More than a quarter-century after Wong Kar Wai’s achingly beautiful masterpiece first shattered hearts, one of cinema’s greatest love stories is returning to Singapore in a live orchestral setting. In the Mood for Love In Concert will take over the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands on October 24 and 25, 2026, pairing a restored high-definition version of the film with a live performance of its iconic score by the Base Philharmonic Orchestra, led by internationally acclaimed Singaporean conductor Joshua Tan.
A Love Story That Still Resonates
First released in 2000, In the Mood for Love follows neighbors Chow Mo-wan (Tony Leung) and Su Li-zhen (Maggie Cheung) who gradually discover that their respective spouses are having an affair. Bound by betrayal, loneliness, and the weight of unspoken words, the two slowly forge a connection of their own—a relationship defined more by what is left unsaid than by any grand gesture. The film’s lush cinematography, exquisite period costumes, and repressed longing have cemented its status as a landmark of world cinema.
Decades after its original release, the film remains a touchstone for audiences, kept alive through revival screenings, art-house tributes, and its enduring influence on fashion and visual storytelling.
The Score as ‘a Poem Itself’
Wong himself once described the soundtrack as “a poem itself,” and the music is inseparable from the film’s emotional pull. The score was composed by Japanese musician Shigeru Umebayashi, a former rock star turned composer best known for his work on Curse of the Golden Flower and the unforgettable “Yumeji’s Theme.” For the Singapore concerts, the music will be performed live from start to finish—a rare opportunity to hear the melancholy strings and lilting waltzes fill a concert hall as the film plays in full HD.
Meet the Conductor: Joshua Tan
Leading the orchestra is Joshua Tan, one of Singapore’s most sought-after conductors. A graduate of The Juilliard School and the Eastman School of Music, Tan has built a career spanning symphonic, opera, ballet, and multimedia productions. His international credits include performances with the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra, Sydney Symphony Orchestra, and Tokyo Philharmonic Orchestra. For this concert, Tan will guide the Base Philharmonic Orchestra through Umebayashi’s haunting score, ensuring every sigh and pause lands with precision.
Event Details and Ticket Information
- Dates & Venue: October 24–25, 2026 at Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands
- Format: Restored film in full HD with live orchestral accompaniment
- Orchestra: Base Philharmonic Orchestra
- Conductor: Joshua Tan
- Tickets: Now on sale via SISTIC
Broader Implications: Why Film Concerts Matter
The rise of live-to-film concerts—from Harry Potter to The Godfather—reflects a growing appetite for immersive cultural experiences that blend cinema and classical music. For Singapore, hosting a work as revered as In the Mood for Love with a homegrown conductor and orchestra not only underscores the city’s role as a regional arts hub but also offers audiences a chance to reconnect with a masterpiece in a completely new way.
Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Wong Kar Wai’s visual poetry or a newcomer curious about one of the most celebrated films of the 21st century, this concert promises an unforgettable evening—one where music and memory become one.
What’s next: Tickets are already on sale and are expected to move quickly. Concertgoers should plan ahead and consider pairing the evening with a meal at Marina Bay Sands’ dining options or exploring the resort’s art installations. For those who can’t make it, future screenings and potential tours may follow depending on demand.