivated by the costumes. The attention to detail in the wardrobe was nothing short of extraordinary, especially the suits worn by the male characters. The suits were a sight to behold; it was very obvious that they were crafted to perfection. The fit, drape, and silhouette of the garments were impeccable, showcasing the skill and dedication of the costume designer, Beatrice Looi, and reflecting the high standards of craftsmanship that are often lost in modern productions. One detail that caught my eye was a jacket worn by the character Charlie Soong, father of the three sisters, (played by Season Chee) featuring a Milanese buttonhole—a detail that, while not historically accurate for the time setting of the story, spoke to the level of craftsmanship involved. The inclusion of such a feature, known for its elegance, elevated the costumes from mere clothing to works of art. This subtle yet striking detail shows the dedication and passion that Beatrice Looi brought to her work. Hats off to her splendid contribution to the visual storytelling of the play.

As the final act concluded and the curtain fell, the audience erupted in applause, a fitting tribute to the outstanding performances and the incredible work of the entire production team. It was a night that will be etched in my memory for years to come—a testament to the power of theatre to move, inspire, and provoke thought. The evening was truly a celebration of the rich cultural tapestry that continues to be woven by dedicated artists like Dato’ Dr. Faridah Merican and her team.

However, one thought continues to linger in my mind. It struck me as unusual that this masterpiece premiered on the night of August 31st, the time when the nation was still basking in the glow of the Merdeka celebrations, with the spirit of independence and unity permeating the air. The morning had seen the streets come alive with the Merdeka Parade, a vibrant display of national pride and heritage. The entire city was still buzzing with the patriotic energy from the morning’s parade, and the festive atmosphere carried over into the evening. Meanwhile, the Soong sisters, throughout their lives, were closely associated with the Kuomintang, married to its leader, and were devoted to its cause—a subject that might be sensitive in the context of Malaysia's own historical experiences. Yet, I must say, this thought-provoking choice added another layer of complexity to an already compelling narrative.

Humbly, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Dato’ Dr. Faridah Merican, Joe Hasham OAM, the cast, and the entire production team for their exceptional work on The Sisters Soong. It was a night of theatrical brilliance, a perfect fusion of narrative, performance, and artistry. The play is a triumph in every sense, and I am deeply grateful to have had the opportunity to witness such a remarkable event. It is evenings like these that remind me why the theatre is so close to my heart—a tradition of storytelling that transcends time, bringing people together to share in the beauty and complexity of the human experience.

The Sisters Soong Showtime

31 August (Sat), 4 - 7 September (Wed - Sat) @ 8pm
1 & 8 September (Sun) @ 3pm with post-show talk

Location: Pentas 1, KLPAC

Dress Code: Smart Casual

Buy tickets HERE

Contributor

Amir Benzaki

Amir Benzaki is a realtor, with profound appreciation for gentlemanly culture and timeless elegance. He finds solace in his passion for suit-making at the small sartoria he owns. Balancing his professional life with his love for classic tailoring.

Instagram: @amirbenzaki