It's nothing like his previous works 4.30 and 15. 881 is a celebration of local getai with a plus. The show is a feast for the eyes.. bursting with colours, and the cast breaking into songs throughout the show. It is spontaneous, fun and the waterworks come naturally. Costumes are elaborate and grand. The duo, Yeo Yann Yann and Mindee Ong are Big Papaya and Small Papaya respectively. Together they are the Papaya Sisters. And are they.. to the very last glitter on their dresses. On stage, they are captivating to watch.. It's almost like like you were transported back more than 10 years back, only better singing and less sleazy. Qi Yuwu gets biggest billing. He gives a convincing act as Aunty Ling's son who can't speak. He emotes quiet anger, despair, joy that is painful to watch. The cast have great chemistry and even May and Choy (who obviously can't speak chinese), fit in perfectly. Even better are the getai verterans. They are loud and as clourful as the show. Watch out for Karen who's like this big sister of the trade.
Royston does well. This feels like an epic, comparable to the likes of Moulin Rouge. A local Moulin Rouge if you may. Royston is definitely a new director to look out for. Jack Neo's best was Homerun but his recent productions have been disappointing. 881 is a tribute to our local, dying getai scene, and has a little something for every Singaporean who lived through those times.
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