Intensely difficult vocal and dance pieces, brilliant set design work, and an all-rounded talented cast – the latest production of Miss Saigon has all the elements of a classically excellent theatre performance, leaving audiences mentally replaying the musical’s most impactful moments for days on end.
This is one musical that would not have a lasting effect if it weren’t for the set design. Sparing no expense, the production utilises surround sound, props of an enormous proportion, and special lighting effects. The combination is incredibly effective at conveying the sheer volume of the sound of a military conflict. One of the most iconic scenes is the landing and taking off of the helicopter. The attention to detail in this scene – simulated helicopter headlights, hovering sounds travelling across the ceiling of the theatre – complemented by the impressively large helicopter prop on stage is a sight to behold. Miss Saigon would not be the same without the innovative and fresh set.
Anchoring the show’s big, dramatic scenes is Abigail Adriano who played Kim. Her exceptional ability to emote through song lends her character some much-needed depth. Her strong voice conveys a wide range of feelings – love, pain, rage and determination. Adriano performs like a seasoned musical theatre professional, even though this is her professional lead role debut. Other incredible vocalists include Nigel Huckle, playing her American male love interest, and Laurence Mossman, playing Kim’s male Vietnamese suitor. Their belted notes are a delight to witness live.
Supporting the more prominent characters is an incredible ensemble cast which allowed choreographer Richard Jones’ creativity and vision to shine onstage. The choreography that accompanied “The Morning of the Dragon” is a showstopper, containing some of the more difficult and impressive moves in musical theatre.
Miss Saigon is a show packed with dramatic and over-the-top scenes. And tying it all together is the orchestra, playing a beautiful score by Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg. Hats off to musical director Geoffrey Castles and his team of musicians in creating atmospheric swells of sound with palpable emotion.
The cast and crew produce an incredible all-round performance, albeit marred by an outdated storyline with less than nuanced portrayals of women and Asian communities. With a hearty serving of American exceptionalism and white saviourism, the play is riddled with stereotypes, making it difficult to form an emotional attachment to somewhat one-dimensional characters. The cast of Miss Saigon is skilled, so despite the musical’s flaws, their performance leaves a significant impact on the audience.
It must also be noted that Miss Saigon allows talented Asian musical theatre performers to shine. It was the first West End play to feature an Asian woman as the lead, giving opportunities to brilliant talents such as Lea Salonga, and today, to Abigail Adriano, who will hopefully go on to have a long and exciting career in the musical theatre industry.
Miss Saigon is currently playing at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands until Sep 29, 2024. Buy tickets here.
Text by Beverly Anne Devakishen.
