The Graces is more than a homecoming of sorts for Seia Lee—the Japanese soprano lived in Singapore for seven years before moving to South Korea in 2023.
It is also a performance that seeks to upend the traditionally male-dominated realm of classical music, with women taking the lead onstage. Inspired by Greek goddesses—Aglaea, Euphrosyne, and Thalia—who embodied grace, beauty, festivity, dance, and song, this one-night-only concert features Lee and Korean soprano Yuri Park in their first collaboration in Singapore. Between the ladies, they have wowed audiences from St Peter’s Basilica (The Vatican) to Carnegie Hall (New York) and Suntory Hall (Tokyo).
Lee, whose career has spanned three decades, is well-loved for bringing emotional depth and versatile interpretations to her performances. As the producer of The Graces, she’s spared no effort to pull together an unprecedented performance promising immersive digital artistry on a cutting-edge LED backdrop—with Singapore’s own Summertimes Big Band (instead of a classical orchestra!) playing the music “live”.
“Yuri and I wanted to break the mould and try something completely new,” Lee says. “Instead of performing a full programme of classical opera, we sing just one operatic aria each. The rest of the repertoire includes jazz, musical theatre, and film music—familiar melodies that we reinterpret with extraordinary vocal technique.”
“Yuri, for example, sings dazzling high notes while dancing—a level of difficulty that very few singers in the world could even attempt. It’s bold, fresh, and thrilling. We wanted to surprise the audience in the best way possible.”
After Singapore, The Graces will travel to Vietnam, South Korea, Japan, and Buenos Aires.
On 29 May, you will perform with Yuri Park for The Graces. Why did you choose to perform at the Capitol Theatre Singapore?
I’m a huge fan of Art Deco, and I adore everything about Capitol Theatre Singapore. Its geometric patterns, symmetrical design, and decorative reliefs evokes the elegance of the 1930s. Every time I step inside here, I feel transported to the golden era of entertainment. I can’t even begin to describe how excited I am to be able to perform here!
What’s a must-have in your dressing room?
My yoga mat—not the sexiest answer, I’m afraid. On show days, I’m at the theatre all day. So I stay relaxed by doing light stretches on my mat, while running through the performance in my mind. It’s an essential part of my routine. Post-show, I usually treat myself to a glass of chilled champagne. But I’ll save that for The Graces cocktail reception with our VIP ticket holders.
How do you choose your costumes for a performance?
I’ve created a new style for this show so it’s unlike the usual classical hall performances. The stage features a lot of interesting lighting and LED visuals so I’ve chosen costumes with some shine and sparkle. I’ll be wearing four different costumes!
First thing you bought with your first paycheck?
I always thought dress-hunting was part of my job, so one of the first things I bought was a beautiful salmon-pink silk chiffon gown. I still remember how the fabric flowed so gracefully—especially when I walked from the wings onto the stage. The way the hem moved with each step felt like part of the performance itself. It was truly a dress made for the stage.
How do you manage all that money you earn?
I’m honestly not very interested in money. Ever since I was a child, I was never attached to money or possessions—and I don’t compare myself with others. I don’t mind spending money on a beautiful view, though, because it’s something I truly value. That’s also how I choose my seat in the restaurant or my place of residence.
A little birdie told us you get along with Blackpink. Who among the band do you most identify with, and why?
Wow! Actually, all the members of Blackpink are my friends. I’m close with their producer, so I’ve gone out for meals with the ladies many times. They’re all incredibly kind and hardworking, and I truly respect them from the bottom of my heart.There’s no way I could compare myself to them!
Okay. Your favourite song by Blackpink?
“Shut Down”—the first time I heard it, I was pleasantly surprised by the intro that featured Paganini! That moment really stayed with me. And [pauses] I’m about to start work with the song’s composer! Isn’t this fusion of K-pop and classical music just thrilling?
Gift an Experience with The Graces. Gift a seat to beneficiaries of Dress for Success Singapore, a charity that empowers women towards economic independence and confidence. Book your tickets here.
