“… Oo-Woo follows in the footsteps of Raimi’s earlier work Rindu Di Bulan and captures the complexities of family, particularly the bond between parents and children.”
— Bakchormeeboy on an earlier iteration of Oo-woo at Playwrights’ Cove 2022
Through tender storytelling, Oo-woo unravels the intricate web of caring for an elderly family member. As the story unfolds, deep secrets and hidden desires come to light, casting doubt on the strength of familial bonds. When their cherished family bird mysteriously disappears, a journey of unsettling discoveries begins, challenging the characters' understanding of duty and love.
Written by Raimi Safari, directed by Mohd Fared Jainal, and starring Dalifah Shahril, Farah Lola, Isabella Chiam and Yazid Jalil, Oo-woo delves into the haunting realm of dementia, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. A single bird brings into question the sacrifices and choices we make when faced with the unknown.
Oo-woo was developed at The Necessary Stage’s Playwrights’ Cove 2022 under the mentorship of Resident Playwright Haresh Sharma.
Post-show dialogue on 25 January 2024, with speech to text interpretation available upon request. Please email your request to info@singaporefringe.com before 15 December 2023.
Artist Statement
I believe that theatre has the power to create meaningful and transformative experiences within a community. By exploring the theme of taking care of the elderly in a Singaporean context, we shed light on the challenges and sacrifices involved in this deeply personal journey.
Oo-woo delves into the internal struggles between personal aspirations and familial obligations, resonating with many individuals who face similar dilemmas. By addressing the poignant topic of caring for the elderly in Singapore, Oo-woo prompts the community to reflect on the importance of familial bonds, the sacrifices we make for our loved ones, and the need for support and compassion in navigating such situations.
“We hope that this play will initiate conversations, spark empathy, and encourage action within the local community. Through collective reflection, we can build a more inclusive and supportive society, where the needs of our elderly are acknowledged, and the challenges faced by caregivers are understood and addressed. Oo-woo aspires to foster greater awareness and compassion for those caring for their elderly family members.”
— Raimi Safari, Playwright