The curtains are drawn as theatres and concert halls around Singapore including Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay close in a bid to curb the spread of COVID-19. Further complying with the advice given by the Singapore government, Esplanade has also called off all performances and activities scheduled to take place from March 25 to April 30. But nonetheless, the show must go on – line.
Not-for-profit art centre Esplanade is taking a digital route in allowing music, dance and theatre lovers to stay connected to the arts via videos, stories, podcasts and more. Cue Esplanade Offstage – a free online all-access backstage pass that lets viewers watch exclusive broadcasts of performances and gives an insider’s look to local, as well as regional, arts and culture. This also allows people to continuously support artists and cultural sector workers even in the comfort (and safety) of their homes.
“During such times, Esplanade is committed to providing as safe an environment as possible for audiences to be uplifted and inspired by the arts,” says a representative. “We will take the necessary precautions to responsibly provide Singaporeans with continued access to arts and cultural programmes.”
Home audiences can cosy up for Haruka Nakamura Piano Ensemble and Aspidistrafly's first avant-garde joint showcase, Mandopop duo StellaVee's catchy pop tunes, Metropolitan Festival Orchestra and DJ KoFlow's genre-defying performance, and more. For a list of programmes, visit esplanade.com/offstage.
