Production manager turned theatre director Tan Liting worked with the punk community for 18 months as part of her research for Taking The Subs, a part musical, part punk retrospective. She shares her thoughts on the process.
By Tan Liting
Friday 21 and Saturday 22 November 2014, 8pm
The Substation Theatre
Admission: $20 / $15 (concession), available from The Substation box office. $35 (Performance + Punk gig, available only on Friday)
What are the challenges you've faced in bringing punk culture to the stage?
One of the biggest issues for me is whether I am presenting the culture and the community in the 'right' way. So I struggled with that a lot, and I was worried that the show would alienate the punk community rather than relate to them. But after many sessions and discussions I realized that no matter what I do or say I will definitely offend someone, and so I decided not to worry too much. Once that happened the process was much smoother.
What's the most important piece of advice that your mentors have shared with you?
Someone told me I was crazy. And I interpreted that I should embrace it and let it guide me along. I think that piece of advice was crucial in getting me through this process.
What do you hope the audience will take away from the show?
I hope the audience has a good time. And maybe learn to live punk for a while.
This presentation is part of The Substation's Directors' Lab programme.
You can view the page at http://www.soft.com.sg/forum/content.php?380-Taking-The-Subs
Last edited:
