Take some time to explore these art spaces, some of which have a centuries-old history
One iconic building to check out:
The Arts House
This Empress Place building’s storied history dates back to 1827. Designed by architect George Coleman, it was leased to the government for use as a Court House. Several government entities have passed through its doors over the decades, and became the Parliament House after Singapore’s independence. In 2004, five years after Parliament moved to a nearby building, The Arts House, a multi-disciplinary arts venue, officially opened.
Two kids-friendly arts spaces:
1. The Artground
An indoor play space for children aged 12 and under, The Artground at Goodman Arts Centre has interactive art installations kids can climb through and over, or go under. A plethora of weekend art activities spanning music, dance and drama also gives families ample opportunities to bond.
2. National Museum of Singapore
Along with storytelling sessions and craft workshops, there are exhibitions at the National Museum of Singapore that would appeal to the young (and the young at heart), including Growing Up, which offers a glimpse into what it was like growing up in Singapore during the 1950s and ’60s.
Three more companies with compelling productions
1. W!LD Rice
Big, bold and glitzy are some words commonly used to describe productions by W!LD Rice. Last year, the theatre group upped its game by unveiling a new venue at Funan Mall, spread over three floors. Its main space, the Ngee Ann Kongsi Theatre, boasts Singapore’s only thrust stage.
2. Pangdemonium!
This 10-year-old theatre company has a diverse range, staging dramatic plays, theatre classics and musicals, often within the same calendar year. Whether it’s a drama or comedy, you can always count on Pangdemonium!‘s productions to be both thought-provoking and full of heart.
3. The Necessary Stage
Founded in 1987 by artistic director Alvin Tan, The Necessary Stage‘s aim has always been to offer a platform for original local plays. With over 100 plays under its belt, the company has tackled topics such as mental health and politics, while their latest work, The Year of No Return focuses on the impact of climate change.
M1 Singapore Fringe Festival: Curated by The Necessary Stage, this annual festival is based on a different theme every year. Held in January, it brings cutting-edge and socially engaged works to a local audience.
SEE ALSO: 3 leading cultural sites in Singapore to visit
To go back to the Discover Singapore homepage, visit here. To find out more about Singapore’s arts scene, go here.
