#593 ft. Selena Tan - Dim Sum Dollies Do SG60 & The Challenges of Theatre in Singapore

Nov 27, 2024

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SG60 is just round the corner, and Singapore’s beloved cabaret troupe Dim Sum Dollies are back to celebrate it! In this episode, we speak to founding member Selena Tan about the Dollies’ 22-year history, their upcoming show, and whether or not cancel culture has made it harder for comedians. She’s had a gutsy journey herself, abandoning the law profession in a time when a career in theatre was unheard of, setting up Singapore’s only for-profit theatre company, and surviving the Covid pandemic. No one tells it quite like Selena! Also, check out a special promo below for YLB listeners who want to attend the Dim Sum Dollies show!

(00:00) Tell You First
(00:50) Intro
(02:55) The Beginning of Selena's Career
(03:43) Dim Sum Dollies' Evolution
(06:40) Selena's Perspective on the Arts
(11:53) Dream Academy and Comedy in Singapore
(16:14) Selena's Journey to Law and Performing Arts
(25:30) Introduction to Theatre Companies
(26:21) Transition to Professional Theatre
(27:52) Challenges of the Theatre Industry
(28:44) Financial Realities of Acting
(36:35) Singapore's Unique Theatre Infrastructure
(43:26) Cultural Differences in Movie Making
(45:32) Support for Local Arts in Singapore
(48:44) New Generations in Theatre
(52:28) Comedy and Cancel Culture
(01:10:00) Upcoming Show and Creative Process
(01:11:05) One Shiok Thing

Find Selena Tan + Special YLB Promo for Dim Sum Dollies - Sixty Sexy Years

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YLB Promo for Dim Sum Dollies
- Use the promo code ‘YAHLAHBUT’ when purchasing at the link below to get a special discount for selected dates!
- https://ticketing.sistic.com.sg/sistic/booking/dollies1224?promocode=dollies1224DO
- Using this promo code entitles you to 15% off Cat1, 10% off Cat2 or 5% off Cat3 for show dates on 16, 17, 18 and 19 December

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We are more than 20 episodes into this first season of TELL YOU FIRST, where we dive into fascinating topics in history, pop culture and science that you never knew you needed to know - all with a touch of comedy.
Upcoming topics include life during the Japanese Occupation, imagining Singapore without Lee Kuan Yew, and even how Taylor Swiftonomics changed Singapore forever!
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One Shiok Thing

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Edited and mixed by Tristen Yeak