Let’s start with Singapore’s version of Lincoln Center: the Esplanade. Nicknamed “the durian” because its spiky domes resemble the smelly fruits of that name, the Esplanade consists of several theaters—some intimate, some large, concert-hall sized—restaurants, cafes, shops, and the like. It’s on the river, and it’s a wonderful treat to go out into the courtyard area—where, often, there are free concerts—have a drink, or dinner, and watch the truly lovely view. It is, I think, one of Singapore’s truly charming, cosmopolitan, world-class spots. The Esplanade offers wonderful music and theater offerings, and it also has galleries for art exhibits. First-class performances come here, from various symphonic orchestras to ballet troupes to Chinese opera to world music. It’s definitely worth your while to check to see what the Esplanade is offering when you’re in town. The Victoria Theatre is across the street from Clark Quay, so it’s great to have dinner there and walk across the bridge to this wonderful, grand dame building: Parts of the theater were built in 1862; originally it served as the Singapore Town Hall. It is small—seats less than 1,000 —but offers high-quality acts, such as the Buona Vista Social Club.
Singapore Repertory Theatre is located at Robertson Quay, a short cab ride away from either the Esplanade or Victoria theatre. Its goal is to provide a platform for Asian artists and to give audiences the opportunity to experience Broadway, the West End and the richness of Singaporean culture. It invites outside acts as well as produces its own plays, which have included The Glass Menagerie, Nora, Death of a Salesman, and Hamlet.
Movies—Singaporeans are movie insane. You will get ALL the blockbusters here, but many of the smaller, artier films may be overlooked. Movie seats are assigned, and on weekends it’s advisable to order tickets in advance—on line, or call. Tourists will find the main movie theatres around Orchard Road—Shaw House houses one major theatre; and the Lido, closer to Somerset MRT, is another major movie center, as is Great World City. (Tangentially, there is an IMAX theatre at the Singapore Science Centre. It now offers “Superman Returns” in this theatre, which is probably WAY cool.) |
