Mingli Seet

By now, many of you would have caught wind of the latest symphonic addition to our daily commutes: the delightful train chimes that made their debut just two months ago on February 14, 2024. The brainchild of these chimes is none other than the non-profit Singaporean Chinese music company, The Teng Company, conceptualised and researched by their co-founder and creative director Dr. Samuel Wong, and composed and arranged by Teng's composer-in-residence Chow Jun Yi. As May approaches, The Teng Company celebrates an impressive 20-year journey. Recognised as a prominent arts powerhouse in Singapore, they are all about using music for good. Their mission? Breaking barriers in Chinese music, igniting creativity, empowering the handicapped, and advocating for lifelong learning. Their spirit shines through collaborations, such as partnering with music therapists for the uplifting ‘Teng Gives Back’ initiative and spreading joy through the transformative magic of music.   Photograph: The TENG Company/FacebookThe TENG Company This collaboration with SMRT stands out as one of their most notable ventures yet. We sat down with co-founder Dr. Samuel Wong and his partner-in-crime, Uncle Song, to delve into the journey behind bringing this project to life.   RECOMMENDED: Mandala Club now has two bronze sculptures of Mr. Lee Kuan Yew by New York-based artist Daniel Arsham and Hamilton musical review: An iconic tale told through 3 hours of R&B melodies and power-packed rap How it all started

We believe that art – whether it's through paintings, sculptures, music, or dance – brings a much needed sense of wonder and excitement to our everyday lives. It allows us to escape from the mundane, explore new possibilities, and liberates us to express ourselves however we want to.  Lucky for us, Singapore may be small in size but it certainly doesn't fall short when it comes to its abundance of exciting activities and vibrant art spaces. From captivating art exhibitions and mesmerising performances to immersive cultural events, there is no shortage of exciting artistic endeavours to explore and enjoy. So, waste no more time searching and skip to the good part with our compiled list of the must-see art exhibitions this season. We've gone all out to cover a diverse range of art experiences – from historical, contemporary, mixed media, traditional mediums, and even virtual experiences. Now what’s left is to read on and get out there.  RECOMMENDED: The best contemporary art galleries and spaces in Singapore and the best museums in Singapore

Concerts bring a special energy – seeing your favourite artist up close, singing along with fellow fans, and just soaking in the vibes. If you've been to one, you know the deal – there's nothing like belting out your favourite tunes, throwing your hands in the air (wave 'em like you just don't care), or grooving in the crowd. This 2024, the music scene is seeing an exciting lineup of mainstream and alternative acts. Our wallets might protest, but our hearts are totally pumped! Keep scrolling to find out what's coming up, all sorted for you by month. RECOMMENDED: The best lifestyle cafés for music and art lovers and the best luxury hotels in Singapore

When it comes to Japanese bread, there’s something that strikes a distinct chord – it’s sweeter, softer, and leaves us craving more. It could be the attention to detail with intricately layered cream rolls or even unique fillings like red bean or matcha. As much as we enjoy picking up a fresh loaf of bread at Singapore’s best bakeries or devouring the best sandwiches to try, these seven Japanese bakeries have left their well-deserved mark on Singapore’s food scene. RECOMMENDED: The best Japanese restaurants in Singapore and The best cake shops in Singapore

Singapore's nightscape is filled with an endless array of bars, cafés and restaurants ready with headbangin' tunes and heart-rending sets. Whether it's soulful jazz or powerful rock hits, here are our favourite live venues to keep tabs on. Get ready to clear your evenings.  RECOMMENDED Upcoming DJ sets and club parties in Singapore and upcoming concerts in Singapore

Time flies, and it feels like just days ago that IU’s H.E.R. World Tour concert in Singapore was first announced. Now, we’re only two days away from her performance at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. By this point, you would already know the drill – we’re here to provide you with all you need to know before the concert so that you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the show.  RECOMMENDED: The best live music venues in Singapore and Mamamoo’s Hwasa will be performing in Singapore this June  When is IU performing in Singapore in 2024? IU will play two shows on April 20 and 21, 2024. Are there still tickets? Great news! More tickets will be released on April 18, 2024, from 12pm, via Ticketmaster. What time will the doors open? The doors will open at 3.30pm. However, we recommend arriving slightly earlier as queuing up for security checks may take some time. What time does IU start performing? There will be no opening act for IU’s show. The concert is set to start at 5pm. How long will the show last? The show will last around three hours, so you can expect it to end at around 8pm. What is the setlist for IU’s concert in Singapore? Taking reference from her April 7 show in Taipei, here is the predicted official setlist for her concert in Singapore:  Part 1: Hypnotic Holssi Jam Jam Ah puh BBIBBI Obliviate Part 2: Energetic Celebrity Blueming eight Hold My Hand I stan U VCR Meaning of You as bgm Part 3: Romantic Havana The One and Only (Accusefive cover, sung in Mandarin) strawberry mo

It's no surprise that Singapore is a shopping paradise with a plethora of malls, multi-concept stores and independent labels in every nook and cranny. But if you prefer rifling through pre-loved gems and scoring statement pieces at affordable prices, then thrift your weekend away at these secondhand shops. RECOMMENDED: Six cool indie stores in Singapore and 10 places to shop on a budget in Singapore  

Halfway across the globe, Singapore is probably largely known for landmarks like the Merlion and Marina Bay Sands. And according to printmaker and artist John Mathis, better known as Tatsu Maker, the probability of encountering a Singaporean in the quieter parts of America is probably close to zero. Reason being that “there's just not enough Singaporeans to go around,” he says jokingly. This is one of the reasons that fuel John’s artistic practice to focus his art on showcasing the true essence of Singapore – our food culture. His aim is to ensure that every visitor to our small, sunny island can take a slice of it back home and share their experience with others. “I'm a printmaker,” John says, “and through my art, I try to tell the stories of Singapore.”   Photograph: Daniel Iskandar/Time OutArtist John colouring a print John Mathis is an American printmaker that moved to Singapore 15 years ago. He specialises in linocut printing – an interesting printmaking technique first used in the mid-1800s. To create a print, a design is first carved into the surface of a block of linoleum, and ink is then applied to the raised areas of the block and transferred onto paper or another material by pressing it against the block.      Photograph: Tatsu Maker WorksCarving a plate with a host of knives of various sizes and shapes, under a magnifying glass The beginning of his artistic practice was a simple one – six years ago, on a seemingly ordinary day, he gathered a few knives, inks,

In addition to the fantastic art exhibitions in Singapore, theatre and dance performances offer an excellent alternative to unwind from the grind and broaden your horizons. In the months ahead, look forward to a packed calendar of award-winning Broadway musicals, timeless ballets, and laugh-out-loud physical comedy shows. These delve into diverse topics – the stresses that arise from Singapore’s education system, tragic romances, and our obsession with screens. Just sink into a plush seat and prepare to be captivated by these spectacular performances. RECOMMENDED: 10 brilliant music festivals in Asia you don’t want to miss and The best new movies in Singapore to catch

Are art exhibitions and galleries ever enough? The answer is no. From one art type to another, we’ve rounded the best art trails to peep the city’s street art and learn more about our island's heritage, ranging from 2D murals to 3D sculptures, as well as art installations. RECOMMENDED: Must-see art exhibitions in Singapore and the best museums in Singapore

Next in line to grace the stage at the National Stadium Singapore is none other than the award-winning American singer, Bruno Mars. It has been six long years since his last show in 2018, and the excitement among Hooligans (Mars' fandom name) who have secured tickets to his April 2024 shows is undoubtedly skyrocketing. To make your lives easier, we’re back again with an all-you-need-to-know concert guide that will cover everything to ensure you’re well-prepared before the big show – from the setlist, timings, merchandise booths, prohibited items at the venue, and more.  RECOMMENDED: American pop singer Lauv will perform at LIV Golf Singapore in May and Swee Lee Clarke Quay is a vibrant experience store with vinyl listening stations, bespoke services, café and bar When is Bruno Mars performing in Singapore in 2024? Bruno Mars will play three shows on April 3, 5, and 6, 2024. Are there still tickets? Yes! For the shows happening on April 3 and 5, there are still tickets available for purchase here at time of writing. You can also try here if tickets sell out. What time will the doors open? The doors will open at 6.30pm. However, we recommend arriving slightly earlier as queuing up for security checks may take some time. What time does Bruno Mars start? There will be no opening act for Mars’ show. The concert is set to start at 8pm. How long will the show last? The show will last around two hours, so you can expect it to end at around 10pm. What is the setlist for Bruno Mars' co

There's a time for trekking and conquering nature trails but there's also a time for sitting pretty and having a picnic – especially now that beaches are open once again. Forget fighting for a table in a hip cafe in the city too. When the weather's looking fine, it's time to pack some bites and look for a spot in one of the best parks in Singapore.  If you're not in the mood to put together a take-out feast, grab a gourmet picnic basket that comes pre-packed with all the tasty finger food you need. All you have to do is to place an order, swing by to collect and be on your way. We've rounded up some places that don't require you to travel to the middle of nowhere, have some shade, and most importantly, located near the toilets (but not too near). RECOMMENDED: The best places to fly a kite and best nature trails in Singapore

Frida Kahlo, the world-renowned Mexican artist and cultural icon, needs no introduction. Regarded as one of the most influential female artists of the 20th century, she is celebrated for her impactful self-portraits that delve into themes of identity and the human body, as well as her inherent resilience against the hardships she faced in life. Honouring the legend herself is ArtScience Museum’s upcoming exhibition, Frida Forever. The show will open on May 4, and run till September 1, 2024. This exhibition is part of the museum’s year-long celebration, ‘Year of Extraordinary Women’.  Now, here’s why this exhibition is an absolute must-see – the overarching showing consists of not just one, but three captivating segments: Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon, Bare: Frida's Inner World, as well as an immersive VR experience at the end to top it all off. The show will also feature works that have not been shown outside of the United States before. “Frida is one of the most well-known artists of the modern era, but beyond her exceptional body of work, the trials and tribulations of her life projected her into the position of a cultural and feminist icon. Within this season, we are taking an unusual approach to exploring Frida’s story, focusing on the intersection of art and medicine,” says Honor Harger, Vice-President of ArtScience Museum at Marina Bay Sands. Photograph: Marina Bay Sands'The Altar' at Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon Produced by Layers of Reality and Frida Kahlo Co

Year after year, the Singapore HeritageFest continues to show us that although tiny, Singapore is more than meets the eye. And this year’s 21st run is no different. Taking place from May 1 to 26, 2024, the festival will offer a ton of workshops, tours, trails, exhibitions, among other exciting programmes for all to get better-acquainted with the city we call home. This year’s theme will focus on ‘reliving the stories that connect us’ – you’ll be diving into untold stories of our city’s oldest buildings and landmarks. Embark on a walking tour hosted by leading design studio DP Architects where they’ll take you through the evolution of Singapore Downtown’s urban landscape and iconic landmarks such as St Andrew’s Cathedral, Fullerton Hotel, and Golden Mile Complex, to uncover Singapore’s city planning history. Or enter uncharted territories and take part in a guided walking tour through 37 Emerald Hill, an ‘abandoned’ building that was once the home to Singapore Chinese Girls’ School. For those that prefer to keep their steps to a minimum, hop on the magic school bus at the Hop-On, Hop-Off (HOHO) Bus Experience for a relaxed tour where you will be driven through cultural neighbourhoods such as Chinatown, Little India, and Kampong Gelam.  One of the main exhibitions at this year’s festival, Homeground: We Built This City, is also not to be missed. Visitors can learn about Singapore’s 75 national monuments, 7,000 conserved buildings, and several other sites and structures.  Ventur

Here’s some effortlessly enjoyable art that’s gentle on the senses. Scottish textural painter Ronnie Ford is returning to Singapore after five years to showcase his new body of work: Shades of Grey. The exhibition, titled Meadows to Mountains, will feature said body of work of iconic paintings of vast landscapes, seen through his eyes. What makes this showcase exceptional is Ford's debut of grayscale pieces, alongside his traditional colourful series. Photograph: Ode To ArtShades of Grey 10x15cm Ford's art is distinguished by his signature technique called texturescaping. His canvases are rich with thick impasto layers, achieving a vividly lifelike quality and imbuing a sense of depth and dimension into the flat surface. Inspired greatly by Chinese masters, Ford embraces the philosophy that while many can reproduce a landscape, only a genuine master can truly capture its essence. More info on the artist can be found here. Photograph: Ode To ArtTuscan Poppies 100x150cm

It’s time to zoom in and tickle your mind at Japanese artist Tatsuya Tanaka’s first ever exhibition in Singapore, small Muji exhibition – Enjoying Everyday Items, held at Muji’s flagship store in Plaza Singapura. For those that aren’t familiar with the artist, Tanaka-san is best known for his playful miniature works where he toys with everyday objects to create tiny elaborate everyday life scenes.  In the artist’s works, an everyday vegetable such as broccoli can be creatively reimagined to become a tree, and an orange becomes a miniature sun. Keep this concept in mind as you check out his works where he'll ingeniously use Muji items to breathe life into familiar scenes, providing a unique take on the brand's classics. It’s honestly hard not to let out a chuckle when encountering his works. There will be 19 miniature works displayed in total, where some of the creations will take inspiration from Singapore’s landmarks.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by MUJI Singapore (@mujisg)

In modern times, gift wrappers are used to present gifts and then conveniently disposed of right after serving their purpose. This is a stark contrast to what the Japanese practised from the 18th to the early 20th century, where beautifully embroidered luxurious Japanese silk gift covers called fukusa were used in the act of gifting. In fact, this practice of gift presentation was such an important aspect of gift giving that a gift will only be considered “successful” if the recipient was able to comprehend and decipher the meaning behind the fukusa design. This meant recognising the symbolic motifs and pictorial allusions that are intricately sewn into the silk. Photograph: Asian Civilisations Museum Encountering a fukusa in person these days is probably quite a rare occurrence due to their infrequent use. However, the upcoming show, Fukusa, Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection, by the Asian civilizations and Museum (ACM) and Peranakan Museum will present us a chance to come up close and personal with these cherished gems. The exhibition gathers over 80 fukusa, kimonos, and related textiles from renowned collector Chris Hall, who holds one of the most valuable collections of Asian textiles in the world.  The entire show is segmented into different categories to show what sort of fukusa are being used in different occasions and ceremonies. Through these incredible works of art, we’ll be able to uncover varied ways of life that completely differ from ours, a

If you’re looking to party but can’t stay up till the wee hours, then this one’s for you. Veteran club promoters Kampong Boogie and Kult Yard have joined forces to present ‘Kampong Kids’ – a daytime rave perfect for families and furry friends alike, happening on Labour Day, from 3pm to 10pm. And best of all, entry is absolutely free. The lineup boasts an impressive array of DJs, including the vinyl-exclusive duo HeavyItch, spinning nostalgic funk and soul, alongside the eclectic sounds of Filipino Singaporean collective Secret Pals, and local favourites like DJ KFC, Drem from Choice Cuts, and Prau, serving up a vibrant mix of house, hip-hop, and disco beats.  Nestled in a former police barracks in Chinatown, the venue will be transformed into a tropical rainforest wonderland, inviting kids to come dressed as their favourite Southeast Asian animals. There will be face painting, balloon sculptures, bubbles, and the nostalgic delights of an old-school ‘potong’ ice cream vendor. There will also be a taco stand and ‘Kult Tails’ mocktails for the little ones, while adults can indulge in craft beer and locally-inspired cocktails from the fully licensed bar.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kampong Boogie (@kampongboogie)

Get acquainted with French arts and culture right here in Asia at the vOilah! France Singapore Festival, returning from April 25 to May 26, 2024. Once again, the festival will bridge France and Singapore through a programme line-up of audiovisual arts, performing arts, visual arts, lifestyle, sports, science, gastronomy and music. This year’s edition undertakes the theme ‘Celebrating Passions’, and is supported by more than 50 local and international partners.  Enjoy a readapted 360-year-old play created by French playwright Molière titled Tartuffe: The Imposter, staged by Wild Rice. The festival will also celebrate the iconic tale The Little Prince by French author Antoine de Saint Exupéry, with the exhibition Saint Exupéry: A Legacy which retraces his journey, with original artefacts, screenings, readings, and conferences. Photograph: vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024Antoine de Saint Exupéry Other highlights include Piaf! The Show, a musical tribute to Edith Piaf, the French musical icon of the 1940s, well known for her trademark song La vie en Rose. The musical honours the legacy and musical contributions of the iconic French singer, drawing inspiration from the Academy Award-winning film La Vie En Rose and Marion Cotillard's captivating depiction of Edith. Photograph: Photograph: vOilah! France Singapore Festival 2024Piaf! The Show For the full list of programmes, visit their webpage here.

Discover the artistry of Leo Hee Tong, a renowned Singaporean painter, through NAFA’s upcoming exhibition Memories of Time: Leo Hee Tong 时光印迹： 梁其栋. Featuring around 50 paintings spanning his early and recent career, the showcase will take place at The Ngee Ann Kongsi Galleries from April 16 to 28, 2024.  Explore Leo's life, memories, and imagination through his artwork, offering a glimpse into his journey as an artist. This exhibition marks Leo's sixth solo show in the last decade and holds significance as his first at his alma mater. Leo's artistic roots trace back to his time at NAFA, where he studied under the mentorship of Cheong Soo Pieng, a pioneer artist. Later, Leo expanded his artistic horizons at Ashiya Art College in Japan, where he encountered diverse artistic influences.    

Explore the creations of Yanyun Chen, Hong Zhu An, and Prabhavathi Meppayil, produced during their artists’ residency as they venture beyond their typical practices to experiment with various print and paper mediums. At STPI’s Creative Workshop, these artists engaged with unfamiliar materials, techniques, and collaborators. The exhibition showcases the outcomes of their projects, highlighting the artistic breakthroughs that occur during the enriching period of an STPI residency.

From April 12 to May 31, 2024, A Trail to Chase will feature 29 multidisciplinary functional art – think everyday furnitures with a twist – created by renowned artists like Fernando Mastrangelo, Charlotte Kingsnorth, and Vincent Pocsik. Visitors are invited to go on an introspective journey to uncover narratives and contemplate the interconnectedness of our world through extraordinary creations. As you traverse the gallery space, explore the beauty of shifted perspectives, where nature's allure meets modern innovation, while tracing the invisible routes of art's journey, uncovering stories of cultural heritage and art.

If you’ve seen the widely-discussed artwork featuring a banana taped to a wall that sold for over a hundred thousand dollars, then you would know that there are no boundaries in modern art. This inevitably leads us to the pressing question: What exactly is art? With this question in mind, take a trip to the National Gallery’s latest show, Figuring A Scene. The exhibition is divided into six segments: ‘Shadow’, 'Fruit’, ‘Fire’, ‘Air’, ‘Wax’ and ‘City’. These different points of focus hope to further aid our understanding of the displayed works beyond its historical or societal contexts.  For example, in the segment ‘Fruit’, the show examines the diverse portrayals of the King of Fruits, Durian, throughout several mediums of art – from sculptures to paintings and photographs. With each medium offering its own unique point of view, visitors can reflect on its status during colonial times and uncover how this fruit has evolved into an iconic symbol of Singapore's national identity. For more information, visit their website here.Download the e-catalogue here.

Art – the big A word that is often associated with the white cube. In other words, art is commonly presented in white cube-like spaces, hung on walls for the world to see. However in recent times, technology has taken the front seat in our daily lives whether we like it or not, and with that, art now embraces various mediums, methods of execution, and styles of presentation. If you would like to find out more about what this means exactly, then pay a visit to National Arts Centre’s latest collaboration with Esplanade: Performing Arts x Tech Lab. Here, six teams of art practitioners and technologists shake hands to collaborate on projects that will explore the marrying of technology and performing arts such as theatre, dance, and music.   You’ll be able to experience firsthand the team’s prototypes at this exhibition, with guidance from industry experts. Uncover interesting inventions such as Verge 2.0 – one where dancers are given control to manipulate sounds, light and visuals themselves through technology, and The Sound of Stories, a project using artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the act of storytelling performances. All these innovations increase the accessibility of arts experiences, bringing audiences from all walks of life together. There’ll also be a lineup of guided tours, prototype demonstrations, playtests and sharing sessions where you can learn more from the project teams about the motivation behind their invention and the different technologies explored su

Great news – independent arts cluster 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace will not be facing closure just yet because its tenant lease has been extended till March 31, 2026.  Previously, the local arts enclave was set to shut its doors in March 2025 to accommodate the Urban Redevelopment Authority's (URA) plan to develop 6,000 housing units, as part of its masterplan to construct both public and private residences in the vicinity over the coming decade. 195 Pearl’s Hill Terrace holds a deep history embedded in Singapore's post-war narrative. The Upper Barracks once housed several units of the Singapore Police Force (SPF), such as the Radio Division, Anti-vice Unit, and the ‘A’ Division headquarters. However, in 2001, the SPF relocated to the new headquarters at the New Phoenix Park, leading to the vacating of the building. Nestled in Chinatown, this creative hub is unlike any other space in Singapore. It serves as the home base for a diverse array of 100 businesses, spanning from tattoo studios and ceramic workshops to cafés, thrift stores and independent jewellery stores. Among its cherished occupants are the beloved bar Kult Yard and Japanese-inspired café Paaru. There's a ton to check out at 195PH, and we're stoked to hear we'll get to hang out there a bit longer. Dive into our ultimate guide to Pearl's Hill Terrace to find out all the cool stuff you can do there.   DON'T GO YET! Tumbleweed Studios at Esplanade is the newly-launched music rehearsal facility for musicians to collabora

The Paper Bunny will reopen its newly-revamped flagship store in Takashimaya on May 3, 2024, with a fresh design concept by design atelier Parable Studio.    Photograph: The Paper BunnyArtist impression of revamped The Paper Bunny store at Takashimaya Founded in 2013 as a stationery store, The Paper Bunny has since expanded its offerings to include a diverse range of products such as bags, apparel, accessories, stationery, sustainability items, home goods, and wellness products.     Photograph: The Paper Bunny The revamped flagship store draws inspiration from natural textures, and warm tones, embodying the brand's vision of fluid and contrasting forms, integrating hand-formed sculpted fabric, steel weave art, and resin layering to create a distinctive and immersive experience for visitors.     Photograph: The Paper BunnyNew product 'The Arc' Concurrent with the store's reopening, The Paper Bunny is introducing new additions to its product lineup, including an addition to its popular bag series, The Arc, as well as the reintroduction of its Commuter Phone Straps, Puffer Card Pouches, Resort Shirts, and caps in fresh designs and colorways. The brand has also collaborated with a Singaporean ceramic and floral artist Jenevieve to produce a limited edition candle collection exclusively available at The Paper Bunny. Inspired by the idea of returning home, the ‘Hya Candle’ collection offers scents that bring a sense of comfort and relaxation.     Photograph: The Paper BunnyT

In the post-pandemic world, our work landscape has embraced a new norm where flexibility in our arrangements is widely accepted. And Singapore’s work landscape is no exception.  However, things are about to get even more official. On April 16, 2024, the Tripartite Workgroup (TWG) announced new Flexible Work Arrangements (FWAs) guidelines for all Singaporeans that will come into effect from December 1, 2024. The guidelines will require all employers to fairly process employee's formal FWA requests accordingly. Examples of such arrangements include having flexi-time and flexi-place options. The TWG was formed in September 2023 to develop guidelines for FWAs. The group comprises of representatives from the Government, National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), Singapore National Employers Federation (SNEF), Singapore Business Federation (SBF), Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (ASME), Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices (TAFEP), Institute for HR Professionals (IHRP), and the Public Service Division (PSD). The new guideline aims to cater to each and every unique needs of fellow employees. “While more employers have implemented FWAs, there may be specific needs of an individual employee which may not be covered by his or her employer’s FWA policy. As such, the Tripartite Guidelines on FWA Requests will guide employees to make requests for FWAs responsibly and help employers assess such requests properly,” says Mr Edwin Ng, co-chair of the Tripa

Singapore's musical landscape welcomes an exceptional newcomer, and it is none other than the newly-opened Tumbleweed Studios, a brand new music rehearsal facility for musicians to practise, collaborate, and simply make music. Opened by local music recording company Snakeweed Studios, this 2000-square-foot venue situated at the Esplanade Singapore is dedicated to raising the bar for rehearsal studios across the city-state. “It is our hope and belief that Tumbleweed Studios will be able to bring more Singaporeans to music, positively contribute to the growth and development of our output, and create a more robust and diverse infrastructure for the Singaporean music landscape for years to come,” says managing partner of Snakeweed Studios, Josh Wei.   Photograph: Tumbleweed StudiosLarge room at Tumbleweed Studios For over two decades, Snakeweed Studios has been at the forefront of shaping Singapore's music scene since its inception in 2000. Owned and operated by founder, Leonard Soosay and managing partner, Josh Wei, the studio has lent a hand to several local artists, from Electrico and Ronin, to Stray Kids, Kali Uchis, and even JJ Lin.   Photograph: Tumbleweed StudiosHallway at Tumbleweed Studios The studio boasts four acoustically treated rooms and takes pride in its top-of-the-line equipment from renowned music brands such as Pearl, Zildjian, Aguilar, Ampeg, Marshall, Fender, and Roland. These rooms vary in size to accommodate diverse needs. Prices span from $25 to $45.

Texas-born singer-songwriter Conan Gray is bringing his Found Heaven On Tour tour to Asia and Singapore is on the list. He is set to take the stage at the Singapore Indoor Stadium this September 1, 2024. Rising to fame through his YouTube channel where he showcased his musical talents and candid personality, Gray's authentic connection with his audience quickly garnered him a devoted following. His debut album Kid Krow earned him nominations for prestigious awards like the MTV Video Music Awards and the Billboard Music Awards. Known for hits like Heather, which boasts over a billion streams on Spotify, and Maniac, Gray's music resonates deeply with listeners, reflecting on themes of youth, identity, and relationships with a refreshing honesty.  Ticketing information has yet to be released, so stay tuned for more updates. MORE NEWS Hamilton musical review: An iconic tale told through 3 hours of R&B melodies and power-packed rapMulti-label store Actually introduces new brand offerings, includes famed Japanese brand NanamicaA captivating Northern Lights experience illuminates Gardens by the Bay this May

Multi-label store Actually has recently undergone a makeover, announcing the launch of several new international brands, alongside a refreshment of their space at 313 Somerset.   Photograph: Actually SGActually's new store Opened in 2005, Actually, known for their fun and playful spirit, has been committed to curating international labels that are not commonly found in Singapore. Their range of products extends from apparel and footwear to bags and miscellaneous accessories.     Photograph: Actually SGLeft to right: Mananash, F/CE, Outdoor Japan The store now features new brands including Japanese labels F/CE, Nanamica, and Outdoor Japan, renowned for their functional everyday wear designed exclusively for utility, integrating Japanese design elements and meticulous detailing. Alongside these Japanese brands, other additions include American brand Manastash, Dutch brand Susan Bijl, French sneaker brand Veja, and Danish bag brand Rains.   Actually is now open at #03-37/40, 313 Somerset, from 11am to 9.30pm daily.    MORE NEWS A captivating Northern Lights experience illuminates Gardens by the Bay this May Learn about the heritage of Capitol Singapore and Chijmes with special afternoon tea deals, guided tours, film screenings, and more Hamilton musical review: An iconic tale told through 3 hours of R&B melodies and power-packed rap

In Singapore's vibrant art scene, we've been treated to a series of exhibitions that allowed us to step into the worlds of artistic giants, from the wildly successful Van Gogh show to the upcoming Claude Monet showcase. Now, stepping into the limelight alongside these luminaries is none other than the influential Mexican painter, Frida Kahlo. Brace yourselves for Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon, an exhibition that will be brought to us by the ArtScience Museum this May, promising to transport us into her singular universe. Photographer: A EstradaFrida Kahlo and Dr. Juan Farill with her Self-Portrait © Gisele Freund, IMEC, fonds MCC Frida Kahlo is an influential Mexican artist known for her emotionally charged self-portraits, exploring themes of identity, pain, and feminism. Her unique style combines surrealism with traditional Mexican folk art. Kahlo's life was marked by physical and emotional struggles, which often informed her work. Till today, she remains a symbol of resilience and artistic expression worldwide. Photograph: Layers of RealityExhibition view of Immersive Biography at IDEAL Centre D’Arts Digitals, Barcelona, 2022. Frida Kahlo: The Life of an Icon prides itself on being an immersive one like no other, featuring three different segments with nine spaces filled with 360-degree projections, interactive installations, photographs, and films. You’ll be able to trace her artistic journey, starting from her early years as a young girl. The show will also touch o

Hamilton debuted on the Singaporean stage at the Sands Theatre just six days ago, narrating a legendary tale with a twist of hip hop, R&B, jazz, and enough power-packed rap to make even the American Founding Father himself drop the mic. But before it reached our shores, this world-famous Broadway production had already taken the world by storm, leaving its mark on stages from London's West End to the shores of Abu Dhabi.  Photograph: BASE Entertainment AsiaHamilton For those unfamiliar, Hamilton is a biographical journey inspired by the life of Alexander Hamilton, a key figure in American history. From his humble beginnings as an orphan to his influential role in shaping the nation, the musical delves into themes of ambition, interpersonal dynamics, and the complexities of political power. Seamlessly bridging historical events with contemporary relevance, Hamilton offers a timeless narrative that resonates with audiences of the 21st century.  The performance wasted no time and dove straight into Alexander Hamilton's background story, then proceeded to swiftly introduce each character in rhythm with each pulsating beat. The contemporary retelling of this iconic tale is unmistakable, evident not only in its inclusive casting, but also in its daring integration of hip hop, jazz, and R&B in replacement of regular dialogue.  Photograph: Daniel BoudBrent Hil as King George Infused with relatable humour, slick dance moves, and street slang, the show kept the audience hooked from

As part of this year’s Singapore HeritageFest 2024 (SHF 2024) that will take place from May 1 to 26, 2024, The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore, Capitol Singapore and Chijmes will present a lineup of programmes and deals for all to dive deeper into their pasts. The Capitol Kempinski Hotel Singapore's Lobby Lounge will be hosting Our Storied Past: Heritage Tour and Afternoon Tea, a five-course afternoon tea sesh serving various treats inspired by Singapore’s rich heritage. After the feast, guests are invited to join a free-of-charge guided tour through the grand halls and corridors of The Capitol Kempinski Singapore to further uncover the stories behind the historic cinematic gem, Capitol Theatre, and the iconic building, Chijmes. Limited slots are available for the walking tour, so be sure to secure your slots quickly. Photograph: Scott A. WoodwardStamford House Facade That’s not all – other dining deals await at 15 Stamford. Enjoy the ‘Heritage Dish’ promotion featuring signature local dishes such as laksa, and free truffle fries at The Bar at 15 Stamford when you purchase two glasses of their signature cocktail, Plantation 1840. This promotion is limited to one redemption per bill per table only. Photograph: The Capitol Kempinski HotelThe Capitol Theatre On May 10, guests will also be able to enjoy the screening of various films by local filmmaker Royston Tan that features the Capitol Theatre as its set. Some of the films he will be unveiling for the very first time in

‘The Canvas’, one of the spaces in Mandala Club, is now home to a set of new art sculptures commemorating the legacy of Singapore’s first Prime Minister, Mr. Lee Kuan Yew. This installation was created by New York-based contemporary artist Daniel Arsham.  Originally commissioned by Refinery and X3D Studio in honour of the centenary of Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s birth, the two sculptures, Eroded Bronze LKY Bust 1:1 and LKY Full Body 1:2, symbolise Mr. Lee Kuan Yew at significant moments in his life. Both are made using bronze, stainless steel, and patina. LKY Full Body 1:2 depicts Mr. Lee right before his declaration of Singapore as an independent nation, following the country’s separation from Malaysia. On the other hand, Eroded Bronze LKY Bust 1:1 stands as a relic to remind us of his wisdom, inspiring us to build a nation that is inclusive and progressive. Photograph: Henzy DavidEroded Bronze LKY Bust 1:1 “We are excited to introduce to The Canvas two sculptures of Mr. Lee Kuan Yew, a man who has played such a formative role in the development of Singapore into what it is today. As Singapore’s most dynamic private membership community, Mandala Club is a home for the celebration of art in every form, and we are thrilled to expand our collections in the Club with a tribute to a legend whose contributions to the country need no introduction,” says Ben Jones, Co-Founder and CEO of Mandala Club. All guests of Mandala Club will be able to access the installation, as well as members of t

It’s time for Singapore’s much anticipated annual after-dark affair – yes we’re talking about i Light Singapore 2024 (iLSG 2024), returning for its 10th edition from May 31 to June 23, 2024. Organised by Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), this year’s festival will light up more than just Marina Bay and its neighbouring precincts – it will also be activated in Tanjong Pagar for the very first time.  Undertaking the theme Cyclical Nature and inspired by the colour green, you would already be able to guess that this year’s edition will centre around sustainability. Visitors can anticipate a lineup of 17 interactive artworks that will explore the restoration, repurposing and re-designing of potential of everyday objects, by 25 different local and international artists. Photograph: i Light Singapore 2024Spin Me a Yarn by Studio Vertigo Some of the highlights include Spin Me a Yarn – an installation that will be parked at the main festival grounds at Marina Bay Sands. Created by United Kingdom-based Studio Vertigo, the work will feature huge yarn balls intertwined with its surroundings, bringing to light how the usage of yarn in the fashion industry has significantly contributed to global pollution. Photograph: i Light Singapore 2024Liminal_Minimal by Benjamin Lim and Yeo Soon Yii Just a walk away, at the Red Dot Design Museum, you’ll be able to find an installation titled Liminal;Minimal, materialised by students Benjamin Lim and Yeo Soon Yii over at Singapore University of

NCT Dream is set to perform in Singapore for two nights at the Singapore Indoor Stadium on June 29 and 30, 2024. This is part of their 2024 NCT Dream World Tour, marking almost one year since their last show in May, 2023. Other cities they will be pit-stopping at include Seoul, Manila, Osaka, Tokyo, Jakarta, Bangkok and Hong Kong. Formed in 2016, the group of seven is a sub-unit of Sm Entertainment's NCT and is known for their age-based graduation system. The group has shown remarkable versatility and growth through their music, with several chart-topping hits like Hello Future, We Young, Boom, and Chewing Gum – a track that reached #2 on the Billboard world digital songs sales chart. NCT Dream has also received several accolades, including the Golden Disc Award for New Artist of the Year.  Tickets are priced at $188 to $348. NCTzen Dream members are entitled to first dibs from May 2, 12pm to 11.59pm, with a limit of two tickets per pax. More information can be found here. Live Nation presale starts from May 3, 12pm to 11.59pm, and general sale starts from May 4, 12pm, via Ticketmaster.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by NCT DREAM OFFICIAL (@nct_dream) MORE NEWS Café Kitsuné Singapore launches seasonal matcha items, and merch featuring new Barista Fox mascot Singapore’s Changi Airport ranks as the fifth most luxurious airport in the world Famous American fast food chain Chik-fil-A is likely to open in Singapore