By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
SOME seminal moments in history live on in the public memory, and the fall of Saigon during the Vietnam War was one such moment.
Like the crumbling of the Berlin Wall or 9-11, the events bring to mind immediate pictures of their impact on the world.
The events have often been immortalised in various accounts but the Vietnam War is captured in its essence by the enduring stage show Miss Saigon.
Footlight Productions producer Peter Wills said the local theatre company was excited to bring the “epic musical” to Geelong audiences for the first time.
“Miss Saigon tells the tragic tale of a young Asian woman and her relationship with an American soldier during the Vietnam War in the 1970s,” he explained.
“In the midst of the darkness of war this unlikely romance blossoms giving birth to a child. However, it is the ultimate sacrifice of a mother for her child that forms the central theme of this musical.
“While the scenario is a grim one, the powerful music and surging choruses give Miss Saigon an emotional depth that accounts for the show’s enduring popularity.
“The evacuation of the last Americans in Saigon from the embassy roof by helicopter leaving behind a crowd of abandoned Vietnamese people epitomizes the struggle and the desperation of a people at war.”
The production features Mikaila Briggs and David Irvine in the lead roles of Kim and Chris.
Wills said a “wonderful” ensemble cast supported the leads.
Director of Les Miserables and My Fair Lady, Christopher Parker, will be at the helm of the Geelong production.
He will join John Shawcross as musical director, Tania Spence as vocal director, and Joseph Simons as choreographer.
Tickets are now on sale for the show, playing from 23 January to 7 February in Geelong Peforming Arts Centre’s Playhouse Theatre.
