An inspiring musical for the young dreamers 
by Nicolene Tan and Travis Chan
PURSUANT is an original musical by talented Jonathan Lim (Director), with the help of Chen Zhang Yi (Composer) and Jonathan Lum (Choreographer). Set in the year 2023, PURSUANT takes place in SingaCorp, the future Singapore, where dreaming is banned.
The musical revolves around the life of young Ethan (Windson Liong), a 15-year-old secondary school student whose unstoppable and uncontrollable dreams cause him to be captured by authorities. As dreaming is banned in SingaCorp, he is then sentenced to a CC (no, not community centre, but concentration camp!), where young Singaporeans are brainwashed to suppress their dreams – they can only think of practicalities such as studying, getting scholarships, building a career, and m
aking money.
There, he meets fellow dreamers Hitomi (Mabel Yeo) and Terry (Crystal Cordial) – they share about their dreams by breaking out into a chorus of harmonised tunes and pitch-perfect notes. With the help of a group of vigilantes called Dream On, Ethan and his friends escape. They then venture forward on a quest to find The Old Man who started it all.
The comical and witty script of PURSUANT gave a light-hearted perspective towards life in Singapore; even real-life references like the sticker lady, and “the old man” were made. With such intelligent puns and relevant jokes that the audience can relate to, it’s no wonder that the theatre echoed with laughs and sniggers.
Of course, what is a musical without the cast and music? Windson Liong, having starred in previous products like Toy Factory’s Army Daze, effortlessly pulled off the 15-year-old look and mentality. We even thought he really was a secondary school student at first! Supporting casts Mabel Yeo and Crystal Cordial also showcased their acting and vocal chops excellently.
Chen Zhangyi, composer of PURSUANT, seamlessly weaved the musical pieces together, occasionally sampling from notable local tunes to add in a local flavour. He has previously collaborated with big shots like the London Symphony and Tokyo Philharmonic. Approached by the Singapore Lyric Opera and Children’s Choir, Chen Zhangyi dedicates this piece of artwork to all fellow dreamers.
PURSUANT sported a really inspiring moral behind the story for all young Singaporeans and watching it was indeed a dream come true. And do you know what’s the best part of dreaming in 2013? It isn’t illegal! What are you waiting for? Turn your dreams into reality by catching PURSUANT at the Drama Theatre Centre from 31st May till 8th June!
Dream on, little dreamer!
