REVIEW: King - Power, Identity, and the Comedy of Survival

In King, the everyday life in Singapore becomes a stage for both comedy and critique. Written and performed by Jo Tan, this solo-show dives into questions of masculine power, identity, and gender, exploring the pressures of Singaporean workplaces and social expectations with sharp precision.

At the center is Yen, a cautious and restrained woman living her regular life in a stifling environment. To survive, she cultivates another personality, Stirling, who is bold, assertive with no self-judgement. Around this dual identity, absurd and dramatic workplace events unfold. Jo Tan inhabits every character in the story with razor-sharp clarity, demonstrating a remarkable command over timing, tone, and stage presence, leaving no space for distraction. There is no fantastical escape, only the relentless, suffocating cycle of work and social interaction.

It is here that the humor bites hardest - comic exaggeration exposing the tragic realities of a system that undervalues women and enforces social hierarchies. While audiences laugh at the absurdity, they are also reminded of the real pressures, contradictions, and injustices embedded in everyday life. It is a comedy whose heart is tragic, a reflection on identity, gender, and survival in a world that can be both hilarious and hostile.

King is a piercing and unforgettable piece of theatre. Bold in its humor, unflinching in its observations, and compelling in its execution, this solo performance resonates with the audience long after leaving the theatre.

★★★★★

For more information, please visit: https://festival.summerhallarts.co.uk/events/king/

Credits

Creator & Performer: Jo Tan
Director: Tan Shou Chen
Producer: Shien Hian Lim

©️King