一屋寶貝

Sammas wrote on February 17, 2017

It has been a while since local musical in Hong Kong can make a tour of any sort since "Snow Wolf Lake". After their local success with a few musicals, composer Leon Ko and Chris Shum made another attempt to adapt Japan novella "Ame to Yume no Atoni (After the rain and the dreams) onto musical stage.

The story involves a single father, Asaba, who died of an accident while collecting butterflies in Taiwan. Unknowingly, he travels back to his home and is greeted by his only daughter as usual. Their new neighbour who has the ability to see ghosts, reminded Asaba that he is dead and can only be seen by those who actually loves him. Before leaving the world, Asaba will have some time to stay with his daughter, meanwhile he actually also need to deal with problems around himself.

Originally set in a smaller theater, the musical successfully grasp the touching center story and bringing out multiple subplots that can melt your heart instantly. There are twists after twists despite a mere 1.5-2 hours show. The songs are catchy, emotional with lyrics crafted as in different situation. The first run is greeted with raves from all levels including critics and normal audiences.

Due to the success, the show is than revised and got multiple re-runs in Hong Kong. The original cast includes Pak-Him Chu as Asaba and Jarita Wan as his daughter, and this proves to their star vehicle to musical theatre. Otherwise veteran Alice Lau and Margaret Cheung got their character moments shines out in the original run.

There are 2 cast recordings available with slight differences. The newer one feature a song which existed since the original run (Track 3, Woman's scent) which is sung by Simon Lo, a re-run cast member. Both cast recordings, however, features Mimi Lo as Asaba's neighbour; a role that is originally portrayed by Margaret Cheung.

Notable tracks in the recordings would include "Red Carpet", a rarely-found torch song in a Cantonese musical; the kind-hearted "Who isn't at fault", tear-jerking "What is it to Leave?", heart-warming "Back Home" and deeply emotional "A Home of Preciouses".

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