Performing arts and culture of Singapore reflect the flavor of the region. Festivals and celebrations, expressing the diverse beliefs and backgrounds of the multicultural society, are held throughout the year. The art scene is also the blend of several influences, from Asian to European. This overwhelming diversity makes the cultural scene of Singapore very intriguing.

Music

Lovers of classical music can have gala time in Singapore Symphony Orchestra's weekly concerts at the Victoria Concert Hall, Empress Place and open-air concerts. The Orchestra which came into being in 1979, adopts middle path between Asian and Western music. For Oriental, visit the Singapore Chinese Orchestra's fortnightly performance at the Singapore Conference Hall.

For those who are fond of Opera, Singapore Lyric Opera offers western classics like Carmen. Chinese Opera Institute and Chinese Theatre Circle are the best for enjoying conventional Asian opera. Variety of opera performances are organised in Singapore. An annual opera festival is also held.

Theatre

Theatres play dramas, musicals, ballets and international productions which are presented on grand scale. Local groups are adept in blending Western style with Indian flavor. Victoria Theatre, Black Box, Jubilee Hall, The Substation and The Esplanade are some well-known theatres of Singapore.

Dance

ECNAD Project, founded in 1996, became the first full-time contemporary dance company in Singapore in 1998. ECNAD, known for site-specific projects and strong visuals, is proud of its creativity. The Singapore Dance Theatre which performs classical dance and ballet is based in Canning Park. Ballet Under the Star, one of the most favorite events of the Singaporeans, is held twice a year.

Movies

Singaporeans love to watch mainstream films, although the censorship standards are higher in comparison with the West. Annual Singapore International Film Festival is held in April. Documentaries and films from all around the world are shown in the film festival.

Cultural Events

Multi-ethnicity of Singapore has resulted in myriad of events. Thaipusam is celebrated by the Singaporean Hindus with zeal. Main festival of the Chinese is the Chinese New year. Particularly, the Chinatown wears gaiety on the occasion and the festival is celebrated in colorful Chinese way.

Hungry Ghosts is also one of the biggest Chinese festivals. Taoists believe that the gates of hell are unlocked during the seventh month of the lunar year and spirits visit the earth. The festival is celebrated to appease these spirits.