Armed with a tape recorder, Sarah, an ambitious young oral historian, begins the task of interviewing Mrs Siraj, who recounts her youth and romance under the Japanese Occupation. As she listens to these stories of the past, Sarah struggles with questions of her own life in modern day Singapore and what the future holds.
Twenty years after its standout premiere, Occupation continues to captivate audiences with its lyrical and moving account of tender love and bold passions. Acclaimed playwright Huzir Sulaiman chronicles the extraordinary legacy found in the true story of his grandmother, Mrs Mohamed Siraj, as it intertwines with the reflections of the fictional character Sarah.
Skillfully directed by Claire Wong and performed by Rebekah Sangeetha Dorai and Isabella Chiam, with live music by Joel Nah and sound design by Shah Tahir, Occupation is a vivid and intimate journey through memories of love and loss and its promise of new beginnings.
Playwright: Huzir Sulaiman
Director: Claire Wong
Cast: Rebekah Sangeetha Dorai, Isabella Chiam
Musical Performer: Joel Nah
Sound Designer: Shah Tahir
Lighting Designer: Liu Yong Huay
Production Manager: Izz Sumono
(Source: Checkpoint Theatre Website)