Show 1: Fri, 16 May, 8pm - 9.30pm

Show 2: Sat, 17 May, 3pm - 4.30pm

Show 3: Sat, 17 May, 8pm - 9.30pm

Show 4: Sun, 18 May, 3pm - 4.30pm

Panel Talk

Sat, 18 May, 4.45pm - 5.30pm

A theatrical production jointly presented by Nam Hwa Opera and The ETCeteras, Out of the Red Box will take centre stage at Kreta Ayer People's Theatre from 16 May to 18 May, 2025. This groundbreaking performance masterfully integrates traditional Chinese opera with Getai, shining a spotlight on two of Singapore’s disappearing art forms.

Out of the Red Box is a cultural celebration that bridges the past and the present. Presented in Mandarin and various dialects, this production fuses elements of Getai, traditional opera and contemporary music to craft a truly unique stage experience. Audiences can expect a mesmerising performance with live Chinese Orchestra music by Reverberance Ensemble that seamlessly blends heritage with modern entertainment, inviting them to rediscover the beauty and vitality of traditional arts.

The story follows Qian Rong, a Chinese opera artiste, who dreams of performing on the lively Getai stage. Her decision upsets her brother Yun Chuan, who feels responsible for preserving their father's Teochew opera legacy. Hurt and angry, he cuts ties with her.

When Qian Rong’s show faces a boycott from the Getai band, her childhood friend Jun Kai steps in, rallying support from his father and his orchestra’s musicians to save the show…