From dance to theatre, this annual fest has everything an arts lover would want…
Join a throwback rave, dance on the dark side, get caught up in a melodramatic narrative, jam to jazz tones and more at the Singapore International Festival of Arts (SIFA). The 42nd edition promises to deliver experiences that blur the line between artists and audiences, so grab your SIFA tickets and head to various venues for this captivating festival. Not sure where to begin? Here are our handpicked highlights…
Crowd
Exposing the dark side of human nature is choreographer-director Gisele Vienne’s goal, and Crowd, (pictured top) delivers. From Berlin’s techno rave culture of the 90s, dancers pull shapes in a bid to portray their hidden selves. Expect arresting scenes to the beats of Underground Resistance, Jeff Mills and other throwback techno anthems. We say this one’s going to strike a nerve, especially if you can see yourself in this crowd.
Crowd, 1 and 2 June 2019, Victoria Theatre, 9 Empress Pl, Singapore 179556
Korper
How does the human body relate to architecture, science, and history? Berlin dance-maker Sasha Waltz creates a mesmerising masterpiece that yields and bends to the sounds of personal monologues. Whether performers are stacked like a human wall or writhing on the stage, this theatrical investigation into the human body is one performance that you can’t look away from.
Korper, 31 May to 1 June, Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
Beware of Pity
What’s the difference between empathy and pity? How should you confront another person’s suffering? Dive into this psychological melodrama that’ll have you at the edge of your seat. This story weaves its way through a couple’s destructive romance, set in the time of the collapsing Austro-Hungarian empire.
Beware of Pity, 16 and 17 May 2019, Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr, Singapore 038981
Bill Frisell Trio
Grammy-award winning guitarist Bill Frisell will be making his Singapore debut – and he brought a crew. Aside from his free-spirited chords and distinct prowess, he’ll also be joined by sought-after bassist Thomas Morgan and rising star drummer Rudy Royston.
Bill Frisell Trio, 29 May, Victoria Theatre, 9 Empress Pl, Singapore 179556
A Dream under the Southern Bough: Reverie
Explore a dream world with the modern adaptation of this epic play by Ming playwright Tang Xianzu, also known to fans as the Shakespeare of the East. The story follows disgraced naval officer Chun You Fen’s journey into the Ant Kingdom, a dramatic dream that involves being betrothed to the dynasty’s princess and more.
A Dream under the Southern Bough: Reverie, 31 May to 2 June 2019, Drama Centre Theatre, 100 Victoria Street, National Library Building, Level 3, Singapore 188064
This is just the tip of the iceberg. Get the full lineup at Singapore International Festival of Arts, happening 16 May to 2 June 2019 at various locations.
This post is in partnership with SIFA.