As an important cultural hub of Southeast Asia, Singapore features many different cultures and practices. Through a partnership with a Chinese cultural group, a festival aims to increase appreciation for Chinese culture and language.
One part of that effort was a fun skit organized by a group of people who promote Chinese culture in Singapore. One Russian-born, naturalized Singapore resident took part. The woman has always been interested in Chinese culture and language, attending university in Taiwan before returning to Singapore. The skit was the opening event for a festival meant to celebrate Chinese language and culture in Singapore. It is the second year for the celebrations, which are tailored around young people and their families to create interest from an early age in Chinese culture.
Some of the events that attendees can look forward to include special theatrical performances, school lessons, and speaking events that feature traditional Chinese art forms like crosstalk and clapper talk. Crosstalk is a comedic performance, and clapper talk sometimes includes bamboo instruments meant to act as percussive elements in a story. The fact that these performances are meant to be funny is a strategy in attempting to eliminate the stereotype of Chinese culture being very serious and only focused on studying and achievement. Seeing lighthearted performances will add a dimension to the understanding of Chinese culture.
Organizers hope that a global audience will enjoy the Chinese performances — not just those attendees with Chinese families and upbringings. To draw further interest and a wider audience for the performances and experiences, all events are free. Interested potential attendees simply have to respond to an email to obtain their complimentary tickets for the festival.
Art and fine art performances are integral parts in breaching gaps between cultures. Sometimes, it’s easiest to understand a culture different from your own simply by attending museum exhibits and special shows, gallery openings and programming, and other events hosted by different cultural collectives. This Chinese appreciation festival is no different, bringing unique aspects of Chinese culture to the forefront — performances that many people might have never experienced beforehand.
Bring a greater awareness of different cultures and art forms to your life by enrolling in an art class via SGArtClass.com. It doesn’t matter if you’ve never even held a paintbrush before. Expert teachers with experience in instructing students of all ages and abilities are on hand to lead you through projects and lessons on artistic techniques so that you can complete your own creative projects. Learn about color theory, painting and drawing techniques, and a wealth of other art knowledge through the class you enroll in — whether it’s oil painting or assemblage art or anything in between. Art classes are valuable for all ages. Enroll your child as a part of a fun summer learning experience, or your elderly parent as a way to pass the time and stay sharp.
To read more about the festival, go to https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/singapore-china-youths-arts-festival-aims-to-kindle-interest-on-chinese-culture-and.