One of the most anticipated events ahead of the Singapore International Festival of Arts has a mind-expanding lineup for visitors to take part in. Part forum and part performance art, The O.P.E.N. is a way for Singaporeans to engage with one another on a number of important topics that ultimately seek to make new and meaningful connections across gaps usually caused by differences in culture, location, and upbringing.
There are many examples of performances and art exhibits hosting a forum or panel prior to the event to ensure visitors are able to understand the themes, techniques, and context for the works they are about to view. The O.P.E.N. is different in that it requires meaningful participation from audience members. Visitors stand to gain very little if they don’t give very much of themselves over to the participatory process. Engagement is key here, contributing to the experience as a whole to make it richer for everyone involved.
One of the events many are looking forward to is a picnic where anyone can show up. The idea is to bring enough food to share with passers-by and to sample food others bring. In this way, people can interact with each other and learn more about their experiences through food — a simple way to bring people together. As one organizer put it, you might never venture into a certain country in your life, but you might be a little more likely to eat a meal at a restaurant that features that country’s cuisine. Even that small experience of a meal would open the door to a cultural experience you could have with something and someplace you might not have otherwise interacted with. Likewise, a kitchen themed event invites participants to cook different examples of food important to their culture, childhood, or religion and share them with others.
Other events include a reading and interaction with a text that examines plurality in culture in Singapore. Another event will take a look at dementia and elder care as seen through the lens of a play. All of the events are designed to create a space free from judgment or ridicule where Singaporeans and other visitors can discuss hot button topics they might have trouble hashing out otherwise. Some organizers said that Singaporeans had trouble talking about such things, deciding to practice silence rather than risk offending other people.
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To read more about the various opportunities to take part in art ahead of the Singapore International Festival of Arts, go to http://www.straitstimes.com/lifestyle/arts/a-sneak-peak-at-the-open-segment-of-the-singapore-international-festival-of-arts.