Journey to Singapura《新游记》 Returns by Popular Demand

An Original Musical Play by Dr Liang Wern Fook — A Love Letter to Singapore in Celebration of SG60

After a sold-out debut earlier this year, Journey to Singapura《新游记》, the much-acclaimed original musical play by Singapore Cultural Medallion recipient Dr Liang Wern Fook, returns to the stage by popular demand this October. Audiences who missed the first run — and those eager for a second chance — will be thrilled as this heartfelt production takes place at the Gateway Theatre Black Box on Saturday, 25 October at 7:30 PM and Sunday, 26 October at 2:30 PM.

Tickets go on sale today, 23 July at 10:00 AM, exclusively via SISTIC.com.sg, and strong demand is expected.

A Musical Love Letter to Singapore

Journey to Singapura is not just a musical — it is a profound love letter to Singapore, created especially to commemorate the nation’s 60th anniversary (SG60). Blending myth, history, and the vibrant everyday lives of Singaporeans, the play invites audiences on a magical journey of discovery, identity, and unity.

Through a creative reimagining of the classic Journey to the West tale, playwright Garrick Wong crafts a story where Tang Sanzang and his disciples — Sun Wukong, Zhu Bajie, and Sha Wujing — find themselves transported to present-day Singapore. Here, they encounter familiar sights, sounds, and characters, from the lively hawker centres and HDB void decks to iconic historical figures such as Sang Nila Utama and Stamford Raffles, as well as beloved local personas including the Red Head Scarf women and Majie.

“This musical is a tribute to Singapore’s unique spirit — its resilience, diversity, and hope,” shares Dr Liang. “It celebrates who we are, where we come from, and what we aspire to be as a nation.”

An Enchanting Blend of Myth and Local Culture

The story unfolds as the mystical Durian Master and his faithful assistants Tian Fu and Tian Shou guide the travellers through a city filled with contrasts — tradition and modernity, myth and reality, the sacred and the ordinary. The play deftly weaves humour, poignant moments, and catchy xinyao-inspired songs into a tapestry that resonates deeply with audiences of all ages.

World-Class Creative Team and Musical Excellence

Produced by the award-winning Ruan & Percussion Ensemble 回响吹打团, Journey to Singapura benefits from a stellar lineup of creative talents:

• Dr Liang Wern Fook — Composer, Lyricist, and Artistic Director, whose celebrated body of work has shaped Singapore’s musical and literary landscape for decades.

• Garrick Wong 王嘉翊 — Director and Playwright, a multi-talented media professional bringing fresh vision and theatrical finesse.

• Law Si Wei 骆思卫 — Arranger and Music Director, crafting the evocative musical arrangements that bring the story to life.

• Tan Ching Loon 陈庆伦 — Ensemble Artistic Director, leading a vibrant group of young musicians renowned for their energetic and precise performances.

The ensemble’s international acclaim includes winning the Gold Award in the Instrumental Ensemble category at the prestigious Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod in the United Kingdom, achieving a rare perfect score. This global recognition highlights Singapore’s growing prominence on the world arts stage.

Featuring a Dynamic and Charismatic Cast

• Chien Han Qun 钱翰群 brings warmth and authenticity as the Durian Master, a character that embodies the heartland spirit and local humour. Han Qun’s journey back to acting and into musical theatre adds a layer of genuine passion and reliability.

• Shen Weijun 沈炜竣 plays the venerable Tang Sanzang, his commanding stage presence and rich vocal abilities embodying the spiritual core of the story.

• Yilin 易凌 captivates as Bai Ji Jing (White Chicken Spirit), injecting playful charm and heartfelt emotion, despite humbly calling herself “tone-deaf.”

  Zhuo Yi 卓奕, known for his strong stage and screen presence, surprises audiences as he takes on a comic yet layered portrayal of Zhu Bajie (Pigsy), balancing humor and humanity.

  
  

📅 PERFORMANCE DETAILS:

• Dates: Friday, 25 October 2025 (7:30 PM) & 26 October 2025 (2:30 PM)

• Venue: Gateway Theatre Black Box

• Ticket Prices: $80, $68, $58, $45

• Tickets: Available from 23 July 2025, 10:00 AM exclusively via SISTIC.com.sg

  
  

Taking Singapore Stories Beyond Borders

Building on its domestic success, Journey to Singapura is set to embark on an international tour in January 2026, with performances scheduled in Hong Kong. This milestone marks one of the first original Singaporean Chinese-language musicals to be showcased on an overseas stage, reflecting the growing appreciation for Singapore’s rich cultural narratives across Asia.

A Must-See for SG60 and Beyond

Whether you’re revisiting this beloved production or joining the journey for the first time, Journey to Singapura《新游记》 offers a magical theatrical experience filled with laughter, reflection, and nostalgia. It is a celebration of Singapore’s unique heritage, its people, and its ongoing story.