AustLit

Adapted by Simon Chan from a version by Edward Golden, The Happy Prince tells the story of a statue of a prince that gives its precious gems to a swallow to distibute to the poor. The swallow, which has been left behind when its flock migrates south for the winter, eventually dies of cold and exhaustion. DEprived of its beauty the statue is torn down and melted, leaving behind only its broken heart and the dead swallow. These are taken up to heaven by an angel that has deemed them the two most precious things in the city. This is affirmed by God and the pair live forever a garden paradise.

Songs written for the piece are 'Open Your Heart' 'The Happy Prince,' 'The Passionflower Waltz,' 'Guiding Star,' and 'For Always.'

A comedy musical featuring songs from James Bond movies, the setting for From Asia with Love is a seedy speakeasy in Shanghai, 1950. 'Secret agent Matt Ward has been sent on an intelligence mission in the guise of a lounge singer. But is there is something deadly about the gig? And who is the mysterious Asian girl who fascinates him?' (Mermaid Beach production poster).

In early 2012 Queensland composer/librettist Simon Chan was approached by Brad Rush, producer at the Arts Centre Gold Coast, to create an original revue based around his music theatre songs. The result was the cabaret Rice and Easy. The Arts Centre's venue, The Space, was also transformed into a working Chinese Restaurant for the shows.

'Intelliigent music and comedy in the city - for once. Four fantastic acts plus guest artists' (production poster).