Categories: Reviews

Titoudao Review – The Spirit of Wayang Endures

About Titoudao


Picture courtesy of Toy Factory

Re-staged for the fifth time, Titoudao is based on the life of Mdm Oon Ah Chiam, a popular Chinese street opera actress in the 50s and 60s. The play follows her life and the rise and fall of wayang, interspersed with scenes from Titoudao, where Mdm Oon plays the titular character. 

Directed by Goh Boon Teck and starring Audrey Luo as Mdm Oon, Titoudao brings the golden era of wayang back to life.

Titoudao Review

Before the show, I was dreading the wayang scenes. Bad childhood memories made me less than fond of screeching voices and I don’t understand a word of dialect. But don’t worry, there are subtitles. 

Titoudao has all the elements of traditional wayang – performed in dialect, with shrill instrumentals, elaborate costumes and a plot that’s too easily resolved. Yet, it remains light-hearted and entertaining by poking fun at wayang tropes. And most surprisingly, the play was funny! The crossdressing characters made for some truly hilarious moments.Picture courtesy of Toy Factory

There’s no denying that the cast was excellent. The youngest cast to stage Titoudao, their energy was infectious, but their youth might be against them. The heavier, more emotional scenes were played with passion, but the emotions portrayed felt a tad artificial. 

I was amazed by the cast’s fluency in English, Mandarin and Hokkien. The actors switched from one language to another seamlessly and there were some “lost in translation” moments that were comedic gold. The cast’s talent is limitless – they can sing, act, speak more languages than you can and deliver some excellent one-liners.Picture courtesy of Toy Factory

The little details are easily overlooked, but they made Titoudao so much more compelling. The scene transitions occasionally included onstage costume changes, making the play seem more realistic and drawing a stark contrast between the static wayang characters and Mdm Oon’s complex life. 

Final Thoughts

The charm of Titoudao lies in its cohesiveness. The harmony of the cast, coupled with purposeful staging and meaningful direction, inspires a deep sense of nostalgia. 

The play feels like an intimate behind-the-scenes look at a wayang actress’ life. Older audience members would leave the play reminiscing about the good old times. As for me, I left the play seeing wayang in a new light, with newfound respect for the craft.

Wayang sure die when we die,” says Mdm Oon. Titoudao acknowledges the inevitability of wayang’s decline, but offers us a rose-coloured glimpse of its heyday.

Ticketing Details

Dates and Times: 5 – 14 March. Tue – Fri 3 p.m., 8 p.m., Sat & Sun, 3 p.m. 
Tickets: $49 – 69 from SISTIC.
Venue: Drama Centre Theatre. 100 Victoria Street Level 3, National Library Building, Singapore 188064


This post was brought to you by Toy Factory Productions.

Amanda Lee

Amanda Lee leads a secret double life as a unicorn trainer.

Recent Posts

This Johor Farm Has Animal Feeding, Sky Lanterns & $46/Night Chalets, Lift Any Baaad Mood

Old MacDonald had a farm, but we bet it isn't as close to SG as…

November 4, 2024

16 Beach Clubs In Bali To Relax and Unwind At, Includes Kid-Friendly & Affordable Options

Boozin' by the beach in Bali sounds like a good plan.

November 4, 2024

5 Steps To Take The Next Time You Have A Medical Concern, Instead Of Googling Your Symptoms

There is a free service where you can get professional advice on what to do…

November 3, 2024

There’s A 6-Storey Toy Mall In Bangkok To Buy Labubu, Rare Blind Boxes & Vintage Figurines

This toy mall in Bangkok is your next spot to hunt for Labubu and limited-edition…

November 2, 2024

Guide To Desaru Coast Adventure Waterpark – Including Hotels Nearby & How To Get There From SG

Includes kid-friendly attractions and exhilarating rides alike. Nearby accommodation options range from affordable and fuss-free…

November 2, 2024