Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Singapore

Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay is the top performing arts centre in Singapore. This magnificent complex sands at the mouth of Singapore River. It’s commonly referred to as Esplanade or Esplanade Theatres. The place got its name from the nearby Esplanade Park.

Construction of the Esplanade started in 1996 and was completed 5 years later in 2001. On 12th of October 2002, it was officially opened by former Singapore president S.R. Nathan. Construction of the Centre is said to have cost S$600 million.

Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay Design

The Esplanade Theatres in Singapore have a unique design that often mesmerises tourists, despite being surrounded by skyscrapers and other attractions. The waterfront complex contains two dome-shaped structures that locals say looks like durian, a local tropical fruit. Others say it looks like the eyes of a fly.

What makes the twin structures resemble a durian are the thousands of triangular aluminium shades placed over the glass shells. This gives them a spike-like appearance, one that is strikingly similar to the tropical fruit. The two ‘durians’ are a 2,000-seat Theatre and a 1,600-seat Concert Hall.

Attractions at the Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay

The Concert Hall

The Concert Hall at the Esplanade is one of the main features at the Esplanade. As mentioned earlier, it has a capacity of 1600. This is the place where popular bands from Singapore and around the world perform. Classical concerts are also held here.

The interior décor is mainly wooden and gives the impression of the inside an old ship. The arrangement inside the Concert Hall is made in such a way that the audience enjoys its offerings. Seats have been placed in four levels so that everyone has a great view of the stage.

The Theatre

The Theatre is reminiscent of European opera houses. The U-shaped structure seats around 2000 people. There is no specific group that performs in the Theatre-it’s a mix of Asian and Western Arts.

Esplanade Waterfront

This is one of the top attractions at the Theatres on the Bay. Everyone who visits would love an amazing outdoor performance. These outdoor performances are free. Here, the stage is covered by what looks like sails.

You’ll enjoy the various performances and night breeze while also taking in the scenic views of the city and its architectural icons such as Marina Bay Sands and Singapore Flyer.

Rehearsal Studio

The Esplanade rehearsal has a capacity of 100. Dancers and performers usually do their rehearsals here before they get to the stage. It has barres for ballet-lovers and has long mirrors on the walls.

Shop and dine at the Esplanade

You can shop and dine at the Esplanade Mall before you go to the Theatre to watch your favourite band play or see a traditional dance at the waterfront stage. The mall stands next to the Concert Hall and the Theatre.

It contains most of the things you can think of buying, even musical instruments such as violins. The numerous cafés and restaurants ensure you fill your stomach before proceeding to watch the performances.

The community wall

This is a part of the Esplanade that most visitors don’t know exists. The Community Wall is found on the third floor of the mall. It is filled with a wide range of paintings from renowned artists (both local and international). If you are an art person, this is a place you’ll definitely want to set your eyes on.

Esplanade-Theatres on the Bay Singapore holds around 3.500 arts performances on a yearly basis. Genres include theatre, music, and dance. Most of these performances are free. It is also the venue for a wide array of programmes and a place where upcoming artists can showcase their talents. It’s the ideal destination for a person who wants to be informed, entertained, and inspired to become better through the arts.

In terms of arts, the Singapore Art Museum offers a distinctive taste of both traditional and contemporary arts. You may add this to your list of must-visits in Singapore.

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