Tasha Low on culture, craft and chasing her own rhythm

Vogue Singapore

15 hours ago

There's a certain je ne sais quoi about Tasha Low, one that has carried her through many renditions of her creative career, with a spark that has captivated fans all over the world. And it's no wonder. At 31 years old—she turns 32 in October—the starlet, known for her doe eyes, signature locks and cherub-like visage, has showbiz in her blood, having started dancing at the tender age of two. On the beauty front, fermented rice water was traditionally used to cool the skin. Known as Bedak Sejuk or 'cold powder', it is believed to have brightening and smoothing qualities. Bee de Chaumet earrings and L'Épi de Blé de Chaumet necklace; Laichan dress. Zantz Han
'Dance was my first language of expression,' she notes. 'My father taught me ballroom dancing when I was a toddler and it became our way of bonding. That foundation gave me confidence in movement and stage presence, which later became crucial for both singing and acting.' It was this early start that led Low to debut in the K-pop group Skarf, a chapter she credits with shaping much of who she is today, from instilling discipline and resilience to refining her craft. Still, she felt a strong pull to return to Singapore and delve into local stories. 'I've always been drawn to a more holistic form of performance, where music, movement and story all come together.' Floral motifs were a familiar sight in Peranakan design, often found on vases, tiles, and everyday objects around the home. Zantz Han
It's this very pull that has brought her to our screens. In Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story —the sequel to Channel 8's 2008 series The Little Nyonya —Low stars in the role of Zhang Xin Niang, in a drama that traces the lives of the Zhang family, a Peranakan household living at Emerald Hill. 'Zhang Xin Niang is strong-willed, passionate and deeply loyal to her family, yet she's constantly torn between duty and desire,' reflects Low. 'What I love about her is that she's flawed and real. She's not just a product of her time, but someone trying to break free from it.' Apart from drawing 1.35 million viewers on Mediacorp platforms as well as holding on to Netflix's top 10 streamed shows, it's clear that Low's trajectory has been set for her. As for what's in store? She hopes to release more music soon, something close to her heart, and she'll be diving into a new drama project in the second half of the year. Here, she talks about her K-pop start, honing her craft and what lies on the horizon. Songket is a decorative weaving technique that uses gold or silver threads to form intricate motifs. Drawing inspiration from this heritage craft, Malaysian fashion designer Behati created a custom jacket, reinterpreting the tradition for the present day. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace and bracelets; Behati jacket. Zantz Han
Hi Tasha, thank you so much for joining us today. Tell us more about your beginnings in K-pop.
The K-pop industry is extremely regimented; everything is planned down to the second. Coming back to Singapore, I had to adjust to a different rhythm where there was more space to contribute creatively. At first, the lack of structure felt unfamiliar, but I eventually found it refreshing. What felt familiar was the community; it's small here, and that closeness brings a different kind of warmth and support.
Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story has been a massive success and a significant milestone in your acting career. What initially drew you to this project and how did you prepare?
I was immediately drawn to the emotional depth of Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story , and the role of Zhang Xin Niang was such a layered, complex character. It felt like a rare opportunity to explore heritage and identity in a way that was both personal and universal. To prepare, I dove deep into the culture: learning traditional practices, the language nuances and even some nyonya cooking. It wasn't just about playing a role; it was about honouring a legacy. Costumes were such a big part of stepping into Xin Niang's world. The intricate kebayas and accessories weren't just beautiful; they told a story of tradition, class and emotional nuance. Each piece helped me understand her status, her constraints and her quiet acts of rebellion. Another creation by Behati offers a playful twist on the peony, this time in a translucent, peekaboo style. It experiments with proportion and perspective, imagining the motif in a bolder, more daring way. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace and rings; Behati bolero, coat and dress; Christian Louboutin shoes; socks, stylist's own. Zantz Han
Working alongside your former Skarf bandmate, Ferlyn Wong, must have been a special experience.
It was surreal and so special. Ferlyn and I have shared such a unique chapter of our lives together, so stepping onto set with her again felt both familiar and fresh. There was an unspoken trust between us, which made our scenes more intuitive. But we also had to remind ourselves that we were no longer bandmates onstage, we were actors telling a new story.
Beyond Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story , you've taken on a diverse range of acting projects. Is there a particular role or genre that you've enjoyed the most?
I've loved exploring roles that sit in the grey areas; characters who are emotionally complex and morally conflicted. Those roles teach me a lot about empathy and about not judging people too quickly. Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story challenged me the most in terms of emotional stamina and cultural responsibility. I'd love to dive into psychological thrillers or period dramas with a modern lens. There's so much depth to explore in characters grappling with identity, history and desire. I also hope to work with directors who challenge their actors; people like Anthony Chen or even international voices like Park Chan-wook. Indonesian designer Toton reimagines the kebaya, merging the juxtaposition of fabrics and shape. Bee de Chaumet earrings, necklace, bracelets and ring; Toton top and skirt. Zantz Han
What has been the biggest accomplishment or milestone in your career so far?
Emerald Hill – The Little Nyonya Story was definitely a turning point. Not just because of the recognition, but because I felt like I poured my heart into it. It was a full-circle moment when all the parts of my journey—dance, performance, language, culture—came together. My loved ones and my cats keep me grounded. I try to create pockets of quiet in a very loud industry, whether it's journalling, cuddling with my cats or just being in nature. Staying connected to my 'why' helps. I do this because I love stories, not because I want to chase perfection.
How do you maintain your physical and mental well-being with such a demanding schedule?
When I'm filming, the days are long and immersive. I wake early, head to set and stay focused until wrap. On my off days, I try to slow down. A perfect Sunday for me is sleeping in, playing with my cats, journalling and being near nature. Mentally, I give myself permission to rest. Physically, I keep active by hiking or playing badminton with friends, which are fun activities and keep me feeling strong. The use of flowers was thoughtful and intentional, with different blooms chosen for the meanings they held. Zantz Han
If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be?
Don't rush to become someone else's version of success. Trust your timing. And rest is not a weakness.
What do you hope fans take away from your work?
I hope they feel seen. Whether it's joy, heartbreak or growth, I want my work to make people feel less alone. That's the magic of performance to me.
What are your long-term aspirations for your career in the entertainment industry, both locally and internationally?
I hope to keep creating work that feels honest and grounded, whether that's in Singapore or beyond. I'd love to collaborate across cultures and languages, especially in projects that bring Asian stories to the global stage. There's a growing appreciation for local stories and talent, which is encouraging. But there's still room for risk-taking and deeper investment in the arts. I hope we continue to create space for nuanced storytelling and diverse voices. The richness of Peranakan culture can be found even in the intricate details of dishware—quietly emblematic of a heritage built on care and tradition. Zantz Han
Tell us about your experience on our Vogue Singapore shoot, which was inspired by Peranakan culture as well.
It was such a dream! Fashion is another way I get to express different sides of myself. The Vogue team made me feel bold and elegant, while still being me. I loved playing with textures and silhouettes I wouldn't normally wear. It was liberating.
This issue is themed 'Home'. What does the word, in the context of Singapore and SG60, mean to you?
Home is where the heart is, a safe space where my loved ones are. After spending years overseas, I've come to treasure the small things here: the smell of local food, the sound of Singlish, the familiarity of faces. Home is comfort. It's identity. SG60 is a moment to reflect on how far we've come as a nation and how much more we can grow, especially creatively. I hope the next chapter includes even more support for the arts and for stories that speak to the heart of who we are. Toton also draws inspiration from white lace kebayas, which gained popularity in the early 20th century among Peranakan, European and Eurasian women. Bee de Chaumet earrings, bracelets and ring, and L'Épi de Bléde Chaumet necklace; Toton top, corset and pants. Zantz Han
What were some of your favourite memories growing up?
Playing block catching with my cousins and running around void decks barefoot. Life felt simple and joy was everywhere. Those were the days before smartphones and they were magic.
What's next?
I'll be releasing more music soon—something close to my heart—and diving into a new drama project in the second half of the year. Personally, I'm learning to say yes to things that spark joy and no to things that don't.
Photographer Zantz Han
Stylists Desmond Lim and Nicholas See
Hair stylist Ryan Yap/Passion Hair Salon
Make-up artist Kim
Manicurist Filicia Takahashi/Nail Bliss
Producer David Bay
Set design Abegail Loreno Arendayen
Florist Fawn World
Photographer's assistants Sin Yean Yam, RQ and Michelle Yap
Manicurist's assistants Celine Tan and Summer Chong/Nail Bliss
Set designer's assistant Clarice Teh
Florist's assistant Rachel Ng
Stylist's assistants Lance Aeron and Kuan
Special thanks to True Blue Cuisine
Vogue Singapore's July/August 'Home' issue will be out on newsstands from 13 July and available to preorder online.