September 12, 2022
35 for EMCC35 | Lau Xuan Kai
In this instalment of our #35forEMCC35 series, we spotlight Lau Xuan Kai, a multi-faceted artist who participated in theatre and music projects through the ExxonMobil Campus Concerts (EMCC) platform. Today, he has branched into the film and media industry as a producer and director. He has just completed a documentary short film titled A Feeling of Music Playing, which combines his many loves into one narrative.
How many art forms were you involved in at NUS?
Music has always been a big part of my life. I had always been a Chinese Orchestra cellist, so I decided to join NUS Symphony Orchestra (NUSSO) to broaden my horizons and concert repertoire.
I was also a NUS Theatre Studies major, so getting into theatre performance is the next natural thing to do. We had an interim theatre group called The Actors’ Collective, which focused on more experimental-based theatre. It was led by Ranice Tay, an NUS performing and visual arts scholar.
How deeply involved in EMCC were you?
I performed at EMCC shows for the entirety of my 4 years in university from 2015-2019. I performed annually at the Singapore Botanic Gardens with NUSSO, held EMCC Miniatures concerts (from string quartets, to section ensemble, to orchestra). As a one-time executive committee member of NUSSO, I was also involved in the planning of these EMCC concerts.
What is the most cherished memory you have of your time with EMCC?
I enjoyed the possibility of putting both my passion and craft on the same stage. I got to play the cello in a theatre production supported by EMCC in 2017, titled Kalakuta: The Time Puzzle. In it, I challenged myself to mimic human speech using the cello. This freedom to explore our craft could not be possible without the support of EMCC.
Memorably, Kalakuta: The Time Puzzle also brought five batches of NUS Theatre Studies students and graduates together to perform on the same stage. We definitely have to thank EMCC for the chance for this senior-junior bonding and get-together.
What has your experience with EMCC taught you about yourself, being an artist, and the arts in general?
My experience in EMCC has taught me that as long as we dare to dream, be bold, and own our ideas, a work-in-progress can always turn out to be successful in some way. With practice, you will only be better at your craft. With the level of support provided, EMCC is the place you should be bold and practice all you can!
How has your EMCC experience complemented your professional life?
I am currently a producer/director in the film and media industry, and a documentary film producer on the side. My EMCC experience has really helped me make sense that arts of various forms can come together to achieve something greater.
I recently collaborated with fellow NUS alumni, some of whom were from nuSTUDIOS, to create a short documentary film titled, A Feeling of Music Playing. We are currently submitting it to various film festivals around the world. The documentary combines film, music, and theatre elements. Through the film, we hope to share with everyone the power and impact of live music.
About #35forEMCC35
NUS Centre For the Arts is proud to commemorate 35 years of ExxonMobil Campus Concerts (EMCC) through our #35forEMCC35 series. Spotlighting 35 individuals from past and present editions of EMCC, the series showcases how EMCC has complemented these individuals’ academic and professional lives, and their hopes for EMCC in the years to come.