Tarot card reading, an Asian-inspired freak show, voodoo doll making – this is how ACM does Halloween.
Halloween may trace its origins to the West but if you ask us, the creepiest supernatural stories take place closer to home. Bringing together the best of Asian horror stories, the Asian Civilisations Museum’s Halloween lineup never fails to make our skin crawl. For those can’t resist a dose of local flavour, make your way to this one-night-only screamfest on 28 October. Here’s what you can look forward to at ACM AfterDark – The Peculiars.
Get your freak on
Go on a self-guided trail of the event (7pm to 11pm) and try to spot spooky objects and their special features. An exclusive ACM token will be given to those who complete the trail. For more bizarre trivia, approach any costumed volunteers wandering around the museum.
On the prowl for more thrills? This next highlight will send you into a cold sweat! Head to the Learning Gallery for a freak show (every hour from 7pm to 10pm) featuring acts such as a death-defying aerial performance, a ventriloquist showcase, and a mask-changing performance. Do stay for the traditional ‘Dance of a Thousand Hands’, a mesmerising act inspired by the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, happening at the lobby (9.30pm).
Dabble in the “occult”
Glimpse into your future with a tarot card reading session (7pm to 11pm) by local “psychic”, Kelly Tan, or delve deeper into your spiritual side with an aura reading (7pm to 11pm) at ACM Green. While you’re there, don’t miss the museum’s storytellers lurking about the area, with terrifying tales to tell (every hour from 7.30pm to 10.30pm).
Go out on a limb with DIY activities
Up for some hands-on action? Head to the River Room and learn how to make your own voodoo doll (7pm to 11pm). Don’t worry if you’re not in costume – simply pop over to the face and body painting station (7pm to 11pm) for a ghastly transformation.
If you have a spooky story of your own to share, swing by Tales of Horror by National Library Board (7pm to 11pm). Scribble down or draw out your scariest nightmares and if you’re lucky, your story may be featured in a comic by an artist from Band of Doodlers.
There’s something for stargazers, too
Need a break from the action? Take a breather by stargazing with the Singapore Sidewalk Astronomy (7pm to 11pm) at the River Terrace, and hang around for a 30-minute talk at Astronomy 101 (8pm). Of course, the scares extend to the River Terrace – Singapore paranormal group, Supernatural Confessions, will spill on their most terrifying experiences at 9pm. Goosebumps, guaranteed.
ACM AfterDark 2017 – The Peculiars, 28 October, 7pm to 11pm, Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, Singapore 179555; Free admission.
This article is sponsored by Asian Civilisations Museum.
