National Arts Council launches Expression of Interest for Operator of New Theatre at Tanglin

Supporting the local arts ecosystem  

2 Support for local arts groups is built directly into the theatre's operating requirements: 

• Differentiated pricing tiers must be developed for local non-profit arts companies, enabling groups with the ambition and capability to grow to present their works in a world-class, larger-capacity venue. 

• Operators will be expected to invest in capability development for local practitioners for example through residency programmes, mentorship, co-production partnerships etc., provide affordable access to rehearsal and development spaces and create new job opportunities. 

3 Mrs Elaine Ng, Chief Executive Officer, NAC, said: “We welcome proposals from local and international organisations that share our ambition to grow Singapore's performing arts ecosystem. Through this new theatre, we want to create more opportunities for Singapore artists and arts companies to showcase our distinctive artistic identity, and to bring the arts to new audiences.” 

An attractive opportunity anchored in Singapore’s artistic identity  

4 Located in Orchard Road's arts and cultural sub-precinct, the new theatre is envisioned as a leading performing arts destination accessible to both local and international visitors. A base rent waiver of up to 20 years from PERE gives the appointed operator a strong foundation to build a sustainable business model and invest in programming, audience development, and the broader arts ecosystem.  

5 The EOI is open to both local and international organisations. International applicants must have a local arts programming partner with an official role in shaping the artistic direction of local programming, ensuring that Singapore’s diverse arts perspectives are reflected alongside international ambitions. Where a joint venture or consortium is proposed, the locally registered arts company or companies must have at least 30 percent ownership or co-investment and also serve as a programming partner.  

6 The theatre, set to open in 2030, was announced by Mr David Neo, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth and Second Minister for Education on 27 August 2026. It is funded and built by Singapore-based real estate investor and developer Pacific Eagle Real Estate (PERE) to world-class standards. NAC will work closely with the appointed operator to develop the theatre as a key piece of infrastructure within Singapore's performing arts landscape. The theatre represents one in a pipeline of differentiated spaces being planned to support the diverse needs of Singapore’s increasingly mature arts sector.  

7 Full details about the EOI are in Annex A. Background on the new theatre and high-resolution images are available in the Digital Media Kit here (opens in new tab). 

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About National Arts Council, Singapore  

The National Arts Council (NAC) is a statutory board under the Ministry of Culture, Community, and Youth that champions the arts in Singapore. The Council promotes artistic excellence by providing diverse opportunities for artists and arts organisations while expanding access for audiences to appreciate the impact of the arts in enriching lives. By working closely with the arts community and partners, the Council seeks to build a connected society, creative economy and distinctive city through the arts. For more information, visit www.nac.gov.sg (opens in new tab)