Experience a poignant tale of growth, grief, and the enduring bond between parent and child as Isabella Chiam, a renowned theatremaker and Practice Associate Artist, unveils her first original monodrama, “The Last Gardener,” set to debut this April. Presented by The Theatre Practice (Practice), this one-woman show promises to captivate audiences with its heartfelt narrative and subtle humor.
Finding Inspiration in Growth and Gardening
“The Last Gardener” blossomed during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of Practice’s innovative “It’s Not About The Numbers” series, garnering widespread acclaim. Initially conceived as an intimate gardening workshop for small audiences, the play draws from Chiam’s personal passion for gardening, which flourished during the lockdown period. Through tending to plants, Chiam found solace and a renewed connection with her father, who shares her love for gardening.
The production is also influenced by the touching story of Abu Ward, the Last Gardener of Aleppo, who cultivated life amidst war-torn surroundings, leaving behind a legacy of hope embodied by his son, Ibrahim.
A New Chapter Unfolds: From Workshop to Monodrama
Building on the success of its initial workshop format, “The Last Gardener” is set to evolve into a full-fledged monodrama staged in a larger black box setting. This expanded version delves deeper into the life of the protagonist, Eve, portrayed by Chiam herself. Through Eve’s journey from young adulthood to motherhood, the play explores themes of family dynamics and the passage of time, using the metaphor of gardening to convey its emotional depth.
Chiam embarks on this transformative journey alongside director Tan Shou Chen and co-writer Cheyenne Alexandria Phillips, both esteemed figures in the Singaporean arts scene.
Cultivating Artistic Talent with Practice
As part of Practice’s commitment to nurturing local talent, “The Last Gardener” represents a significant milestone in Chiam’s artistic career. Since joining the Practice Associate Artist Programme in 2020, Chiam has showcased her versatility as a performer, director, and assistant director in various productions across Singapore.
Tickets for “The Last Gardener” are now available for purchase on BookMyShow, offering audiences an opportunity to witness the culmination of Chiam’s creative vision in this deeply personal and evocative performance.
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