Many of us are familiar with Geylang Serai for its rich cultural identity and vibrant sights and sounds, but did you know that its name is said to have derived from a lemongrass factory (Kilang Serai) located east of the Kallang River? Discover more interesting history and stories of Kallang and Geylang at the upcoming season of Arts in Your Neighbourhood (AYN) organised by the National Arts Council as AYN returns from 12 to 29 November.
For the very first time, AYN’s line-up will be supplemented with digital offerings, presenting a blend of 11 digital and physical programmes co-created with artists, arts organisations and community partners. This will allow audiences to appreciate and participate in arts activities, right at their doorstep and fingertips. From online music, dance and theatre performances to visual art murals and a dynamic light projection display on the façade of Old Airport Road Hawker Centre, enjoy an engaging line-up of multi-genre and interactive arts experiences from the comfort of your homes or up close in person. With programmes inspired by the towns and its people, the arts showcase the resilience of our communities and foster a sense of belonging by encouraging residents and Singaporeans alike, to rediscover the stories of their neighbourhoods through the arts, from wherever they are.
In addition, parents and children can look forward to Let’s Partea!, a series of virtual performances specially curated for young audiences, and hosted live by dynamic theatre actor Dwayne Lau every Sunday of AYN. Little ones can discover the power of imagination in an interactive theatre performance by Bitesize Theatre Productions, and venture into the world of jazz music through a music performance by Hummingbird Music. Families can also embark on an adventure right at their fingertips and take a virtual “walk” around Kallang River, in an interactive choose-your-own-adventure story by digital storytelling studio Tusitala and author Akshita Nanda.
Admission is free for all events, and audiences will be required to follow the existing safe distancing measures when attending outdoor programmes and practise personal social responsibility. More details can be found online at https://artsforall.gov.sg/AYN.
