æ: If you had to explain what the play Mardi Gras is in a short phrase, what would you say?
The boys (from left): Rick Tan, Hossan Leong, Paerin Choa, Jimmy T and the girls (from left): Corinne Adrienne, Natalie Hennedige and Irene Ang. The play also stars Garrett Hoo and Kumar. Photos by Wee Khim.
rick: A sensational play that addresses groundbreaking issues.
æ: If this play were staged abroad...?
paerin: I would get to perform overseas!!!
rick: It would be as welcome abroad 'cause it touches everyone's life one way or another. Mardi Gras is an event that will eventually bring not only GLBTs but anyone with an open mind together.
æ: What's most fun/ best thing about Mardi Gras for you?
paerin: I feel like I'm acting in a sitcom on stage!!!
rick: It's wonderful to work with Haresh, who is a fantastic writer who understands humanity, and Alvin, who has given us such great, layered directions. And I've come to know Garrett so well that he has become the most important person in my life.
æ: Which Mardi Gras character do you think is the most attractive? Why?
paerin: Definitely Su Marican. She makes fag hags look cool. And she's got the best lines.
rick: My character Clement is so far the most colourful of all. He is a complex number to deal with. I guess you guys have to go catch it in the theatre to see his journey.
æ: Describe the character you play in two words.
paerin (who plays Brian): Repressed and vulnerable.
rick (who plays Clement): Considerate slut.
æ: Tell us one juicy piece of info you found out while rehearsing for Mardi Gras.
paerin: Nothing that is printable...
rick: I will tell you when you become my good friend.
æ: Is Mardi Gras just another gay play?
paerin: It's a LOCAL gay play. It's funny and it's daring.
rick: It's not just a gay play; it's a groundbreaking project for Singapore theatre.
æ: If there's a Mardi Gras in Singapore, what's the one thing you'd like to see in the festivities?
paerin: Free booze.
rick: Talented GLBTs perform many varieties of mind-boggling art and sports on floats and stage.
'Mardi Gras' plays from 13-17 August 2003 at Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel at 8pm; 3pm matinees on Saturday and Sunday. All Fridae members enjoy a 20% discount on $71 & $51 tickets as well as The Rainbow Package ($111). Discount does not apply to online sales. For more details, check out Sistic, www.necessary.org or call 6440 8115. 'Mardi Gras' is part of The Necessary Stage's Fundraising Drive.
This article has been contributed by The Necessary Stage.