Residents to Experience More Arts Performances in the Heartlands

27 July 2024

From August 2024, residents can look forward to arts performances, workshops and activities across Singapore.

Over the next two years, ArtsEverywhere@CDC, a national effort by the National Arts Council (NAC), People’s Association (PA) and the five Community Development Councils (CDC), will bring a regular pipeline of arts experiences at scale, to communities and heartlands, making it more accessible for residents of all ages to enjoy and engage with the arts together, in the vicinity of their homes. There will be large-scale monthly performances at two anchor venues in each district, including fringe arts and culture activities for all to participate in. More than 50,000 residents are estimated to experience these art performances.

Building shared experiences through the arts

ArtsEverywhere@CDC was launched on 27 July at Paya Lebar Quarter (PLQ) Open Plaza by Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Second Minister for Law and People’s Association Deputy Chairman, Edwin Tong.

ArtsEverywhere@CDC highlights the important role that the arts play in bringing communities together over shared experiences and enlivening our heartlands. The launch event featured performances such as Kito dan Kita by Malay drumming group NADI Singapura Ltd, showcasing the dynamism of traditional drums and percussions as well as street performances by beatboxer HandFX. The public also had opportunities to engage with artist The Phoenix Quill in a live typewriter poetry experience and enjoyed an art installation by artists Didier Ng and Cherie Ng as well as various craft activities to participate in.

Low Eng Teong, Chief Executive, NAC, said “Through this partnership with the CDCs and PA, we hope to bring the arts closer and more accessible to the public, so that they will be able to enjoy and engage with the arts at places where they live, work and play. ArtsEverywhere@CDC is in line with Our SG Arts Plan (2023 - 2027) to build a connected society where communities can come together to better appreciate our arts and culture. This also allows for more opportunities and platforms for our artists and arts groups to engage and reach new audiences. NAC has curated a series of arts programmes and activities for this initiative, and we invite all to experience the exciting offerings lined up in the coming months.”

Ms Low Yen Ling, Chairman of Mayors’ Committee and Mayor of South West District, added “The role of arts and culture is more important than before in today’s society as it has the ability to bring the community together. At ArtsEverywhere@CDC events, Singaporeans have the opportunity to engage with the arts and bond with one another. It contributes to the CDCs’ collective vision of building inclusive and vibrant communities.”

Providing more platforms for artists and arts groups

In line with Our SG Arts Plan (2023 – 2027), this initiative also supports the growth of our local arts companies by helping them reach and develop audiences. Through the re-staging and adaptation of works for different settings, artists and arts groups can increase their audience base and generate more awareness of their art forms. We hope this initiative will continue creating new job opportunities for artists and arts groups as more audiences, partners and stakeholders encounter and come to appreciate their works.

Ms Denise Phua Lay Peng, Mayor of Central Singapore District, said "Supporting the growth of artists and arts workers is essential for a dynamic and innovative arts scene in Singapore. Developing them is not just about honing skills but about empowering them to be catalysts for change, push boundaries and use their creativity to shape a brighter future for Singapore."

Mr Desmond Choo, Mayor of North East District, said "Building a robust arts ecosystem in Singapore is not just about supporting artists. It means ensuring that artists and arts companies have the resources and opportunities they need to flourish and thrive, enabling them to create and inspire with resilience and passion for a more caring and inclusive community.”

Mr Alex Yam, Mayor of North West District, said “Bringing arts into the heartlands of the North West District will enable us to build Inclusive Communities where residents can better access and support performances by our local artistes. Importantly, it will also bring our residents together and create a memorable bonding experience, enjoyed conveniently in their neighbourhood.”

Mr Mohd Fahmi Aliman, Mayor of South East District, said "As a multicultural society, access to the arts is important for Singaporeans to celebrate our diversity and foster creativity. By expanding opportunities, we nurture a vibrant and inclusive society where creativity and cultural expression know no boundaries. It is not just about entertainment; it is about empowering every Singaporean to connect with their heritage, express themselves, and find inspiration in the beauty of artistic expression."

More information on the programme line-up can be found in the Annexes and images of artists and arts group can be accessed in the digital media kit (opens in new tab). For the latest updates, please visit go.gov.sg/artseverywhere-cdc (opens in new tab) and follow us on socials at #ArtsEverywhereCDC.

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Annexes
Annex A: Programme Write Ups for Launch Event on 27 July 2024
Annex B: Programme Details and Line-up for August – October 2024
Annex C: Corporate Information

For media enquiries, please contact:

Details

Peggy Lam
Assistant Director
CDC Planning and Development
Mobile: 9749 0013
Email: Peggy_Lam@pa.gov.sg

Faith Leong
Manager
Strategic Communications
National Arts Council
Tel: 9173 0246
Email: faith_leong@nac.gov.sg

Annex A - Programme Write-ups for Launch Event on 27 July 2024

Details

Kito dan Kita presented by NADI Singapura

Kito dan Kita is a Malay drumming and music performance inspired by the customs and traditions of the Malay community in Singapore and the Nusantara. It features the Rebana, Gendang, Jidur, Marwas, Talempong, among other instruments, while incorporating dance and singing.

NADI Singapura Ltd is a Malay percussion arts ensemble led by two renowned individuals in the Singapore Malay Arts scene, Rebana artisan, Yaziz Hassan and Young Artist Award recipient, Riduan Zalani. It is dedicated to upholding traditions while pushing the craft through innovative approaches in the use of the Malay Archipelago drums.

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Echoes of the Forest is an installation by artists Didier Ng and Cherie Ng. Come check out the life-size installation or join in the craft activities led by the artists and try your hand at making a spinning rattle drum or a handphone holder.

Didier Ng and Cherie Ng are visual artists who embrace nature with a passion for transforming waste into wonders. Their imaginative creations breathe new life into discarded materials, adding a unique twist to conventional art and prompting one to see beauty in the unexpected. With a meticulous and measured approach to creative art, their work reflect dedication to the craft of upcycling and renewal.

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Street Performances

HandFX uses his voice to produce a wide range of beats and sounds, creating various song snippets and soundscapes.

The Phoenix Quill is a poet who uses typewriters to craft pieces of poetry for audiences on the streets. With prompts from the audience (e.g. a memory, a person, a word, a dream), the poet produces and prints poems which audiences get to keep.

Annex B - Programme Details and Line Up for August – October 2024
Note: Please visit go.gov.sg/artseverywhere-cdc (opens in new tab) for updates on programmes.

Programme Details

Details

My Identity: Beyond Artistry
Presented by Brahmastra

My Identity: Beyond Artistry is a dance musical inspired by the journey of five creative professionals from various fields including film, music, and dance. Come experience their stories and how creativity is woven into the fabric of their existence. Featuring compositions by multi-award-winning composer and accomplished flautist Niranjan Pandian, and choreography by various dance collectives and institutions.

About Brahmastra
Brahmastra Ensemble is an Indian fusion collective led by Indian classical flautist, Niranjan Pandian, which harmonises Indian folk, fusion, and traditional melodies into a singular tapestry of sound. The ensemble has been featured in local and international festivals as their original compositions and arrangements bring different communities together. Bhaskar’s Arts Academy is a Singapore-based Indian classical dance, music, and theatre company, which values the innovative spirit of cross-cultural explorations. It constantly pushes the boundaries of traditional Indian dance through its uniquely evolving style.

Fringe Activities
Presented by Brahmastra, Damaru Singapore, and Manimaran Creations

Parai and Karagam Workshop
Learn the basics of playing the parai and performing the karakattam in this music and dance workshop.

Mayil and Puppet Photo Booth and Exhibition
Take photos with mayil (peacock) props and puppets at the photo booth and learn more about how these elements feature in Indian art.

Evergreen Classics
Presented by Ding Yi Music Company

Join us for an enchanting hour of evergreen classics with your family, featuring music from the legendary Teresa Teng and Fei Yu-ching. Experience the magic of songs that have transcended decades, including an ABBA Medley and lively Malay and Indian folk songs. This eclectic mix of tunes offers a unique opportunity to bond with loved ones as you sing along to these beloved melodies.

About Ding Yi Music Company Founded in 2007, Ding Yi Music Company is Singapore's leading Chinese chamber ensemble, renowned for its innovative spirit and commitment to excellence in the realm of Chinese chamber music. The ensemble is a National Arts Council Major Company Scheme Recipient since 2016 and was the recipient of the prestigious Singapore Chinese Cultural Contribution Award in 2019. Ding Yi has represented Singapore at numerous prestigious international festivals and performances.

Fringe Activities
Presented by Dider Ng and Cherie Ng

Make Your Own Chinese Spinning Rattle Drum
Let's drum up some wild and wacky fun by creating your own spinning rattle drum with Didier Ng and Cherie Ng.

Make Your Own Ruan Qin Fan
Join eco-artists Didier Ng and Cherie Ng as they show you how to create a fan out of recycled materials, inspired by the Chinese music instrument, Ruan.

Art Installation
Close your eyes and let your imagination run wild as you find yourself whisked away to the Chinese mountains. Amidst the symphony of rustling leaves and chirping birds, let’s sway to the rhythm of nature's melody. Inspired by a Chinese painting, it's a celebration of Singapore's rich tapestry of arts, culture, and biodiversity, all wrapped up in the playful embrace of cardboard creativity.

Music in the heART_lands!
Presented by Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Ensemble

Join the ensemble from the Philharmonic Wind Orchestra (PWO) for an exciting performance as the musicians enthral you with a delectable spread of songs from English and Mandarin pop songs, evergreens, festive favourites, to songs that reflect our multicultural heritage!

About Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Ensemble
Philharmonic Wind Orchestra (PWO) is recognised as one of the premier wind orchestras in Singapore, founded in 2000, and has won international accolades for its performances overseas. The group also strongly supports Singaporean composers by performing and premiering their works. Its long-standing artistic mission is to advance wind music in Singapore and aims to bring music to anywhere it believes it can make a difference.

Fringe Activities
Presented by Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Ensemble

Make It and Play It! Percussion Workshop (Buckets and Pails)
Roll up your sleeves and get active with our musicians as you make and personalise your own percussion instruments and join in the samba percussion drum circle! Guided by our percussion instructors, experience the fun rhythmic patterns and be introduced to more percussion instruments too.

Make It and Play It! Percussion Workshop (Shakers)
Come join the percussionists of the Philharmonic Wind Orchestra in a home-made percussion instrument samba session! Make your own percussion instruments out of recycled materials such as shakers! Explore the various sounds you can produce with your hand-made instruments by being a one-day percussionist in a drum circle!

Kito dan Kita
Presented by NADI Singapura Ltd

Be captivated by Kito dan Kita, a Malay drumming and music performance inspired by the customs and traditions of the Malay community in Singapore and the Nusantara. This dynamic performance will feature the Rebana, Gendang, Jidur, Marwas and Talempong, among other instruments, while incorporating dancing and singing.

About Nadi Singapura Ltd
Formed in November 2011, the Nadi Singapura ensemble is made up of young and aspiring musos who believe in uplifting their traditional drums and percussions like no other. The ensemble is led by two renowned individuals in the Singapore Malay Arts scene, Rebana artisan, Yaziz Hassan and prominent drummer/percussionist, Riduan Zalani. Both founders aim to position NADISingapura Ltd as a dynamic ensemble which adopts an innovative approach in the use of the Malay Archipelago drums. NADISingapura Ltd is a recipient of the National Arts Council’s Major Grant for the period from 1 April 2022 to 31March 2025. They have received admirable reviews and participated in various local and international cultural showcases.

Fringe Activities

Presented by NADI Singapura Ltd

Paper Tanjak Workshop
Come join us and make your own paper tanjak (Malay headgear) in this workshop.

Drum Circle Try your hand at drumming with NADI Singapura in this fun and energetic drumming workshop.

Presented by Didier Ng and Cherie Ng

Echoes of the Forest (Art Installation)
Close your eyes and let your imagination run wild as you find yourself whisked away to the lush rainforests of Singapore. Amidst the symphony of rustling leaves and chirping birds, there's an unexpected twist – the distant beat of drums! But not just any drums, these are the heart-pounding rhythms of traditional Malay drums! Let’s dance to the beat of nature's drumline, where the graceful mousedeer prances alongside the pulsating cadence of the drums. It's a celebration of Singapore's rich tapestry of arts, culture, and biodiversity, all wrapped up in the playful embrace of cardboard creativity.

Make Your Own Spinning Rattle Drum
Let's drum up some wild and wacky fun by creating your own spinning rattle drum with Didier Ng and Cherie Ng, and get ready to march to the rhythm with Nadi Singapura!

'Otter-ly’ Fun! Eco Workshop
Join eco-artists Didier Ng and Cherie Ng as they show you how to create an otter shaped handphone and stationery holder out of recycled materials.

About Didier Ng and Cherie Ng
Didier Ng is an artist who embraces nature and rubbish. With a passion for transforming waste into wonders, Didier's creations breathe new life into discarded materials, adding a unique twist to conventional art. Her work not only captivates the imagination but also prompts us to see beauty in the unexpected. Cherie Ng, an artist with a passion for upcycling, finds her voice in the quiet transformation of discarded materials. Outgoing and fun-loving by nature, Cherie nonetheless prefers working diligently to basking in the limelight. With a meticulous and measured approach to creative art, Cherie’s work reflects her deep dedication to the craft of upcycling and renewal.

Melodic Flowers
Presented by yIN Harmony

Inspired by flowers, this multi-cultural programme features songs from different cultures which are demonstrated by varied musical styles and instruments. Prepare to engage your senses in this unique experience and be mesmerised by familiar songs like Bunga Sayang, Rose Rose I Love You and folk music from around the world.

Fringe Activities - Flower Origami Workshop
Join yIN Harmony in this flower origami workshop and learn to make your own bouquet of paper flowers.

A Bird’s Journey
Presented by yIN Harmony

Follow the story of a baby bird's journey of self-discovery, inspired by, The Ugly Duckling. Accompanied by live traditional musica and voice-over narrations, the performance brings in elements of culture that are unique to Singapore. Audiences also have an opportunity to play on the bird flutes and be part of the interactive performance.

Fringe Activities - Bird Flute Workshop
Come learn how to play the bird flute in this workshop by yIN Harmony and then use your new found skills in the interactive segment of the performance.

About yIN Harmony yIN Harmony is a multi-ethnic music group that infuses various cultural instruments together on a singular platform to reflect the multiracial facets of Singapore.

Details

CDC	Date \| Time \| Venue	Programme
South West CDC	Saturday, 3 August 3.30pm – 7.30pm Neighbourhood Centre, Blk 371 Bukit Batok St 31	Melodic Flowers Presented by yIN Harmony
	Sunday, 11 August 9.30am – 1.30pm Teck Whye Market	Music in the heART_lands! Presented by Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Ensemble (PhilSax)
	Sunday, 15 August 5.30pm – 9.30pm Chinese and Japanese Gardens	My Identity: Beyond Artistry Presented by Brahmastra
	Saturday, 21 September 5.30pm – 9.30pm Chinese and Japanese Gardens	Music in the heART_lands! Presented by Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Ensemble (PhilSax)
	Sunday, 22 September 5.30pm – 9.30pm Chinese and Japanese Gardens	Kito dan Kita Presented by NADI Singapura & Echoes of the Forest (Art Installation and craft activities) Presented by Didier Ng & Cherie Ng

Details

CDC	Date \| Time \| Venue	Programme
North East CDC	Friday, 16 August 5pm – 8pm Our Tampines Hub, Festive Plaza	Melodic Flowers Presented by yIN Harmony
	Friday, 20 September 5pm – 8pm Our Tampines Hub, Festive Plaza	My Identity: Beyond Artistry Presented by Brahmastra
	Friday, 18 October 5pm – 8pm Our Tampines Hub, Festive Plaza	Kito dan Kita Presented by NADI Singapura & Echoes of the Forest (Art Installation and craft activities) Presented by Didier Ng & Cherie Ng

Details

CDC	Date \| Time \| Venue	Programme
North West CDC	Saturday, 10 August 10.30am – 2.30pm Hardcourt beside Yew Tee MRT station	Music in the heART_lands! Presented by Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Ensemble (PhilBrass)
	Saturday, 7 September 5.30pm – 9.30pm Hardcourt beside Yew Tee MRT station	A Bird’s Journey Presented by yIN Harmony
	Saturday, 5 October 5.30pm – 9.30pm Hardcourt beside Yew Tee MRT station	My Identity: Beyond Artistry Presented by Brahmastra

Details

CDC	Date \| Time \| Venue	Programme
South East CDC	Saturday, 24 August 10.30am – 2.30pm Heartbeat @ Bedok	Evergreen Classics Presented by Ding Yi Music Company
	Saturday, 14 September 10.30am – 2.30pm WismaGeylang Serai	Music in the heART_lands! Presented by Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Ensemble (PhilSax)
	Saturday, 19 October 10.30am – 2.30pm Bradell Heights Community Hub	Kito dan Kita Presented by NADI Singapura & Echoes of the Forest (Art Installation and craft activities) Presented by Didier Ng & Cherie Ng

Details

CDC	Date \| Time \| Venue	Programme
Central Singapore CDC	Saturday, 10 August 12pm – 4pm Toa Payoh HDB Hub	Melodic Flowers Presented by yIN Harmony
	Saturday, 7 September 12pm – 4pm Toa Payoh HDB Hub	The Purple Symphony
	Saturday, 5 October 12pm – 4pm Toa Payoh HDB Hub	Music in the heART_lands! Presented by Philharmonic Wind Orchestra Ensemble (PhilBrass)

Annex C

About ArtsEverywhere@CDC

ArtsEverywhere@CDC brings arts experiences to communities where they live, work and play. Every month, members of the public can look forward to arts performances, workshops and activities around Singapore, and develop a greater appreciation for the arts through these shared experiences. This initiative is in line with our aspiration for Our SG Arts Plan (2023 - 2027) to build A Connected Society, where our social connections and national identity are strengthened through the arts.

ArtsEverywhere@CDC is a collaboration between the National Arts Council, People's Association, and the five Community Development Councils, and is supported by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth, with Catch (catch.sg (opens in new tab)) as the official arts and culture media partner.

About the National Arts Council

The National Arts Council champions the arts in Singapore and is committed to nurturing a vibrant and sustainable arts scene that enriches the lives of Singaporeans. Our distinctive arts sector fosters artistic excellence, inspires society, sparks creativity, and connects Singapore with the world. Through our collaborative efforts with individuals, private and public sectors, we aim to cultivate a creative city that inspires, while anchored on a thriving, inclusive and diverse arts scene.

For more information on the Council’s mission and plans, visit www.nac.gov.sg (opens in new tab).

About the CDCs

Since 1997, the CDCs have been bridging communities by strengthening social infrastructure, building social resilience and social capital, and promoting a culture of giving back, through the following ways:

(a) Aggregator of Needs and Resources

(b) Builder of Capability / Capacity in Partners and Networks

There are five Community Development Councils (CDCs), namely, Central Singapore, North East, North West, South East and South West CDCs. Mayors of the Districts are Chairman of the respective CDCs. The Office of the Mayors comprises:

Details

(a) Ms Low Yen Ling	Chairman of Mayors’ Committee & Mayor of South West District
(b) Ms Denise Phua Lay Peng	Mayor of Central Singapore District
(c) Mr Desmond Choo	Mayor of North East District
(d) Mr Alex Yam	Mayor of North West District
(e) Mr Mohd Fahmi Aliman	Mayor of South East District

For more information, please visit www.cdc.gov.sg (opens in new tab) and www.pa.gov.sg (opens in new tab)