Behind the scenes of BYG with CCS

With the house spilling over on Friday’s gala and approximately 95% of the house filled up on Saturday, Bai Yun Gang 2007 was a resounding success. It was a crowd-pleaser, judging by the reactions of some of the audience. Alex of 0718 commented that it seemed "well rehearsed" and that the crew appeared "experienced". Another member of the audience also dubbed it "entertaining and hilarious."

According to Jasmine Foo, the Asst. Stage Manager, the production was based on what their drama coach (affectionately dubbed Ah Liang) had said: "The greatest tragedy is a comedy," though the two plays appeared more funny than tragic at first glance.

Each play strove to make social commentary through the use of situation and dialogue. For example, in the first play on the theme of Feng Shui, wide, sweeping statements made by other characters took on personal meaning for the main character, exemplifying the Forer effect.

Also, the fact that the secretary, angel, robber and student were played by the same actress was no coincidence. It showed how the main actor perceived the likeness of a single entity in different ways.

Other deep insights into human nature to be found in the second play set in a literary geek’s playground. The matrix-like panels in the second play represented a dualistic reality, which incorporates both the virtual world of the internet and the sensory "real" world. It also resonated to some extent with a hint of the Oedipus complex.

At the end of the evening, the curtain closed on a highly excited CCS cast and crew which kept on cheering backstage with exuberant jubilation. Some members of the audience presented their friends flowers, soft toys, and other tokens.

Both Jasmine and Director, Meng Jiat, fondly recalled how much fun they had working on Bai Yun Gang. They spoke of how some actors unwittingly turned themselves into comedians, the jokes they shared, and how 'crazy' they got during break times. Their off-stage shenanigans bonded them into a family.

On behalf of CCS, Jasmine and Meng Jiat wish to thank everyone who contributed to the success of this event. Special mention goes out to Mr. Kwek, the tutors-in-charge, Coach, Mr. Kuo, technical instructors, Chinese cultural society alumni, and to the audience for a memorable BYG.

By Benjamin Low