Get ready for a thrilling tale of a Singaporean actor's journey to the prestigious Shakespeare's Globe in London!
A Singaporean Actor's Dream Role
Faizal Abdullah, a London-based Singaporean actor, is about to embark on the most significant role of his career. He steps into the shoes of Caliban, the enslaved beast-man from William Shakespeare's iconic play, The Tempest. This magical tale of shipwreck, revenge, and colonization will come alive at the renowned Shakespeare's Globe theatre, and Faizal is ready to leave his mark.
A Small but Mighty Singaporean Presence
Faizal joins a select group of Singaporean theatre actors who have graced the Globe's stage. Anjana Vasan and Wendy Kweh have already left their mark, and now Faizal is set to do the same. Directed by the esteemed British theatremaker, Tim Crouch, this production runs until April 12, offering audiences a unique and captivating experience.
A Milestone for Faizal
At 41, Faizal considers this role a significant milestone. He explains, "In terms of scale and ambition, the size of the production, and the length of the run, this is the biggest role I've taken so far." The Sam Wanamaker Playhouse, an indoor performance space within the Globe complex, will host the play. Lit by over 100 beeswax candles, it replicates the chiaroscuro oak theatres of Shakespeare's London, creating an atmospheric and intimate setting.
The Globe's Sacred Ground
The current Globe complex is a modern reconstruction, situated just 230 meters from the site of the original 1599 theatre that burned down. For theatremakers, it is a sacred space, a place of reverence and inspiration. Faizal, who has pursued his theatre dreams in London with his wife, Khai Ramli, since 2018, had a week to prepare for his auditions. He describes the process as "chill, grounded, and generous."
Identity and Interpretation
Faizal's personal journey with identity has influenced his interpretation of Caliban. As a Malay Singaporean, his play, Siapa Yang Bawa Melayu Aku Pergi? (Who Took My Malay Away?), premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2023, successfully crowdfunded after an ST article. This exploration of identity resonates with his portrayal of Caliban, the native of the island whose world is upended by Prospero and Miranda's arrival. Faizal says, "That experience of having your identity, your place, and your sense of belonging reshaped by someone else's power is something I resonated with."
He continues, "Caliban is not inherently a monster but is made to be one. He's labeled, othered, and defined through a colonial gaze. Caliban's anger, resistance, tenderness, and grief all coexist. Exploring that complexity feels political and deeply human. I'm excited to give voice to a Caliban who is not just a symbol but a person reclaiming space, agency, and dignity on his own terms."
A Performer's Exhilaration
The "enormous sense of history" associated with performing at the Globe will undoubtedly heighten Faizal's excitement when the lights hit. On a personal level, his casting as Caliban validates the hard work and sacrifices he and his wife have made. Faizal shares, "I don't see being part of The Tempest as a culmination or as having reached the top of the mountain. I still feel very much at the foot of it. The journey continues."
Singapore's Talent on London's Stages
Faizal is not alone in representing Singapore on London's stages. Other notable Singaporean actors include Wendy Kweh, who appeared in The Little Sob by British playwright Amanda Wilkin in 2019, and Anjana Vasan, who played Hermia in A Midsummer Night's Dream (2016) and Cordelia in King Lear (2017). Additionally, Victoria Chen shines in My Neighbour Totoro at London's West End, and Nathania Ong has taken on major roles like Eponine in Les Miserables and Eliza Hamilton in Hamilton in West End productions. Ong will reprise her role as Eponine for the musical's 40th anniversary world tour, which will stop in Singapore at Marina Bay Sands in March.
So, as Faizal Abdullah steps into the spotlight as Caliban, we witness not just a talented actor's journey but also a celebration of Singapore's thriving theatre scene on the global stage. What do you think? Are you excited to see how Faizal brings Caliban to life? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
