Island of the arts

If you love entertainment, Singapore will not disappoint, writes Hanna Hussein

SINGAPORE has never failed to amaze me with its fast-paced entertainment scene. There’s always something new and more exciting each time I visit.

Most Malaysians crossing the Causeway for a weekend getaway will be spoilt for choice when to comes to shopping, dining and entertainment. Some cross the seas to catch the shows and concerts by international stars. It’s been said over and over again that if you are into concerts and shows, you must visit Singapore at least once.

Here are some of the places you should check out.

MASTERCARD THEATRES, MARINA BAY SANDS

The iconic Marina Bay Sands is a well-known landmark. Its architectural design is of a ship in the sky; this has transformed Singapore’s skyline and tourism landscape. Most tourists go there to see what is on the top spot of the 55-storey tower.

Now, let me suggest a detour to MasterCard Theatres. Located inside The Shoppes of Marina Bay Sands, the theatre that boasts two auditoriums — Sands Theatre and Grand Theatre.

Grand Theatre is specially designed to showcase an extensive range of internationally acclaimed performances — broadway musicals, cabaret as well as music bands. It can seat up to 2,155 guests on three levels.

Sands Theatre is smaller but has state-of-the-art technology to deliver the ultimate experience. It has a capacity of 1,679 seats over two levels and features a traditional proscenium-style theater that offers a stellar view.

Upcoming shows include My Fair Lady: The Tale Of Two Cultures (Feb 11-Mar 2), Cathy Rigby Is Peterpan (Mar 19-Apr 6) and Grease (Apr 25-May 11).

CLUB STREET, ANN SIANG HILL

Club Street in Ann Siang Hill, Chinatown is lined with shophouses, most of which are home to a number of posh bars and restaurants.

The name says it all. The street is as funky as its name, especially when night falls.

Some say Club Street got its name from leading Chinese clubs during the 1980s. It was once a place where wealthy Chinese businessmen would meet to chill out with friends. Today, it is a chic place where one can enjoy great food and drinks, although they may be a bit pricey.

There are restaurants and bars such as Bartini and Platters Bistro Wine Bar, among others.

My pick is The Screening Room where food is cleverly married to watching films. This unique eatery consists of two bars, a restaurant, a film theatre and a multi-function event studio.

I love the Mediterranean menu which includes French, Spanish, Lebanese and Syrian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a delicious dinner while watching a film.

TIMBRE @ THE ARTS HOUSE

Located in front of Singapore River, near the old Parliament House, The Timbre is a unique chill out eatery.

With its strategic location, The Timbre is the right place for those who love listening to live music bands while enjoying the night with friends over drinks and dinner.

While its ahh-so-delicious-food reigns as one of the best so far, another feature that impresses me is its noble idea of promoting local talents. Every evening (except Sunday), the house will take local acts to the stage and showcase their talents. The hand-picked musicians are given the opportunity to express their thoughts and feelings through music.

The Timbre has a few more branches, all with unique and personalised designs. It also has a music academy that trains local artistes and even children to play musical instruments.

I instantly fell in love with the laid back atmosphere.

TIONG BAHRU

Do not miss this hidden treasure. Though not as loud and chic as Club Street, Tiong Bahru has its own identity. There are many specialty stores such as out-of-the-world artistic coffee joints, indie bookstores and those specialising in local fashion. Those that get my attention are 40 Hands Coffee, Nana Bird, Books Actually and Open Door Policy.

 

MASTERCARD THEATRES,

MARINA BAY SANDS

CLUB STREET, ANN SIANG HILL

TIMBRE @ THE ARTS HOUSE

TIONG BAHRU

Island of the arts

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