The arts scene in Singapore has never been more alive than today, bustling with festivals, performances, exhibitions and activities. More people are also attending and participating in arts and culture events. We check out seven unique arts groups.
1. The A Capella Society
We’re huge fans of the Pitch Perfect movies and the Warblers (from Glee), so imagine how excited we were to find out that Singapore has an awesome a cappella group. The A Capella Society believe in giving every one the opportunity to sing, whether you’re a carpool karaoke singer or future reality competition contestant.
But if singing isn’t your talent or you’re too shy to perform in front of others, there are other ways you can support the group. They run free monthly public workshops, which bring different groups together to sing, and funds are needed to keep these sessions running. Help someone realise their singing dreams.
2. The Finger Players
The Muppets, Sesame Street, Punch and Judy… we all loved puppet shows as children. After all, they do wonders to open up one’s imagination. Thanks to The Finger Players and their unique blend of puppet theatre and other arts disciplines, we can continue enjoying puppets at any age.
Apart from productions, they also actively encourage arts appreciation to 85,000 students and members of the public every year, through their Reach Out! Arts Education Program. Help them bring the joy of puppeteering to more people.
3. Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan Dance Theatre
Thanks to the Singapore Hokkien Huay Kuan Dance Theatre, the younger generation can continue to appreciate and practice Chinese cultural dance.
What started as an amateur dance troupe back in 1989 has now grown into a respected group that organises dance events throughout the year. These events are not just held for industry practitioners, but also for the local community through the grassroots.
We have made more progress in this sector than anyone could have imagined 20 years ago. The future of culture and the arts in Singapore is a bright one.
We have made more progress in this sector than anyone could have imagined 20 years ago. The future of culture and the arts in Singapore is a bright one.
PROFESSOR TOMMY KOH
Contributor to the book, Art Hats In Renaissance City, at its launch in 2015
4. National Book Development Council of Singapore
Are you the next Roald Dahl? Or do you just love reading Roald Dahl’s books? Then you’ll love the National Book Council of Singapore! Better known as the Book Council, the National Book Council of Singapore promotes writing, reading, storytelling and publishing through a variety of festivals, programmes and awards. Last year, they launched a new initiative designed for children from low-income families.
Help them groom the next lit thing, and in turn, bring more stories and adventures to us. As someone very wise (Dr Seuss) once said “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go”!
5. OH! Open House
Each neighbourhood in Singapore has a story, and that’s what OH! Open House aims to uncover. Every year, they uncover the secret life of a neighbourhood by bringing guests on a tour.
But this isn’t your usual neighbourhood tour. Through the eyes of their artists, these art walks bring you to see art in shophouses in Niven Road, Marine Parade HDB flats and even the boardrooms of Marina Bay.
Help more people see a different of Singapore.
6. T’ang Quartet
Classical music isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but T’ang Quartet is on a mission to make it yours by reinterpreting it to broaden its appeal.
Their artful blend of Eastern and Western styles have even led them to mix classical music with electronic music, through a collaboration with DJ Aldrin.
7. National Arts Council’s Silver Arts
The arts isn’t just for the hipster or atas crowd, or for a certain age group. No matter how old you are, there’s something in this creative and vibrant sector for you. And that’s why we love the idea of the National Arts Council’s Silver Arts, an annual festival that collaborates with artists, arts organisations and community partners to integrate the arts into the lifestyles of seniors.
A lot younger than its target audience – it’s only in its sixth year – the festival runs throughout September, so bring your parents and grandparents to enjoy the myriad of activities.
