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‘Moonlit City’ Shines a Spotlight on the Enduring Love of Lee Kuan Yew and Kwa Geok Choo

In celebration of Singapore’s 60th National Day and Toy Factory Productions’ 35th anniversary, a new Mandarin musical is set to take the stage — Moonlit City, a heartfelt tribute to the lifelong romance between Singapore’s founding father Lee Kuan Yew and his wife, Kwa Geok Choo. This original production explores their bond not only as a couple but also as nation-builders who quietly shaped the course of Singapore’s history.

Set against the backdrop of a growing nation, Moonlit City offers an intimate look at the lesser-known emotional side of a six-decade partnership — the daily sacrifices, the quiet strength, and the unwavering devotion behind closed doors. It’s a tender love story that humanises two iconic figures while tracing the resilience that propelled Singapore forward.

At the heart of the musical is the evocative music of renowned Singaporean composer Tan Kah Beng. Featuring eight of his timeless hits — including Moonlight in the City, The Sun After the Rain, and Midnight Arrival — the production marks the first time these beloved songs are reimagined for the theatre. With lush new arrangements by music director Benny Wong, these classics form the emotional spine of a narrative that bridges music, memory, and national identity.

Beyond the love story, Moonlit City places a powerful spotlight on the role of women in shaping history — particularly Kwa Geok Choo’s often-overlooked contributions. A brilliant lawyer, a devoted mother, and Lee Kuan Yew’s steadfast confidante, Kwa’s influence was profound yet quietly rendered. Her strength, wisdom, and grace are brought to the fore, offering a refreshing and inspiring portrayal of female resilience during a pivotal era.

Bringing this vision to life is rising playwright Jedidiah Huang, known for his sensitive and poetic storytelling, and a stellar cast led by Timothy Wan and Sunny Yang. Backed by a six-member ensemble, the performers promise a stirring journey through love, loss, and legacy.

Visually, Moonlit City transports audiences to 1950s Singapore — a world of elegant qipaos, tailored suits, and timeless hairstyles, recreated with exquisite attention to detail. Every costume, prop, and lighting cue has been carefully researched to authentically capture the beauty of a bygone era.

The production premieres at Gateway Theatre in Bukit Merah, a fitting venue steeped in local culture and storytelling. Known for supporting Singapore-made works, the theatre will set the stage for an immersive, emotionally rich musical experience that celebrates not just a couple, but a country’s rise.

Synopsis

Every city has a thousand love stories – the classical city has romance myths, the young city has love poems, and the city of stars has a history of love. Singapore is an island nation that was founded only 60 years ago, but it has a rich history as a bustling city that goes beyond that. More than a century ago, the birth of two legendary Singaporeans, Lee Kuan Yew and Kwa Geok Choo began their lifelong romance with the ups and downs of the nation’s journey.

Creative Team