CROSSINGS – A Play Dark And Bold Enough For A Different Kind Of Valentine’s Day
Happy and in love, Danielle and Chris are just about to tie the knot. But within their picture-perfect relationship lie a train-wreck of betrayal and abuse.
As the champagne gets warm and the cake waits to be cut, the couple is forced to deal with the choices they made in the past, the emotional entanglements of the present and the uncertainty of the future.
Boy, if this isn’t the perfect play to catch this Valentine’s Day.
Bold, dark and funny, Crossings will be the first public performance staged by the new young & W!LD cohort this year.
Consisting of two plays The Mother, The Son and the Holy Ghost and Arbitrio, Crossings follows characters who have arrived at critical crossroads in their lives. They will be making choices that will impact their lives forever.
A brainchild by the eight members of young & W!LD, the final scripts of both plays in Crossings were put together by programme director Rodney Oliveriro. A theatre performer, he has been involved in more than fifty productions.
[caption id="attachment_22520" align="alignnone" width="1278"]“Just like these troubled characters, we all have to live with the decisions we make and their consequences,” explains Oliveriro.
Crossings will be held at Black Box Source: Black Box[/caption]
In anticipation of Crossings, we had a quick chat with the casts of both plays, to find out more about the inventive and thought-provoking plays.
We spoke to Jasmine Blundell, Sharmaine Goh and Krish Natarajan.
CAST INTRODUCTION
Jasmine Blundell as Vix in The Mother, The Son and the Holy Ghost
An actor, musician, teacher and instant noodle-eater, Jasmine graduated from East 15 Acting School, specialising in World Performance – an eclectic blend of conventional and unconventional theatre traditions.
Sharmaine Goh as Danielle in Arbitrio
Currently pursuing her course in Arts and Theatre Management in Republic Polytechnic, Sharmaine is a raging cat lady who likes to, in her spare time, color and of course, pet cats.
Krish Natarajan as Chris in Arbitrio
Presently in LASALLE, Krish has always been into everything art and theatre. From Drama Club in his primary school to enrolling in SOTA when he was 12 years old, Krish practically is the theatre bug.
1. Hey guys, let’s take this from the top – what got you into theatre?
Jasmine: I can’t say I was bitten by the theatre bug. Rather, I was devoured by it. It started from a morbid theatre piece back in junior college. Our group had created a rather solemn, hyper-realistic piece about a suicide pact. The emotional and physical toil really broke through during that performance and the feeling was indescribable. The unexpected pursuit of theatre began shortly after as I decided to take it more seriously.
Sharmaine: I’ve always loved performing! As a child I would always sing, dance and act in front of my family (and I still do). But I think it’s the connections that an actor makes with an audience that keeps my passion alive. I just love how theatre has its own unique way of challenging, comforting and entertaining people.
Krish: I’ve always been into theatre. My father was a source of influence, he brought me to shows. But I think I knew it was what I wanted to do after playing Hamlet in SOTA. I did a terrible job and I made a promise to myself to one day do Hamlet well and kill it.
2. Could you tell us more about the premise of your respective plays and character?
Jasmine: The Mother, The Son and the Holy Ghost is a… realistically surrreal one. The situations and problems presented are surreal, but the way we’ve presented it is in a rather ‘realistic’ way. It’s about a trio of characters who all have their own agendas. It’s also a tribute to people who try their best to ‘fix’ situations but end up making it worse. The play is an oxymoron – real, fast but slow. Vix is self-absorbed, rude, trigger-happy, slightly deluded and vocal in many ways.
Sharmaine: Arbitrio revolves around the choices that we make in life, especially when we reach a crossroad. Danielle has to choose between a lover and her husband. We see how much or little influence external factors have on her decision making process. Danielle is quite a ‘cookie cutter’ type of woman. There is an innocence to her and the situations in the play she ends up in will push her out of her comfort zone.
Krish: Chris is a traditional, good-hearted man. He is a bit of a tech nerd although he doesn’t exactly love his job. And Chris has a bit of a temper and can be rather impulsive.
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Behind-the-scenes with Jasmine Blundell (right) as Vix in The Mother, The Son and the Holy Ghost[/caption]
3. What are the main challenges in bringing your characters to life?
Jasmine: Vix is quite young in the play – something I struggle to experiment with because I am an old soul. Perhaps the most common thing we have is that we’re both fast-talking, naive girls who want to believe in the good in people. She fights for social justice (or rather her own brand of social justice). Unlike her, I’m naturally not good at confrontations. So tapping into almost what seems like an alter-ego is exciting but scary.
Sharmaine: One of my biggest challenges is to get rid of my personal habits when acting, as well as to be more sensitive and attentive to my co-actors when rehearsing.
4. Sharmaine and Krish, we understand you’ve previously worked with each other in When S#!t Hits The Fam. Who do you think has a tougher time portraying the character?
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Crossings rehearsal with Sharmaine and Krish[/caption]
Sharmaine: It’s always a challenge portraying a character. I can’t compare and say whose is tougher but we definitely have our own sets of challenges.
Krish: I think that’s a very difficult question because both our characters have their respective challenges. They both go through things that Sharmaine and I have not exactly experienced personally, so it’s certainly challenging to truthfully portray their plights. And of course the characters aren’t quite different from who we are as people! But if I had to answer the question I would say me cause Sharm is great.
5. What sort of audience is going to love the play and what do you think is going to surprise them the most?
Jasmine: Let’s see. Audiences who love a good laugh, maybe a little cry from time to time, the old, the milennials – basically anyone who loves a good, side-splitting, emotion-worthy, unlikely-friendship story. There’s something in it for everyone, and I’m very sure you’ll leave feeling just a tinge-bit more sorrowful.
Sharmaine: We experimented a lot with this piece, so there definitely will be a lot of unexpected scenarios in this play. I can’t say much or it would’t be a surprise anymore, but there will be many.
Can’t wait to catch Crossings now that you’ve heard from the cast themselves? Or if you’re struggling for ideas for this Valentine’s Day, this may be the ticket to your solution. Pun intended.
CROSSINGS
Devised by the young & W!LD Company, written by Rodney Oliveiro
Venue: Centre 42, Black Box, 42 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187951
Show Dates: 15 – 19 February 2017, 8pm on all days, 3pm on Saturday & Sunday
Ticket Price: $30; $25 for students, NSFs and senior citizens
Get your tickets All images are courtesy of W!ld Rice unless otherwise stated.
Also, read 12 Valentine’s Day Date Experiences That Don’t Involve Dinners And Movies
7 Classic Threats Only Singaporean Mothers Use To Scare Us Into Submission
Remember those classic threats our Singaporean mothers used on us to force us to obey them? Our mums seem to have that magical ability to make us complete tasks that we dread – homework, cleaning up our rooms, household chores, etc.
The best thing about Singaporean mothers? They do not even need to lift a finger, sometimes just one look coupled with the threat is enough to scare us into action and submission.
At Discover SG, we take a closer look at some of the classic threats our Singaporean mothers have used, for nostalgia’s sake. P.S we know some of you may still be under the spell of these threats. Good luck.
Singaporean Mothers’ Classic Threats: A Recipe for Obedience
1. If you don’t behave, I will call “Mata” to catch you.
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Credit: 
Credit: Yoshi Today[/caption]
We are not sure how this threat came about. Was it because a mother saw a road sweeper and opportunistically used him/her to warn a lazy child to study hard?
Regardless of the threat’s origins or whether it’s morally right to make such comments, our moms say this with our interests in mind – they genuinely believe that doing well in school will help us become successful in life.
3. If you don’t finish your food/eat your vegetables, you will get *gasp* pimples.
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Credit: 
Credit: Youtube[/caption]
This is another classic mom quote. Separation from our favourite toy/game is as bad as going cold turkey. In fact, we still see
When this situation occurs, some of us will get creative by hiding all the canes in the hopes of avoiding the unspeakable when dad comes home.
Well, desperate times call for desperate measures.
6. (Insert your full name), you better…. (insert action mum wants you to take)
When mum calls your full name, you know you are in hot soup.
If you’re still not behaving as she wants, mum may proceed to the next step below.
7. I am going to count to three…you better…
Numbers have never sounded as frightening as when they came out of our mums’ mouths.
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Credit: dramafever.com[/caption]
We’ve all been scolded by our mums and while we may not always agree with what they say or do, deep down, we know they mean well. So, hang in there, if you still have to endure the classic threats by Singaporean mums.
As mums always say, it is “all for your own good”.
Header image source: True Heroes – 4 Invisible Jobs Singaporeans Take For Granted
2017 Cherry Blossoms In Japan: Here’s Everything You Need To Know For A Trip There
Every year, throngs of people make their way to Japan in Spring just to participate in Hanami. It’s more commonly known as the Cherry Blossom viewing and it refers to the age-old Japanese custom of appreciating the delicate sakura blooms.
The cherry trees bloom all over Japan at different times. They are known to be at full glory after their first week of blossoming when they’re at their fullest. However, it’s a short time frame and the flowers are unpredictable.
To ensure you don’t miss the 2017 cherry blossoms in Japan, here’s a look at the cherry blossom schedule:
Tokyo
Home of the famed Tsukiji Fish market, Disneyland and sea, Tokyo offers a mix of the modern and traditional.
You can take part in the peaceful Hanami tradition, and slip right back into the bustle of city life without missing a beat.
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Credit: Credit: missdevo[/caption]
2017 cherry blossoms in Japan: Tokyo
Estimated Opening: March 26
Estimated Best Viewing: April 2 – 10
Best Viewing Spots:
Shinjuku Gyoen (10 minute walk from Shinjuku Station)
Ueno Park (a few steps from Ueno Station)
Sumida Park (a few steps from Asakusa Station)
Kyoto
Previously the ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto has much to show from its beautiful past.
Here, you will be able to experience one of Japan’s few still-operational geisha districts, as well as visit a collection of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Not forgetting the most well-known site, the Fushimi-Inari-Taisha Shrine with its impressive views and photo-worthy captures.
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Credit: Pinterest[/caption]
2017 cherry blossoms in Japan: Kyoto
Estimated Opening: March 29
Estimated Best Viewing: April 4 – 12
Best Viewing Spots:
Philosopher’s Path (between Ginkakuji and Nanzenji Temples)
Maruyama Park (next to Yasaka Shrine)
Arashiyama (northwest of central Kyoto)
Osaka
Japan’s second most populous city, only after Tokyo, is a unique blend of cosmopolitan style and country charm.
There’s something for everyone – kids can enjoy a fun day out at Universal Studios Japan and the Osaka Aquarium, while adults can enjoy the friendly vibes and night scenes at Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori.
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Credit: amkortravel[/caption]
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Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: Credit: visithiroshima.net[/caption]
2017 cherry blossoms in Japan: Hiroshima
Estimated Opening: March 28
Estimated Best Viewing: April 3 – 11
Best Viewing Spots:
Hiroshima Peace Park (next to Genbaku Domu Mae tram stop)
Shukkeien Garden (15 minute walk from Hiroshima Station)
Hiroshima Castle (10 minute walk from Kamiyacho-nishi or Kamiyacho-higashi tram stop)
Essential information for 2017 cherry blossoms in Japan
Although there are no direct flights to Kyoto and Hiroshima, these places are easily accessible by train or connecting flights.
Prices are most inexpensive for direct flights to Tokyo during the first week of April, with Osaka, Fukuoka and Nagoya being comparable.
We hope that you’ve enjoyed this small glimpse into what you could witness in real life yourself. While we’ve covered Japan’s most beautiful 2017 cherry blossom viewing spots, there are still other locations to be discovered.
So have fun planning your trip to Japan and be sure to enjoy these transient beauties, as well as the many historical and culinary delights from the Land of the Rising Sun!
Also, read Forget Tokyo, Niigata Is The Next Top Japan Travel Destination!
6 Interesting Cuisines You Didn’t Know You Can Get In Singapore To Spice Up Your Meals
Being the food paradise that we are, it’s no secret that we can find many different types of cuisines on our island. But we bet you didn’t know that these hidden gems are lurking around in Singapore and waiting to tantalise your taste buds.
Why settle for the usual? If you’re in the mood for something different and unique, head over to these food joints for a new culinary adventure.
1. Lime House
Caribbean cuisine is a combination of many different cuisines which made their way to the Caribbean, with cooking styles and creations that are unique to the islands.
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Credit: 
Credit: 
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Credit: Facebook[/caption]
You can also check with them about throwing themed parties, corporate events or even weddings.
Fika Swedish Cafe & Bistro While Mexican food is within relatively easy reach in Singapore, go further down South and try some Costa Rican food the next time you’re at Lau Pa Sat or Amoy Street Market. Yup, you can get an authentic array of dishes from the Central American country right in the middle of our favourite food haunts. Be introduced to the chalupa, casado (a popular Costa Rican rice meal), picadillo de ayote, beef taco bowl and a special dish of fried rice with seafood (arroz con marisco) at an affordable price range. Translating to “mouth” in Portuguese, Boca features vibrant Portuguese cuisine that reflects a strong Atlantic and Southern European influence. Top picks include the bacalhau (cod fish served in different flavours and styles), carne de porco a alentejo (pork with clams), chouriço em chamas (flamed pork sausage), bochecha de porco (pork cheek) and the famed Portuguese egg tart. After you’ve had your fill, end your meal with a popular Portuguese cocktail, Caipirao, which is said to be an aromatic version of Caipirinha. BOCA If you’ve always wanted to go on an Inca Trail, you can start with one right here in Singapore. But instead of hiking, you will be dining your way through the best flavours that Peru has to offer in a social and familial setting. Start with a ceviche (seafood dish) and causa (classic Peruvian potato-based starter) along with anticuchos (inspired by Peruvian street food) before digging into a plato principal (a choice of platters to share). Don’t leave without trying some their awesome pisco cocktails and if you can’t decide what to get, you can never go wrong with the classic pisco sour. Tiger’s Milk They also have a food truck at Timbre+ and we were thrilled to taste some delicious Louisiana Chicken Gumbo there. Big Bern’s American Grill
Address: 257 Beach Road and 11 Tanjong Katong Road
Tel: 6396 9096 and 6702 2456
Opening hours: Check here
Credit: Facebook[/caption]
Credit: 
Credit: Facebook[/caption]
Credit: Facebook[/caption]
Address: 6 Bukit Pasoh Road, Singapore 089820
Tel: 6221 0132
Opening hours: Daily; 12pm to 2:30pm (Lunch), 6pm to 12mn (Dinner)
Credit: Facebook[/caption]
Credit: Facebook[/caption]
Address: 28 Ann Siang Road, Singapore 069708
Tel: 6808 2183
Opening hours: 5pm to 1am (Mon to Thur), 5pm to 2am (Fri to Sat)
Credit: 
Credit: Facebook[/caption]
Address: 978 Toa Payoh North #02-01, Singapore 319001
Tel: 6710 7362
Opening hours: 11:30am to 9pm (Daily)
Best Brunch Spots In Singapore For The Non-Early Risers
True Heroes – 4 Invisible Jobs Singaporeans Take For Granted
Most of us Singaporeans are always on the go -we spend long hours at work and school before squeezing in a few hours to spend time with loved ones. Most of us are so wrapped up in our own busy lives that we tend to forget about those who make our lives so much easier.
Here are 4 jobs that are vital to Singapore (and to us Singaporeans), but aren’t getting the appreciation that they deserve!
1. Bus Captains
[caption id="attachment_21548" align="alignnone" width="1024"]
Annabelle Law Productions[/caption]
Let’s be honest, we often take bus captains for granted. Think about it: when was the last time you thanked your friendly bus uncle? We might even assume that their job is easy, being that they just need to drive on the same routes day in and out.
Well, it isn’t at all.
Bus captains work long hours – they’re on the clock weekdays, weekends, public holidays rain or shine. Most importantly, they’re in charge of keeping thousands of commuters safe.
Bus captains are even faced with potentially violent situations, such as the three SBS Transit bus captains who were assaulted on New Year’s Eve. While these accidents are far and few in between, they do still occur to local bus captains who are just trying to make a living.
So what are we doing to ensure that our bus captains are getting more recognition?
The National Transport Workers’ Union (NTWU) has been busy meeting the 4 public bus operators to ensure bus captains get better pay, career progression and benefits.
NTWU was deeply involved in helping bus captains transit to Tower Transit, a newcomer in the Singapore public bus industry:
NTWU negotiated with Go-Ahead to keep their compensation package competitive:
The union also got SBS Transit to increase its gross monthly pay by more than 15%, with sign on bonus of $3,000 for Singaporeans and PRs:
And convinced SMRT to match the employment packages offered by the other public transport operators.
longer than what civil servants get. SBS Transit has also adopted a Progressive Wage Model where 
, like an extra 95 hours a month! The security sector has the they face, security officers still remain a set for the security industry. Firms also had to ensure that their security officers completed the required 
NTUC[/caption]
The PWM has been set to not and retaining existing security officers.
The next step is convincing buyers of security contracts to use security assessments so they know what kind of security they need, instead of making security officers work long hours just to show face.
TL;DR: The Progressive Wage Model helps security officers get proper training, a career path and higher pay. But the industry still suffers from 
, long working hours and were given to construction workers. This does not include across industries, and this includes construction. In Singapore, wages for foreign workers are determined by market demand and supply for labour.
In Singapore, the Workplace Safety and Health Council (WSHC) ensures that workers across several industries are working in safe environments. WSHC carries out training and safety awareness campaigns for workers and employers, as well as conduct regular workplace safety inspections.
video source: Yahoo
Organizations like , to
TL;DR: Construction workers face a variety of issues that come with working in Singapore. Organizations such as MWC ensure that migrant workers receive the aid they need.
4. Cleaners
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Singapore Kindness Movement [/caption]
Singapore is known around the globe as a clean and green city. Our streets and public buildings are squeaky clean, and it’s hard to find a filthy mall or street full of trash in Singapore.
While we pride ourselves on being one of the cleanest countries in the world, the truth is that all the recognition should be going to the cleaners who work tirelessly to ensure Singapore is clean 24/7.
But how much do cleaners earn?
In June 2015, the median monthly basic wages of full-time resident cleaners was $1,100.
Recently, the Tripartite Cluster for Cleaners (TCC) gave three recommendations to improve cleaners’ wages.
The TCC recommended that from 2017 to 2022, wage adjustments and increases, as well as annual bonuses should be enjoyed by those employed in the cleaning industry.
Cleaners can expect a total boost of $200 to their wages from 2017 to 2020. Since annual bonuses currently aren’t mandatory for cleaners, it’s a relief to know that from 2020, cleaners can expect to see a 3% increase in their wages every year till 2022, as well as an annual bonus (equivalent of 2 weeks of wages).
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Wage Increase And Annual Bonuses For Cleaners[/caption]
TCC’s recommendations are TL;DR: Cleaners will see an increase in their wages from 2017 to 2022, but what happens after 2022? Will their wages still be held ransom to cheap-sourcing?
What’s The Future Like For These Essential Jobs?
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called for an update to the Government Procurement Act.
The Labour Movement will be pushing for two main updates – mainly the Principle of Proportionality (which means clients cannot slap exorbitant fines on service providers), and the addressing of one-sided contracts which put service providers and their staff at huge disadvantages (think unlimited changes)
If the government sets the benchmark in best-sourcing for quality, reliable service providers with fair contracts that allow outsourced staff to have better jobs and pay, perhaps the rest of Singapore will follow the government’s example.
Outsourced workers will benefit from contracts that are fairer, and in the long run, increase the wages they will be receiving.
So the next time you meet these workers, remember the struggles they go through, and what you can do to help them, even if it’s a kind word, act or learning more about their jobs.
Also Read: 4 Jobs That Aren’t As ‘Bulletproof’ As You Once Thought
Top 8 ‘Spoil Market’ Ang Pao Designs Worth Queuing Up For This Chinese New Year!
Chinese New Year is all about the amazing festive foods and the family get-togethers you love to hate but it’s also about ANG PAOS! While we can all agree it’s what inside that matters the most, ang pao designs have definitely upped their game in the recent years. We went on a little scavenger hunt to track down this year’s cutest looking ang pao designs!
1. DBS
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DBS[/caption]
DBS went all out for their own 2017 ang pao design. Featuring flowers and fans, the cute kids on the ang pao are just the cherry on top of a really sweet treat. Probably one of the few ang pao designs that fills the entire space, DBS has upped the standard for their ang paos.
2. Yellow Octopus
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Yellow Octopus[/caption]
Local marketing company Yellow Octopus has come up with a more modern and contemporary design for their 2017 ang paos. Mainly featuring yellow, red and splashes of blue this ang pao is perfect if you’re looking for a more sleek ang pao packets to hand out this year.
3. Peel Fresh
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Peel Fresh[/caption]
Who knew Peel Fresh churned out their own ang paos? We sure didn’t! Featuring a golden etched ball and a Chinese character that makes up the word ‘Spring’ the simple ang pao design reminds us of a pineapple (or is that just us?)!
4. Popeyes
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Popeyes[/caption]
Popeye’s played up this year’s Rooster year by featuring them on their very own ang pao packets. We must admit they’re insanely cute and check out what they did to the ‘Prosperity’ character. Cute and innovate, WIN!
5. POSB
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POSB[/caption]
Family friendly, cute, colourful and featuring POSB’s official mascot, POSB’s ang pao design this year is cute enough to give both kids and umm..much older (single) kids. You can goodbye to multiple ang pao designs because all you really need is THIS ONE.
6. Standard Charterd
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Standard Charterd[/caption]
Standard Chartered has kept it all traditional this festive season. With gold etched flowers on a simple red background and the Chinese New Year greeting “prosperity will bloom for you in full richness”, do your parents a favour and get this traditional ang pao for them (you might even get a bigger ang pao than expected)!
6. UNIQLO
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UNIQLO[/caption]
UNIQLO has kept to its roots this festive season by coming up with a simple Ang Pao design. Featuring a scattering of gold boxes and the Chinese character for ‘Prosperity’, this Ang Pao is a minimalist’s dream!
7. UOB
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UOB[/caption]
Featuring geometric shapes, this year’s UOB ang pao design has several roosters adorning the ang baos. The perfect balance of traditional and modern, this year’s UOB ang bao is simple yet colourful enough to grab our attention.
8. McDonald’s
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McDonald’s[/caption]
McDonald’s has churned out a series of ang paos featuring their Big Mac, French Fries and Strawberry Sundae. Colourful and very different from your usual red themed ang paos, McDonald’s 2017 ang pao design is already making us crave for their eats!
This festive season uou can finally throw away your boring old red packets and get queuing for these cute and pretty unique ang paos! Which one is YOUR favourite? Let us know in the comments!
(feature image: Kenny Louie)
Also Read: 10 Activities To Do During Chinese New Year That Doesn’t Involve Empty Malls
Dying Art Culture? Nope. Here’s What To Expect During Singapore Art Week 2017
Singapore is often lamented for being a concrete jungle, lacking in arts and culture. To all the naysayers out there, Singapore Art Week 2017 will reveal our Little Red Dot’s big artistic accomplishments!
From 11 to 22 January 2017, explore art exhibitions, festivals and tours located at various places such as Little India, Gillman Barracks and Far East Plaza.
With over 90 different activities happening during Singapore Art Week 2017, trying to catch each one might be tough.
Here’s our pick of the top 10 exhibitions, festivals and activities you must not miss for an unforgettable local art and culture experience.
Art After Dark at Gillman Barracks
An annual crowd favourite, Art After Dark at Gillman Barracks will be back this year on 13th January, from 7pm to 11pm.
Expect a night of incredible talent with live music acts, new exhibits by the Gillman Barracks art tenants and galleries, irresistible F&B pop-ups, and the unveiling of Gillman Barrack’s public art project!
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Peranakan x Star Wars made-in-Japan pieces that will be up for sale at Design New Standard[/caption]
One such exhibit is the Supermama’s Design New Standard, featuring a precious collection of “omiyage”, or contemporary giftware, made by Singaporean and Japanese designers and craftmakers.
Art After Dark x SAW2017
13 Jan 2017, 7pm till late
Gillman Barracks, 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937
Weblink
Contemporary Printmaking Festival
Discover the intricate art of printmaking at the Contemporary Printmaking Festival 2017.
Featuring local printmakers such as PHUNK and the Gentlemen’s Press, uncover a weekend of printmaking heaven.
You can even look forward to a Print Your Own Selfie workshop with Jackson Tan from PHUNK.
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Print your own selfie with stamps created by Jackson Tan of PHUNK[/caption]
Learn how to make silkscreen, letterpress and traditional Intaglio printing from printmakers themselves at live demonstrations and printing workshops.
Contemporary Printmaking Festival 2017
11 – 22 Jan
Open plaza at Capitol Piazza, 13 Stamford Rd, Singapore 178905
Weblink
Aliwal Urban Art Festival
Soak in the cool atmosphere that accompanies Street Culture at the annual Aliwal Urban Art Festival.
Get ready to be wowed by impressive and renowned talent present at the festival, such as local bands Tomgirl, Urban Artists, and RSCLS!
Here’s what you can expect from a single night at Aliwal Urban Art Festival 2017: Hip Hop Block Parties, Urban Art faceoffs, Live Performances by Poptart, Forests, and Ant-men, live DJ performances, Skateboarding challenges and even Indigoism’s Barter Market!
Aliwal Urban Art Festival
14 Jan, 5pm till late
Aliwal Arts Centre, 28 Aliwal Street, Singapore 199918
Weblink
State of Motion 2017: Through Stranger Eyes
For this activity, audiences will be presented with feature films where Singapore made an appearance.
While watching the films, you’ll be seeing the transformation of Singapore through strangers’ eyes.
Starting from the Pavilion at the National Library, audiences will be taken on a 3-hour bus tour to visit the exact locations seen in the films.
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Scene from The Wild Eye, 1967, where a director brings his crew and lover around Singapore in the 60s[/caption]
Site-specific artwork and works by Amanda Lee Koe, The Observatory, and more will be present at each location to further enhance the experience.
Afterwards, audiences can attend the talks and panel discussions held to get a deeper understanding of the appearance of Singapore in cinema.
Register for tickets
6 Jan – 5 Feb, 10am – 9pm daily (excluding PH)
The Plaza, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street, Singapore 188064
Coupled with her book launch at One East Asia Gallery, she will be baring all with personal writings, news articles, and photographic work in chronological order.
Come for the tongue-in-cheek, colloquially funny artworks, and stay for the honest sharing of her growth and thought processes behind her creations.
RSVP now at +65 6737 1819 or [email protected] for the opening at 6:30pm.
Greetings from Singapore
10 – 31 Jan, 12 – 7pm
One East Asia Gallery, 15 Scotts Road, #09-03 Thong Teck Building, Singapore 228218
Weblink
Wings of a Rich Manoeuvre
Made from over 14,000 Swarovski crystals, with eight wing-like kinetic chandeliers (each 1.2m long), and accentuated by LED light, homegrown artist Suzann Victor took 2 years to complete this masterpiece.
A perfect representation of the National Museum of Singapore’s authentic 19th-century neo-Palladian architecture melding with the modern glass wing, the artwork was designed to reflect light that shines through the glass windows.
They sway to 8 different swinging patterns as well, and can even form the shape of a dragon due to the customised electromagnets within.
No Regrets For Our Youth
Created by Singapore art collective DXXXXD, No Regrets For Our Youth explores the obsession with #fitspo and gym life that has proliferated in our society. In an attempt to understand the relationship one has with their body as a health or vanity focus, DXXXXD has transformed Music Studio 1 in Aliwal Arts Centre into an artistic jungle gym. This exhibit will feature sculptures in the form of common gym equipment, and may even offer bodybuilding and wrestling workshops. No Regrets For Our Youth Running for the 3rd year in a row, ARTWALK Little India is a public art project set in Little India. Set to the theme of Your Path To Remember, audiences this year are encouraged to walk through Little India and uncover the memories and stories of Singapore’s past. There’ll be live performances, retelling of folktales and mythologies, as well as mesmerising art installations. Art Stage Singapore
The leading Asian Art Fair, Art Stage Singapore connects art lovers from all over the world with the best of Asian Contemporary Art. The 7th edition this year, expect a plethora of artwork as there are over 20 galleries with art from 27 countries. Get your tickets Curated by Khairuddin Hori, this exhibition will showcase new commissions by artists such as Cleon Peterson, Zheng Lu and Oanh Phi Phi, as well as Singapore artists Gerald Leow and Sheryo+Yok. One of the renowned international artists featured is Kristen Berg, most known for her captivating works at Burning Man. For those of us who are unable to travel to Arizona annually for Burning Man, catch a glimpse of the experience with her sculptures at LOCK ROUTE from 13 Jan – 30 June at Gillman Barracks! LOCK ROUTE Just writing this compilation is making us excited for the launch of Singapore Art Week 2017! Best of all, a number of these art exhibitions and installations will be around for an extended period of time, perfect for those of us with busy schedules. With only 10 out of over 90 art and culture activities recommended in this article, we understand if you are feeling some FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)? Whether you would like to read up on the other 80 activities or plan your weekend around the art exhibitions, why not follow A List Singapore for an in-depth guide on Singapore Art Week 2017? As Singapore’s first full-fledged arts and culture guide, you can find comprehensive event listings from music to dance, visual arts to theatre, and literary to family activities. Besides event listings, you can also be updated with the arts and culture scene with their plethora of thought-provoking articles. With a Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and even a Youtube page, you can follow A List Singapore on all your favourite platforms and never fear missing out on the local art scene. If you love the smell of a fresh magazine, keep a look out on their social media channels for when their January hard copy issue will be distributed at SMRT Stations island-wide! This Singapore Art Week, embark on a meaningful and reflective journey as you appreciate the arts and culture scene. The amazing talent in our sunny island may just wow you. Also, read Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss!
12 Jan – 12 Feb, 11am to 8pm daily.
Music Studio 1, Aliwal Arts Centre, 28 Aliwal Street, Singapore 199918
Weblink ARTWALK Little India
Image courtesy of LASELLE College of the Arts[/caption]
Water Dripping—Splashing, Zheng Lu. Image courtesy of Zheng Lu[/caption]
Nestscape by Thai Artist Mook[/caption]
12 – 14 Jan, 12pm – 8pm; 15 Jan, 11am – 6pm
Sands Expo & Convention Centre, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956
Snake by Gerald Leow, featured at Singapore Art Museum’s front lawn in 2013[/caption]
Constellation of One, Kristen Berg. Photo courtesy of Kristen Berg[/caption]
13 Jan – 30 June
Gillman Barracks, 9 Lock Road, Singapore 108937
WeblinkA List Singapore – Your Guide To The Arts And Culture Scene In Singapore
Into The Looking Glass: A Local Exhibition You Must Not Miss!
If you haven’t heard, the Singapore Biennale is in town right now, as part of Singapore Art Week 2017!
From now till 26 February, grab your friends and family and attend this eye-opening arts exhibition. We visited Project Dreamcatchers 2016: Into The Looking Glass and it was a rewarding experience.
Project Dreamcatchers 2016: Into The Looking Glass
Project Dreamcatchers is an initiative to help youths with chronic illnesses express their aspirations through art. Despite the many odds these youths face, they soldier on and reveal their struggles through the art they produce.
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Into The Looking Glass exhibition[/caption]
This year, the exhibition at the Singapore Biennale is called ‘Into The Looking Glass’. Aptly named, this exhibition invites visitors to see the world through the artists’ eyes. ‘Into The Looking Glass’ certainly caught our eyes with its display of vulnerability and invitations to connect with its viewers.
Here are four reasons why you should drop by!
Support Local Artists
These budding local artists are partnered with mentors who guide and help them through the production of their art pieces.
Mentors include local artists Samantha Lo, Ho Wai Kit, Noor Iskandar and Tan Jia Hui, who worked closely with the youths to bring their messages to life through art.
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By Sophie Arinie, titled Heart’s Rosary Night. If we just focus on the brighter side of ourselves, we will see ourselves soaring in this wonderful voyage.[/caption]
Sparked by the initial question of what they wish to tell the public, these artworks are personal messages from the youths.
A Stunning Array of Unique Artwork
The artists and youths used mixed mediums and materials ranging from mirrors to plants. They were chosen carefully to best represent the artist’s journey and message, and to elicit the desired response from the viewer.
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These three jars represent Faith, Fear, and Freedom respectively. The messages on the jars show how the artists interpret, express and reconcile the emotions within them.[/caption]
While touching the artwork is not permitted, viewers can interact with the artworks in different ways, like seeing themselves in the reflections of Rayna’s art piece.
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Rayna Tan explains that her art piece depicts the notion of self-image through the journey of life, with each face representing a turning point in the author’s life, and in her journey towards recovery.[/caption]
From this, we can better experience and appreciate the depiction of the artists’ personal journey through life.
Touching Stories
Accompanying each art piece is a personal message by the artist about the inspiration behind their artwork.
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By Sarah Tan, titled Imperfect.[/caption]
Titled ‘Imperfect’, this plywood art piece was painted over with acrylic paint, and the words were scratched out using pigment ink.
Her words of truth, as of those of the other artists, come from a yearning to be heard, recognised and understood.
End Discrimination
Art is an expression of oneself, and a means throughout history of breaking down barriers. When we take the step to understand and look from the perspectives of these youths, we’re helping to end the discrimination they face.
[caption id="attachment_21049" align="aligncenter" width="2400"]
By Toh Keat Siang, titled HEART.[/caption]
In this art piece, items essential to the artist are put together and held up. When light is projected on these items, a silhouette of a human heart is formed.
Syringes and tablets may not be our essential items, but Toh’s art piece reminds us that we’re all the same inside.
With ‘Into The Looking Glass’, visitors stand to appreciate and support the fight against the discrimination of our youths. Listen to their stories through their art and acknowledge the difficulties they face, and their creativity and presence.
In our ever-increasing world of connectivity, it is exhibitions like Into The Looking Glass that will truly connect us with others on a deeper level.
Disconnect from the bombardment of stories and listen to individual ones by our local youths and artists.
A List Singapore – Your Guide To The Arts And Culture Scene In Singapore
If this exhibition has ignited a desire in you to attend more of such arts and culture happenings in Singapore, why not follow A List Singapore?
As Singapore’s first full-fledged arts and culture guide, you can find comprehensive event listings from music to dance, visual arts to theatre, and literary to family activities. Besides event listings, you can also be updated to the arts and culture scene with their plethora of thought-provoking articles.
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Singapore’s talented actress – Oon Shu An with the various Singapore Art Week 2017 events she might attend[/caption]
Be in the know as they feature up-and-coming promising artists and the shakers and makers of the art industry.
For the latest arts & cultural events happening in Singapore, follow them on their Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
If you love the smell of a fresh magazine, keep a look out on their social media channels for when their January hard copy issue will be distributed at SMRT Stations island-wide!
Take the step to explore the rich and rewarding art and culture scene in Singapore; you never know what you might learn and experience along the way!
Also, read 10 Places To Fly Your Drone For Amazing, Never Seen Before Photos Of Singapore!
It’s Never Too Late For A Decadent New Year’s Eve Feast At FOO’D by Davide Oldani!
The New Year’s weekend is upon us, and everyone is already gearing up for a long weekend of gatherings and the oncoming slew of treats.
However, while most would have already made plans for New Year’s Eve dinner weeks ago, there are some of us who are…busier (*ahem* procrastinators), and are still on the look out for a spot to indulge in a year end feast.
Don’t fret! We’ve found an elegant restaurant that will be serving up some mouthwatering and decadent eats this festive season!
FOO’D by Davide Oldani
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Victoria Theatre[/caption]
Located within the iconic Victoria Theatre, FOO’D by Davide Oldani serves modern European fare. Fusing tradition with innovation, the food at FOO’D by Davide Oldani strikes the perfect balance between simple and refined.
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Cucina POP[/caption]
Founded upon the principles of Cucina POP, which simultaneously means “for everyone” and “belonging to everyone”, the menu at FOO’D was conceptualized by Italian celebrity Chef Davide Oldani.
Chef owner of Michelin-starred D’O in Cornaredo, Italy, Oldani strives to blur the lines between fine dining with accessibility, and tradition with innovation.
Hazelnut And Lambrusco Sorbet Dessert
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Hazelnut and Lambrusco Sorbet Dessert[/caption]
Chef Davide Oldani’s hazelnut and lambrusco sorbet dessert is a testament to his creative culinary journey. Pairing hazelnut, lambrusco sorbet, and popcorn, this impeccable dessert showcases Oldani’s gift for intertwining complementary textures in his dishes.
The satisfying crunch of popcorn matches well with the refreshing and slightly sweet lambrusco sorbet. A unique and decadent culinary creation, this modern dessert is the perfect end to a decadent meal at FOO’D!
Oldani’s Marsala And Truffle Risotto
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Decadent European fare[/caption]
Looking for something a tad more traditional?
Then Oldani’s risotto is a must-have!
Crafted with handmade sourdough breadcrumbs, peppercorn, Marsala and Umbrian truffle, the risotto has the rich creaminess of a perfectly cooked risotto.
With a dash of vinegar and the underlying touch of sweetness from the Marsala, Oldani’s risotto is an innovative culinary creation that is a must-have for any self-proclaimed food connoisseur.
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Chef Oldani’s pushes traditional culinary boundaries[/caption]
The sleek and modern interior that diners at FOO’D enjoy alongside their meal is also due in part to Oldani dabbling in industrial design.
Seeking to make every diners’ experience comfortable, Oldani has utilized innovative flatware such as wine glasses with one rim set higher than the other, allowing diners to not only fully appreciate the full bouquet of the wine but maintain eye contact with their partners as well. An overall elegant and comfortable dining experience, FOO’D puts diners’ needs at the forefront.
New Year’s Eve isn’t complete without a mouthwatering decadent feast. Tagged at $158++ and $188++ for its 5 and 7 course New Year’s Eve Dinner Menu, end your 2016 right with FOOD’s by Davide Oldani decadent feast.
So experience a culinary adventure with loved ones at FOO’D by Davide Oldani, as you indulge in modern European fare that pushes the boundaries and tantalizes the taste buds!
Also Read: Dessert Buffets In Singapore: So You Can Gorge On Ice Cream, Cakes & Chocolate!
These 7 Spoil Market Proposals Will Really Make You Panic If All The Good Guys Are Taken
There’s nothing like watching a wedding proposal. The romance, the nervous energy, the overall #Feels you get and of course watching the look of pure joy from the bride-to-be’s face could melt a heart of stone. Here are 7 reactions from Singapore girls who were proposed to all over Singapore!
1.
This Singapore proposal starts off with the bride-to-be (Melissa) sitting at a cafe in Singapore’s Changi Airport before she’s surrounded by a singing and dancing flash mob.
Of course her husband-to-be (John) heads the dancing flash mob with the Singapore Show Choir Academy performing the old classic ‘Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love For You’.
The proposal ends with happy tears, a huge crowd and even a few dancing flight attendants!
Props to John for going big on his proposal. The time and effort it probably took to pull this off! And let’s not forget, nothing is as nerve wrecking as proposing in front of a huge audience!
Check out the very cute and musical proposal HERE!
2.
Taking place backstage, a huge dance crew sits to watch a dance performance (by their very own). 9 dance performers pull the ‘bride-to-be’ centre stage before there’s a skip in the song. Lo and behold! The ‘bride-to-be’ pulls one of performers on the seat on stage instead (the look of shock-surprise definitely got to us)!
Fiance-to-be (Faliq), stands up from the audience belting out along to “Marry You” causing girlfriend Shazi to start tearing up. Faliq then goes on to to tell his girlfriend and the crowd, the many reasons why he fell in love with her (despite failing the MRT test)!
Faliq pulls off a stunning proposal. Funny, romantic and taking bride-to-be Shaz completely by surprise this Singapore proposal had us feeling all warm and fuzzy!
Check out the EPIC proposal HERE!
3.
Taking place at Marina Barrage, this Singapore proposal started off with a bit of a squabble (“You want to sit here?!”) before groom-to-be, Raihan turns his fiancee-to-be, Huda around to check out ‘the view’.
The view being dancers from EYED movement doing a small flashmob performance along to a remix of “Treasure”. Raihan then further surprises Huda with a gathering of family and friends, he then of course goes on bended knee and pops the question to a teary eyed Huda.
Family and friends made this particular proposal really heart-warming. Reminding us that even though only two people are joined in matrimony family and friends play a major role as well.
Check out the family filled proposal HERE!
4.
What’s more romantic than a destination proposal? A romantic destination proposal which takes you completely off-guard of course! Bride-to-be Meiting was treated to a slideshow made by boyfriend Shunxiong (who took several late nights to finish it).
Already teary-eyed, Meiting is then brought to the sandy beaches of Maldives where Shunxiong is already waiting with a bouquet of red roses.
He then pops the question on bended knee whereby teary eyed Meiting replies with a pretty Singaporean answer, “Yes lah!”.
While the destination proposal is probably a rarity among Singaporeans, what really got us impressed was the time and effort groom-to-be Shunxiong took to do up the slideshow.
Check out the romantic destination proposal HERE!
5.
Unsuspecting bride-to-be Karen watches a flashmob perform along to the Bruno Mars hit “I Think I Want To Marry You”. Karen doesn’t suspect a thing, until the flashmob performers unveil the message ‘Will U Marry Me?”. Karen then has friends and family gather around her making way for groom-to-be Ivan. Ivan proclaims his love for Karen before popping the very important question.
While the proposal was pretty simple compared to several big proposals, the simplicity of the proposal just made it all the more romantic.
Check out the cute proposal HERE!
6.
Set at the Botanic Gardens, unsuspecting bride-to-be Elizabeth is brought out of the park’s restaurant with her arms full of single stalk flowers. She’s brought around the Botanic Gardens with friends and family handing her hand written notes, balloons and flowers.
The peak of the walk comes when she’s brought to the park’s pavilion where boyfriend Gary is awaiting her arrival. He hands her a huge bouquet of red roses and pops the question we all know is coming.
This simple proposal had no flashmob, music or performances. Yet it’s the presence of family and friends who were around to spend the special day with, that made this proposal all the more romantic.
Check out the simple and romantic proposal HERE.
7.
Bride and groom-to-be, Johnathan and Patrina walk into a church together. Unsuspecting Patrina then gets a pleasant surprise when Johnathan pulls out a guitar and starts serenading her (with his own composition mind you!).
Patrina instantly tears up as the church starts to fill with family and friends. The Singapore Show Choir that joins in on the performance singing backup for Johnathan.
Johnathan hands her a bouquet of flowers before going down on bended knee. Patrina, with teary eyes and a big smile replies with “Of course I will”.
The proposal was all the more romantic when you pay close attention to the lyrics of the song Johnathan composed. Offering viewers a small snippet of their lives together. And of course the way Johnathan looks at (now) fiancee Patrina, got us all hoping that one day we might be so lucky!
These 7 Singaporean proposals, not only got us girls daydreaming about our own proposals (that are hopefully going to come someday)! Let’s hope 2017 will see a lot more jawdropping – romantic proposals come our way!
Also Read: Dessert Buffets In Singapore: So You Can Gorge On Ice Cream, Cakes & Chocolate!
