Jean Tay, the acclaimed playwright behind hits like Boom and Everything but The Brain, has once again captured the imagination of audiences with her latest creation: SmartyPants and the Swordfish. Set against Singapore’s rich history, this immersive and interactive theatrical experience offers much more than mere entertainment. With themes ranging from exploring local legends to a poignant examination of bullying, this production promises to leave a lasting impact on its viewers.
Image from Gateway Arts
Unraveling the Legend
The narrative of SmartyPants and the Swordfish unfolds as a group of curious students embark on a quest to uncover the truth behind the legend of Redhill. Led by directors Samantha Scott-Blackhall and Tan Beng Tian, the audience is transported into a world where myths come to life, and history intertwines with contemporary issues. As the layers of the story are peeled away, audiences are invited to witness the struggles of a young kampung boy and the sinister forces that led to his demise at the hands of a jealous sultan.
Inclusivity Takes Center Stage
What sets SmartyPants and the Swordfish apart is its commitment to inclusivity. The collaborative staging features a diverse cast of mainstream actors and artists with disabilities who skillfully manoeuvre colourful puppets to bring the story to life. This integration emphasises the importance of empathy and respect for one another. It serves as a platform for intellectually disabled artists to showcase their talents and gain recognition within the creative community.
Empowering Dialogue
Beyond its captivating storytelling, SmartyPants and the Swordfish sparks important conversations about power dynamics and bullying. Through post-show dialogues, young audiences are encouraged to reflect on these themes and explore strategies for prevention. This transformative experience not only entertains but also educates, empowering viewers to become agents of positive change in their communities.
An Accessible Experience for All
Gateway Theatre’s Black Box ensures everyone can participate in this theatrical journey. From sensory-friendly performances to wheelchair accessibility, no one is left out of the experience. Creative Captioning, Creative Audio Description, Singapore Sign Language Interpretation, and Speech-To-Text Interpretation further enhance accessibility, making this production truly inclusive for all audiences.
Image from Gateway Arts
SmartyPants and the Swordfish is more than just a play; it celebrates diversity, empathy, and the power of storytelling to inspire change. Jean Tay and the creative team behind this production have crafted a truly unforgettable experience by weaving together elements of history, inclusivity, and social commentary. So, join us at Gateway Theatre’s Black Box and embark on a journey that will touch your heart, stimulate your mind, and leave you with renewed hope for a more inclusive future.
SmartyPants and the Swordfish is proudly co-presented by ART:DIS (Arts & Disability Singapore) and Gateway Arts. For inquiries and assistance regarding accessibility options, please contact [email protected] before purchasing tickets.
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