In contrast to the lengthy Thai three-hour musicals that often extend over two acts, theatregoers in Bangkok recently enjoyed a refreshing change with Thrill Me The Musical, a one-act musical that takes on life through redolent songs.
Thrill Me The Musical is a faithful Thai adaptation from an Off-Broadway production in 2003. The sold-out musical immerses us in a world filled with a complex mix of emotions that led two seemingly ordinary men to believe that robbery and cold-blooded murder are the keys to a fulfilling life.
Translated from Stephen Dolginoff's musical Thrill Me: The Leopold & Loeb Story, the plot is based on the true story of the two "thrill killers" in Chicago in 1924, which also served as inspiration for Alfred Hitchcock's Rope. Rather than dwelling on the gruesome details of the murder, Thrill Me primarily focuses on the relationship between these two privileged young men, who get their kicks engaging in property destruction and eventually taking the life of an adolescent boy.
Ending its short run last Sunday, this one-act emotional roller coaster compensates for any shortcomings with its overall excellent performance and musical delivery. While it may not provide every historical detail, it's clear why this atmospheric portrayal of a crime and the pursuit of justice from the last century has continued to captivate audiences.
Produced by the Dramatic Arts department at the Faculty of Arts, Chulalongkorn University, the presentation of this musical thriller feels like an intimate glimpse into the minds of murderers. The limited stage space at the Sodsai Pantoomkomol Theatre creates a cramped, dark setting that is perfect for conveying the actions of these malevolent characters, evoking the film noir sentiment.
Throughout the 100-minute performance, the electrifying chemistry and energy between the two lead actors is striking and captivating. While he may struggle to differentiate between the older and younger roles, Songsin Sirikhanarat delivers a fantastically obsessive portrayal of Nathan Leopold in relentless pursuit of his lover's affection. His counterpart Taofah Maneeprasopchoke as Richard Loeb appears charming and calculated, adding depth to the horrifying acts.
The former's charm lies in his velvety vocal prowess and commanding stage presence, while the latter excels in portraying the inner character through songs. Together, they take the audience on an emotional journey filled with horrifying and homoerotic moments.
Director Patsupang Kongbumrung, who is also a faculty member in the Dramatic Arts department, skilfully guides the production with agile stagecraft and seamless transitions from American to Thai show tunes. Her direction emphasises the exploration of how narcissism fuels the darkest impulses of these killers, introducing a fresh perspective from the Dramatic Arts department, usually noted for the adaptation of theatrical classics.
While the original lyrics may be straightforward at times, a well-versed and melodious translation by the talented singer Tanee Poonsuwan elevates the intensity of this chilling musical. The faithful translation maintains authenticity while infusing Thai flavours, creating a rich theatrical experience with a painful sense of realism. And pianist Varisara Trakulmanee's evocative performance adds a layer of suggestive romance and noir-style narrative progression.
The lighting and sound design are executed to fairly optimal effect, enhancing the story's dramatic and poignant mood. However, the ending may leave the audience somewhat puzzled, as it's unclear whether the two characters reunite in spirit or hatch an escape plan. A clearer lighting design could bring closure to the story with a haunting impact.
Presented as a musical similar to Chicago, Thrill Me reminds us that its foundation lies in historical fact. But the art of musical theatre allows the audience to take the emotional journey that unfolds in the characters' ill-fated destiny and the desire to kill that thrills them.
