Moonlit City is a new original Mandarin musical that pulls back the curtain on the tender love story of Lee Kuan Yew and Kwa Geok Choo — two of the most iconic figures in Singapore’s history.
Produced by Toy Factory Productions, the musical marks a dual celebration: Singapore’s 60th National Day and the theatre company’s 35th anniversary. It offers a refreshingly human lens on a couple often remembered for their political legacy, but whose private devotion and emotional resilience remain largely unseen.
Directed by Toy Factory’s Chief Artistic Director Goh Boon Teck, and written by up-and-coming playwright Jedidiah Huang, the musical traces the couple’s relationship across six decades — from their early student years to nation-building days — capturing the emotional heartbeat behind the headlines.
What sets Moonlit City apart is its deep-rooted connection to Singaporean music. The musical draws from eight beloved songs by veteran composer Tan Kah Beng, including nostalgic hits like:
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‘Moonlight in the City’（城里的月光）
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‘The Sun After the Rain’（阳光总在风雨后）
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‘Regret’（遗憾）
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‘Spreading’（蔓延）
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‘Aroma’（咖啡香）
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‘Midnight Arrival’（都是夜归人）
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‘In the Midst of Chaos’（迷乱）
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‘Take Me Away’（带我走）
These tracks have been given a new theatrical treatment by acclaimed music director Benny Wong, blending familiar melodies with emotionally-charged arrangements that complement the onstage storytelling. This marks the world’s first stage production inspired by ‘Moonlight in the City’, one of the most recognisable Mandarin ballads in Singapore.
Kwa Geok Choo’s story takes centre stage in this retelling. Known to many as Lee Kuan Yew’s partner, the musical reframes her as a pillar of strength in her own right — an elite lawyer, a mother, and a quiet force behind Singapore’s stability. Her contributions, often overshadowed, are portrayed with nuance and grace, offering a refreshing counterpoint to traditional male-centric narratives.
The show’s set, designed by director Goh himself, evokes a dreamlike balance between history and intimacy. “The stage will juxtapose the solemnity of the city with the softness of moonlight,” he shares. “Through shadow and light, we reveal their inner worlds — the side of history that photographs can’t show.”
The production’s commitment to historical authenticity is clear in its detailed research — from costume design to soundscapes that bring mid-century Singapore to life. The technical team features Marc Andre Therrien (Technical Director), Alberta Wileo (Lighting Designer), and Vick Low (Sound Engineer), among others.
Stepping into the lead roles are Timothy Wan and Sunny Yang, backed by an ensemble of homegrown talent: Katherine Tang, Joel Low, Misha Paule Tan, Clement Yeo, Mabel Yeo, and Joel Tan.
Purchase tickets here.
