Long before Singapore became a nation, it was a story — and no chapter was more quietly powerful than the enduring love between Lee Kuan Yew and Kwa Geok Choo. Now, as Singapore approaches its 60th National Day, their relationship takes centre stage in Moonlit City — a Mandarin musical that reimagines not just history, but the heartbeat behind it.
Premiering 25 July 2025 at Gateway Theatre, Moonlit City is a bold, original production by Toy Factory Productions, known for their emotionally rich and visually arresting work. Rather than retell the politics of Singapore’s early days, this production shifts its focus to the deeply personal — the unwavering bond between a couple who, together, helped shape a country.
Directed by Goh Boon Teck and written by Jedidiah Huang, the musical traces their relationship through decades of upheaval and transformation. Through quiet gestures, shared ambition, and unspoken strength, it invites the audience to see two of Singapore’s most revered figures not through newspaper headlines, but through letters, glances, and moments of pause. “We often speak of them in political terms,” Goh reflects. “This is a chance to see them simply as husband and wife — united in love and loyalty, even during chaos.”
What elevates the show further is its musical foundation. Featuring eight iconic songs by Singaporean composer Tan Kah Beng — including Moonlight in the City (城里的月光) and The Sun After the Rain (阳光总在风雨后) — the production becomes both a visual and auditory love letter. These familiar tracks, reinterpreted by musical director Benny Wong, take on new meaning as they echo across a stage set in 1950s Singapore.
But perhaps the most poignant spotlight falls on Kwa Geok Choo. Long respected but often overlooked, her story unfolds with quiet power. Portrayed by actress Sunny Yang, Kwa steps into the light as more than a partner — she is the emotional compass of the narrative. As the musical gently reminds us, her influence was never loud, but always lasting.
Visually, Moonlit City transports its audience through time. With period-authentic wardrobe and hairstyling led by Tan Jia Hui and Antonio Cheng, and evocative lighting by Alberta Wileo, the production moves seamlessly from colonial Singapore to a nation on the rise — always grounded in intimacy.
Supported by a standout cast including Timothy Wan, Joel Low, Katherine Tang, Clement Yeo, and Mabel Yeo, the performances are emotionally rich without tipping into melodrama. Their delivery speaks to a generation that still remembers, and a younger one learning what it means to love through resilience.
At its core, Moonlit City is a reminder that nation-building wasn’t just forged in parliament halls — it was also built in shared dreams, evening walks, and mutual respect. In revisiting this story now, the production invites a renewed appreciation for tenderness as strength, and legacy as something personal.
Whether you’re drawn by the music, the history, or the story of two people navigating the weight of a nation — Moonlit City is a chance to see Singapore’s past in a more human light.
Show Details
Gateway Theatre, 3615 Jalan Bukit Merah
25 July – 3 August 2025
2.30PM (Wed–Sun), 7.30PM (Thu–Sat)
Tickets from $48–$98