Confucius said “music produces a kind of pleasure which human nature cannot do without,” and how very true that is because most of us listen to music at least once a day. Growing up, I was exposed to all music genres especially jazz because my father was an avid collector of long-playing jazz records. For me, one of the most memorable records in his collection was “Cabaret” which came out in 1972.

When my father got home from work, he’d sometimes put on this record and that’s how the lyrics of the theme song “Cabaret” and the opening number “Wilkommen” were forever ingrained in my memory. These two songs were my favourites from the album.

Having cherished the songs from the “Cabaret” album for decades, I was naturally stoked when I received an exclusive invitation from MAC to attend a performance of “Cabaret” recently at Pentas 2, KLPAC (“Cabaret” ran from 6-15 May). Not only did I have the opportunity to watch the live performance of a much loved musical, I was also given backstage access to watch the MAC makeup team in action (more on that later) as well as interview Nell Ng, Artistic Director & Choreographer of “Cabaret”. MAC Cosmetics is one of the sponsors of this production.

Nell Ng is an accomplished director, actor, drama teacher, emcee. scriptwriter, producer, voice-over talent and drama teacher. She is the Artistic Director of Pan Productions Sdn. Bhd. which produced “Cabaret”. Boasting a cast of 18, “Cabaret” was produced after just a few short weeks of rehearsals. It was a thoroughly enjoyable musical and I’d gladly have watched it again and again.

The following is the interview with Nell Ng who was gracious enough to spare a few minutes of her time despite her very hectic schedule:-

Is this your first production under Pan Productions?

Nell : No, this is Pan’s 3rd production. We produced “Always In Wonderland” and “Celebration” last year. Pan wanted to produce “Cabaret” from the start and “Cabaret” was the reason why Pan was set up. Pan Productions is now 1 year old.

Is the storyline of “Cabaret” adapted to the Malaysian audience?

Nell : No, it isn’t. Our production of “Cabaret” can be compared to overseas productions.

What are the challenges of directing a production of this scale and is it difficult to work with a big team?

Nell : It’s getting everyone together and considering everyone’s schedules. We only had 4 weeks of rehearsals. We rehearsed from 2pm-11pm on weekdays and 10am-6pm on weekends.

Any comparisons to “Burlesque” or “Moulin Rouge”?

Nell : We stayed away from “Burlesque” in terms of costuming. The Kit Kat Club in “Cabaret” is a poorer version and it’s not glamourised. The Kit Kat Club isn’t immaculate nor does it have a perfect look. It’s a low class life at the Kit Kat Club which is why the lead character, Sally Bowles has a dazed look. Makeup from MAC enhanced this look.

Why did you choose MAC Cosmetics to do the makeup?

Nell : MAC has a prestigious name. They give me the assurance that the look is going to be good for my show. MAC can deliver and advise.

What do you think of the MAC makeup artists?

Nell : The team of makeup artists from MAC are committed and caring in their work. They take effort with my look even though I am not in the show as my role is just as an usher and greeting people. At press conferences, the MAC team will be there and at photo shoots, they show up 2 hours earlier. I have experienced unpunctuality or no-shows with other Makeup Artists.

Half an hour before their schedule begins, the MAC team is here. They are friendly and clean, it gives me a secure feeling. I feel that my face is in safe hands when my eyes are closed. They come in rotations. I was initially worried with the change of Makeup Artists but after the first 2 shows, I knew that anyone can take over anyone. They are all equally good, accommodating and generous.

I had a certain image on how I wanted the characters in the show to look. It helped that the MAC team understood, they were open to discussion. They are humble, helpful and professional. They are also generous as I see they don’t stinge on products.

They talk to me and ask me whether a particular look is okay. I respect them as experts, they are creative and keep improving with every show. The passion in their work can be seen. It is an honour to be associated with MAC Cosmetics.

Note : Thanks to Nell Ng for her time and MAC Malaysia for arranging this interview.