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September 2003   October 2003   November 2003   December 2003  January 2004   February 2004   April 2004   July 2004
Public Holidays

1 Sep 2003 to 11 Oct 2003

For the first time, The Theatre Practice and the Theatre Training and Research Programme join The Substation to present Septfest 2003 in a celebration of the life and work of our mutual founder, Kuo Pao Kun. The programmes include the Kuo Pao Kun Festival, held for the very first time, exhibitions and launch of a new publication on Kuo Pao Kun.
Some of the highlights of the Kuo Pao Kun Festival are as follows :
17 to 21 September 2003, 8 pm at Guinness Theatre: Descendants of the Eunich Admiral in Mandarin
24 to 28 September 2003, 8 pm at Guinness Theatre: The Coffin Is Too Big For The Hole
1 to 5 October 2003, 8 pm at Guinness Theatre: Descendants of the Eunuch Admiral in Malay
10 to 14 September, 8 pm at Guinness Theatre: Tartuffe
1 to 16 September, 11 am to 9 pm at the Gallery: Exhibition by Ye Shufang
5 September 2003, 8pm at Garden: Gig
18 September to 8 October 2003, 11 am to 9pm at the Gallery: The Home that Pao Kun Built
27 September 2003, 6pm at the Gallery: Launch of 'Stitch A Quilt of Memories - Kuo Pao Kun's Stories'
7 to 11 October 2003, 8 pm at Guinness Theatre: Asian Film Symposium 3 - A Moving Images Prgramme

2 Sep 2003 to 19 Oct 2003

Come and be part of an enthralling and unprecedented exhibition of over 100 original woodblock prints exemplifying the birth and evolution of China's historic Creative Woodblock Print Movement as well as its influence on the artists who matured after the Cultural Revolution. Until now, no other exhibition on this subject of this scope has been shown internationally and almost no literature existed on the Creative Woodblock Print Movement in the western language. So, don't miss this rare opportunity that comes right in front of your eyes in Singapore
Opening hours :
Tuesdays to Saturdays: 9.30 am to 8 pm
Sundays and Mondays: 1 pm to 5 pm
Closed on Public Holidays

 Spirit of Wood

5 Sep 2003 to 30 Nov 2003

The Spirit of Wood exhibition will examine traditional Malay woodcarving from the Northeastern states of the Malay peninsula. The exhibition comprises over 150 works of art that explore the traditions, techniques and philosophy of Malay woodcarving. From architectural elements like mosques and palaces to everyday items like cake moulds and tackle boxes, this exhibition is an expression of the creator's artistry and creative spirit. The collection includes carvings by famed Malaysian woodcarver, the late Nik Rashiddin Nik Hussein and Norhaiza Noordin.
Opening hours :
Monday, 12pm to 6pm
Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 6pm
Friday, 9am to 9pm (Free admission after 6pm)

 "Hola!" from Mexico - A Travelling Exhibition by Servicio Postal Mexicano

11 Sep 2003 to 5 Oct 2003

In conjunction with the 10th Anniversary of "Festival Mexicano" organised by the Embassy of Mexico, a travelling display of stamps issued by the Mexican Postal Service (Servicio Postal Mexicano) has made its way to Singapore. Having travelled from Beijing, Shanghai, Japan, Korea and Indonesia, the exhibition will make a 25-day stop at the Singapore Philatelic Museum from 11 September to 5 October 2003. Check out an exciting display of 860 commemorative stamps which reflect the historical, artistic and cultural influences that shape modern Mexico. You will learn about the early settlers in Mexico, crafts, music, dance, food festivals and more!
Exhibition Timing:
Monday - 12pm to 6pm
Tuesday to Sunday - 9am to 6pm

 Inspiring Artistes

24 Sep 2003 to 13 Oct 2003

It is the time of the year to be mesmerized by the Inspiring Artistes concert series. Some very enthralling events are featured in this series which will surely entertain you!

Konstantin Scherbakov who has been hailed by critics as the world’s foremost interpreter of the entire Rachmaninov piano repertoire will be playing pieces from Etudes-tableaux, Moments Musicaux, Morceaux de Fantasie, Op. 23 Preludes and also the famous Variations on a Theme of Chopin Op 22. In keeping with the spirit of Inspiring Artistes concerts, Konstantin Scherbakov will also be performing with the NUS Symphony Orchestra. The Orchestra will celebrate Russian Masters by performing the works of Mussorgsky, Rachmaninov and Tchaikovsky.

There will also be two free admission events during this period. The first would be a "Talk-cum-mini-performance", in which the NUS Symphony Orchestra members will give talks on the Russian school of playing and at the same time give a mini-performance, which would be an entertaining prelude to their concert, celebrating Russian Masters. The second would be a screening of the Film "Brief Encounter". This movie by Noel Coward’s play, Still Life, legendary filmmaker David Lean deftly explores the thrill and tenderness of an illicit romance in the dour Britain of 1945. From a meeting on a train platform, a middle-aged married doctor and a suburban housewife enter into a quietly passionate, ultimately doomed love affair, set to a swirling Rachmaninov score. Nominated for three Academy Awards, this is a must-see film before watching the Rachamaninov performance by Konstantin Scherbakov! Finally the series round up with two Masterclasses open to all music enthusiasts by Konstantin Scherbakvo and Silver-Garbang Piano Duo respectively.

 Navarathiri Festival

26 Sep 2003 to 4 Oct 2003

Meaning "nine nights" in Tamil, the Navarathiri Festival is celebrated in honour of Mother Goddess who takes the form of Sri Durga (depicts power), Sri Lakshmi (depicts wealth) and Sri Saraswathy (depicts knowledge). On the 10th night, which is called Vijayadhashami - meaning the Day of Victory, the statue of Mother Goddess is decorated on a horse chariot and is paraded around the temple in a show of victory over the demon Mahishasuran. Throughout the festival, the various Hindu temples will showcase many classical music and dance performances. Temple etiquette requires visitors to be dressed appropriately and shoes to be removed at the door.

 Pilgrimage to Kusu Island

26 Sep 2003 to 24 Oct 2003

Legend has it that a turtle once saved two shipwrecked sailors - a Chinese and a Malay - from drowning. As an act of thanks, the two men built a Chinese temple, a Malay shrine and a huge turtle sculpture on the island. Today, Taoists make an annual pilgrimage to the Tua Pekong Temple on Kusu Island (which means “turtle island” in Chinese) to pray for prosperity, luck and fertility. Event dates would be confirmed closer to the event.

 Singapore JewelFest 2003 - Affair of the Jewel

1 Oct 2003 to 5 Oct 2003 (Parco Bugis Junction)
6 Oct 2003 to 2 Nov 2003 (at all the 74 outlets of the jewellers)

The inaugural Singapore JewelFest 2003 marks a breakthrough in the jewellery industry with Singapore's leading five jewellery chains - D'Meyson Jewellery, Goldheart Jewelry, Lee Hwa Jewellery, Soo Kee Jewellery and TianPo Jewellery - joining forces to create an island-wide jewellery festival.

From 1st to 5th October, jewellery lovers will be thrilled by a showcase of the latest haute couture signature jewellery, fashion shows and dances at Parco Bugis Junction.

During the month long festival, jewellery lovers will enjoy special dining, spa, clubbing, fashion, fragrance and other lifestyle privileges when they purchase any jewellery from the new pret-a-porter 'Passion', 'Romance', 'Sensuality' and 'Confidence' jewellery collections at any of the 74 chain stores islandwide.

To add to the excitement of the Festival, fringe activities such as jewel appreciation lunches and high tea, jewel insight tours to the Asian Civilisations Museum and jewellery factory will provide participants with greater insights and tips on jewellery.

Three lucky tourists will stand a chance to win a pair of return tickets to Singapore and two nights accommodation at Hotel Intercontinental Singapore for next year's Singapore JewelFest.

 Deepavali Light-Up 2003

3 Oct 2003 to 31 Oct 2003

Marking the Festival of Lights, Little India explodes with vibrant colours and lights, especially at the stretch of Serangoon Road and Campbell Lane. Walk down the streets and be dazzled by the beautiful lights and decorations, alluring fragrances, and captivating sounds as Hindus prepare for Deepavali. Soak in the festivities as you check out the festive bazaar on Campbell Lane and enjoy the cultural performances at Kerbau Road.

 All Stars Concert 2003

3 Oct 2003

In conjuction with Takashimaya S.C and Ngee Ann City's 10th Anniversary, Ngee Ann City will have a spectacular stars season this October. Some of the region's pop artistes will be in town to celebrate ten golden years of the shopping mall. Get ready for some celeb chasing and night of partying. Sing and dance along with your favourite artistes as they belt out the latest hits!

 YMCA Little Angels Charity Concert

4 Oct 2003 to 5 Oct 2003

"The Little Angels Symphony Orchestra" from Guangzhou, China, will be performing in Singapore on 4th & 5th October 2003. These 80 young and talented musicians, who have been thrilling audiences worldwide, will be performing in Singapore for the first time ever. This charity concert is organised by YMCA of Singapore and Datin May Lee Leong, a classically trained soprano, who is also a guest vocalist.

 Singapore Symphony Orchestra - Rachmaninov's Second Piano Concerto

4 Oct 2003

Lose yourself in Singapore Symphony Orchestra's weekly repertoire of classical masterpieces, familiar all-time favourites, contemporary as well as exploratory works and more. These maestros continue to surpass the high standards in symphonic music. The former Music Director of the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra Libor Pesek makes his Singapore Symphony Orchestra debut with the music of his fellow countryman Antonin Dvorak. Dvorak's dramatic Seventh Symphony is perhaps the most Slavonic in character of his nine symphonies, and reveals a more tragic side of this usually congenial composer.

The distinguished Penang-born, London-based pianist Dennis Lee returns to perform Rachmaninov's ever-popular Second Piano Concerto. The only famous piece of music dedicated to a psychiatrist, this concerto was the culmination of Rachmaninov's restoration to his full creative powers through hypnotherapy following a bout of depression.

 Singapore Symphony Orchestra - Casual Concert - Classic Romance

5 Oct 2003

Lose yourself in Singapore Symphony Orchestra's weekly repertoire of classical masterpieces, familiar all-time favourites, contemporary as well as exploratory works and more. These maestros continue to surpass the high standards in symphonic music. Casual Concerts are fun one-hour long events where you get to listen to great music performed by the Singapore Symphony Orchestra as well as a chance to meet the conductor, soloist and members of the orchestra. An "unstuffy" and enjoyable way to get started on music. Casual Concerts are ideal for a Sunday afternoon's outing.

 Butterfly Lovers 40 - Liang Shan Bo & Zhu Ying Tai

7 Oct 2003

Be enthralled by one of the biggest veteran musical concert in Singapore! Come and be mesmerised by this beautiful revival of the undying love story between 'Liang Shan-po and Zhu Ying-tai'. Performed by lead protagonist Ling bo and Hu jin, this lavish production is accompanied by a live Chinese Orchestra. The story of Liang Shan-po and Zhu Ying-tai goes back 200 years and has been called the Chinese Romeo and Juliet. A twist to the story is the fact that Zhu Ying-tai was dressed as a boy when the two first met, and they became best friends, carrying on a flirtation that hinted at Zhu's sex. When Zhu was revealed as a woman, her friend Liang immediately fell in love with her. Their love was hindered by Zhu's father, who had set his eyes on a rich husband for his daughter. The pair sacrificed themselves on the altar of love and in death are united as butterflies. This has given the famous story another popular English title, The Butterfly Lovers.

 Silver Chariot Procession

10 Oct 2003 to 13 Oct 2003

Follow this majestic traditional procession as devout Hindus carry the glorious statue of Goddess Draupadi in her towering silver chariot through Chinatown to Little India. Along the way, visit the Hindu Temples in Chinatown and Little India with devotees who will be making offerings to the goddess. Temple etiquette requires visitors to be dressed appropriately and shoes to be removed at the door. The Silver Chariot Procession will not be held on 12 October 2003.

 Singapore Symphony Orchestra - French Impression

10 Oct 2003

Lose yourself in Singapore Symphony Orchestra's weekly repertoire of classical masterpieces, familiar all-time favourites, contemporary as well as exploratory works and more. These maestros continue to surpass the high standards in symphonic music. The best of French music is showcased in this concert that features two members of the Singapore Symphony Orchestra in two varied concertos. The Singapore Symphony Orchestra's Principal Oboist Rachel Walker is the soloist in the jazzy D'horloge de Flore by Jean Fran็aix, a composer well-known for his highly accessible and tuneful scores. Ravel's notorious Bolero evokes the spirit of Spain in a spiraling crescendo of dizzying proportions and closes the first half with a big bang. Singapore Symphony Orchestra violinist Duan Yuling opens the second half of the evening with the virtuosic Fifth Violin Concerto of Henri Vieuxtemps, a work in the finest tradition of the Franco-Belgian violin school.

 Singapore Symphony Orchestra - Bohemian Rhapsody: The Magic of Dvorak

12 Oct 2003

Lose yourself in Singapore Symphony Orchestra's weekly repertoire of classical masterpieces, familiar all-time favourites, contemporary as well as exploratory works and more. These maestros continue to surpass the high standards in symphonic music. The chamber works of Bohemian composer Antonin Dvorak (1841 - 1904) are well known for its warmth, memorable melodies, rhythmic vibrancy and the use of folk idioms from his native homeland. The String Sextet and Piano Quintet are richly endowed with all of these qualities, making this programme a highly enjoyable one. Distinguished Penang-born pianist Dennis Lee, a familiar figure in Singapore's concert life, makes his debut in the Singapore Symphony Orchestra Chamber Ensemble Series.

 Theemidhi Festival

13 Oct 2003

Witness the faith, courage and endurance of Hindu devotees at this breathtaking fire-walking ceremony honouring Goddess Draupadi. According to the Indian epic poem Mahabharata, she proved her innocence by walking barefoot on burning coals. With intense concentration, barefooted devotees likewise brave a four-metre bed of red-hot embers - completing the challenge miraculously unscathed. Festival celebrations begin at 2 am at the Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple; the fire-walking starts at 5.30 am at the Sri Mariamman Temple. Temple etiquette requires visitors to be dressed appropriately and shoes to be removed at the door.

 Kazumasa Oda "Kira Kira" Asia Tour 2003

19 Oct 2003

Kazumasa Oda, artiste, producer, director and a legend in the Japanese music scene started his career as the lead singer of renowned rock band “Off Course” in 1969. The popular band dominated Japan’s rock music scene for a formidable 20 years before disbanding and sparking off Oda’s solo career. Oda is positioned as the best spokesman for romantic ballads with his 1991 chart topping single, “Love Stories Happen Suddenly”, the theme song of the Japanese drama “Tokyo Love Story”. This drama was widely swept over Asia and the love single saw an all-time best selling record of 2.7 million copies across Japan and also positioned Oda as the best spokesman for romantic ballads. Don't miss this opportunity to be mesmerized by the charismatic Oda as he thrills you with his display of musical/instrumental talents and a spread of golden hits such as “Kira Kira”, “My Home Town”, “woh woh”, “Love Stories Happen Suddenly” and many more at this exclusive concert.

 South Africa's Musical Sensation "Umoja" - The Spirit of Togetherness

21 Oct 2003 to 26 Oct 2003

Umoja comes to Singapore direct from London's West End having trilled audiences and critics alike. With a cast of 34 of South Africa's most versatile and talented singers, dancers and drummers and marimba players, Umoja takes the audience on a joyous journey, bringing South African musical history vibrantly to life. From the potent rhythms of tribal music to the foot-stomping jazz of Sophiatown, from the inspirational full-throated joy of Gospel to the powerful energy of Kwaito and Pantsula - Umoja combines the best of South African popular music with incredible dancing and breath-taking performances!
Showtimes :
21 to 24 Oct 2003: 8 pm
25 Oct to 26 Oct 2003: 2.30 pm & 8 pm

 Singapore Symphony Orchestra - Mozart and the Titan

24 Oct 2003 to 25 Oct 2003

Lose yourself in Singapore Symphony Orchestra's weekly repertoire of classical masterpieces, familiar all-time favourites, contemporary as well as exploratory works and more. These maestros continue to surpass the high standards in symphonic music. Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 25 brims with grandeur and vitality, performed by Fou Ts'ong, the doyen of all Chinese pianists. Fou Ts'ong's fame and legend go back to 1955 when he won the third prize at the Chopin International Piano Competition in Warsaw. He was the first Chinese musician to make a name in the West at that time.

 Marcel Marceau

24 Oct 2003 to 25 Oct 2003

Marcel Marceau, universally acclaimed as the world's greatest mime, celebrates 50 years of genius with a commemorative performance of world favorites. Marceau is familiar to millions through his many television appearances. He received two Emmy Awards and appeared on the BBC as 17 different characters in "A Christmas Carol" in 1973 and was conferred the highest artistic honours: Officier de la L้gion d'Honneur, Commandeur des Arts et Lettres, and Grand Officier de l' Ordre National du M้rite by the French Government. Enjoy a rare evening of pure theatrical magic.

 Deepavali

24 Oct 2003

The Festival of Lights celebrates the triumph of light over darkness and of good over evil when the legendary Lord Krishna beheaded the demon Narakasura. Hindu homes are brightly lit with oil lamps to usher in brightness, good fortune and divine blessings. It’s a time of rejoicing as they head for the temple in their colourful new attire, and later visit relatives and friends to receive their blessings. Temple etiquette requires visitors to be dressed appropriately and shoes to be removed at the door.

 Hari Raya Light-Up 2003

25 Oct 2003 to 7 Dec 2003

To mark the beginning of Ramadan (the Muslim fasting month), this ethnic quarter transforms into a lively night bazaar with glittering lights, shimmering floral arrangements and brilliantly-decorated arches. The launch event on 25 October promises a night of cultural performances, Malay celebrity line-ups and an exciting switch-on ceremony. For the rest of the month, join Muslims as they shop for all things sweet and exquisite in preparation for the Hari Raya celebrations. With traditional costumes, curtains, handmade crafts and halal delicacies up for sale, you too would not be able to resist the bargains!

 UIM F1 Powerboat World Championship 2003

25 Oct 2003 to 26 Oct 2003

Experience the adrenaline rush of racing across the waters at 220km/h! The UIM F1 Powerboat World Championship pits 20 drivers from 10 teams against each other as 395 horse-power engines catapult the boats from 0 to 100 in 3 seconds, putting the drivers through turns in excess of 5G! The 7th race of the UIM F1 Powerboat World Champion Season 2003 comes to Singapore's Marina Bay from 25 to 26 October 2003. Be part of the action and take a ride in a powerboat and meet the championship drivers close-up! Come feel the rush!

 Kikunokai Japanese Dance Performance

27 Oct 2003 to 28 Oct 2003

The Kikunokai Japanese Dance Troupe is highly acclaimed for its artistic performance. Founded in 1972 by Michiyo Hata, the Kikunokai has evolved to become one of Japan's most recognized classic Japanese dance troupe. With Japanese classic dance as its foundation, the Kikunokai Dance Troupe incorporates Japanese folk arts into their classic dance and creates a "fusion" of classic dance and folk arts.

 Stella Artoisฎ Screen Starlight Cinema Halloween Horror

30 Oct 2003 to 1 Nov 2003

In conjunction with Halloween, this cinema festival provides another platform to celebrate the occasion. Movies projected on screen is a sure way for one to enjoy horror movies. Under the moonlight, bring your family and friends to join you in the shudder and screams as you watch these never-to-be-forgotten movies.

 "My Universe" - An Exhibition of Ink Works by Irene Chou

31 Oct 2003 to 9 Nov 2003

For the first time in Singapore, iPreciation presents a solo exhibition of works by Shanghai-born artist Irene Chou. Regarded as one of the most innovative artists of New Ink Painting in Hong Kong, 79-year-old Irene currently resides in Brisbane, Australia, where she continues to work tirelessly, after suffering from a stroke in the early 90s. While she recovered from her stroke quickly and began painting again in less than six months, a condition she has had for a long time, atrophy of the cerebellum, continued to worsen. But physical disability has not prevented this determined artist from producing her best works yet during the last ten years. This exhibition will feature rare works produced by Irene from 1993-1996. Some of her important works from this period are also collected by the Queensland Art Gallery, Museum of Fine Art, Boston and Hong Kong Museum of Art.
Gallery Hours:
Monday to Friday - 10:30am to 7:00pm
Saturday, Sunday & Public Holiday - 11:00am to 5:00pm

 Hocus Pocus Nite 2003

31 Oct 2003 to 1 Nov 2003

Hocus Pocus Nite 2003 is back for the 3rd year running! Themed around magic, this unique Halloween extravaganza promises extraordinary fun for families and friends. Join the popular MediaCorp artistes for the Halloween fun, be seriously scared at the "haunted aviaries", where macabre creatures of the night roam side by side with you. Enjoy a thrilling night time stroll around the park and be prepared for ghostly sightings, lots of squeal-filled fun and a totally bewitching experience!
Showtime:
7:00pm to 10:00pm