Remember me
Gateway Arts is set to present its first immersive, site-specific theatre production, The Parting Glass, from 2 to 13 September 2026, transforming The Blackbird gastrobar at Gillman Barracks into an intimate performance space where audiences become part of the storytelling experience.
Adapted for Singapore audiences by local theatre practitioner Krish Natarajan from an original script by acclaimed British playwright Chris O’Connor, the production follows Jim and Sarah as they revisit a relationship that is both tender and heartbreaking. What begins as a story of romance gradually uncovers deeper themes of loneliness, emotional isolation, and the hidden burdens people may carry despite being surrounded by love and friendship. With audiences seated just steps away from the performers, the immersive format allows every moment of humour, warmth and heartbreak to unfold in close proximity.
The production marks a renewed collaboration between Gateway Arts and Eagles Mediation & Counselling Centre (EMCC) after their partnership on Third Man Syndrome in 2025. As the presenting sponsor, EMCC will participate in every post show discussion and have counsellors available before and after each performance for audience members seeking guidance or emotional support.
Directed by Gateway Arts Artistic Director Samantha Scott Blackhall, The Parting Glass shines a spotlight on men’s mental health and the emotional struggles that often remain unspoken. Through Jim’s story, the production explores whether someone can be deeply loved yet still feel profoundly alone, highlighting how even the best intentions may not always bridge emotional distance.
Scott Blackhall said the play is especially relevant in Asia, where traditional expectations of masculinity often discourage men from expressing vulnerability. She hopes the story will encourage more open conversations about emotions and mental wellbeing.
The themes resonate with Singapore’s ongoing focus on mental health. In 2024, Singapore recorded 314 suicide deaths, with the largest increase among those aged 30 to 39. Men accounted for 64 per cent of the reported deaths, reflecting the continued challenges many face in seeking help despite growing awareness of mental wellbeing.
As the story unfolds, Jim appears to be the dependable friend everyone enjoys being around, but audiences gradually witness the emotional weight hidden beneath his cheerful exterior. Sarah, portrayed by Juliana Kassim Chan, becomes one of the few people who begins to notice the subtle signs of his internal struggles, encouraging audiences to consider how they can recognise when someone may be silently asking for help.
Gateway Arts chose The Blackbird as the venue because its familiar social setting reinforces the play’s central message that emotional struggles often exist in ordinary places and among people we think we know best. The venue itself becomes part of the storytelling, blurring the line between performance and reality.
Ticket holders will also enjoy 15 per cent off food and beverages at The Blackbird during the show’s run. The gastrobar will introduce a co-branded specialty beverage named The Parting Glass, available exclusively throughout the production.
To extend the conversation beyond the performance, Gateway Arts and EMCC have planned several audience engagement initiatives. Every show will conclude with a post-show discussion featuring EMCC counsellors, mental health practitioners and individuals with lived experience, offering audiences the opportunity to reflect on topics including depression, grief, suicide, masculinity, emotional expression and relationships.
EMCC will also maintain a dedicated presence at the venue where attendees can learn more about available mental health resources and speak with counsellors before or after the show. In addition, 30 complimentary individual counselling sessions will be offered to ticket holders on a first come, first served basis, with redemption details provided in the programme booklet.
The Parting Glass runs for approximately 75 minutes without an intermission and is recommended for audiences aged 16 and above. Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The production contains themes of depression and references to suicide, and audiences should expect an immersive experience with performers in close proximity throughout the performance.
Preview tickets for the 2 September performance are priced at S$30, while early bird tickets cost S$36 and standard tickets are priced at S$45, excluding SISTIC booking fees. The production is eligible for the SG Culture Pass. Early bird ticket sales run from 16 to 31 July 2026, followed by general sales from 1 August through 13 September 2026.
Performances will take place at The Blackbird, Gillman Barracks, with shows scheduled on 2, 3, 5, 6, 8 to 10, 12 and 13 September 2026.