Sassy Scoop: History via Music and Puppetry with the Singapore Chinese Orchestra

Dear mamas, Singapore is a melting pot of the rich heritage and culture of many races — not least its indigineous Malays, Chinese, Indians and Eurasians. Newcomers might think Singapore is about Marina Bay Sands, child-friendly cafes and a fantastic Zoo, but no need to feel guilty for only hitting the tourist track, mamas. You may now dust off your culture-vulture hats, inhale a whiff of thespian air and introduce the children to their own heaving arts scene. Oh sure, you have to be in the know for these things, but that’s where we come in!

Enter the character of ‘Ah De’ in Voyage to Nanyang 2: Mesmerising Street Opera, an enticing opportunity to introduce the kids to the culture and history of their environment (beyond Universal Studios). It is the Singapore Chinese Orchestra’s second performance in music and local heritage – particularly puppetry – in this upcoming concert in conjunction with Paper Monkey Theatre.

In Voyage to Nanyang I: Tunes of Old Streets, Ah De explored Singapore’s old streets with the children. This time, he explores the golden age of local street opera through the use of gorgeous Fujian hand puppets, Cantonese rod puppets and Indian string marionettes all set to a concert of Chinese orchestral music. The musicians themselves will be dressed as characters of the era like Samsui women, rickshaw pullers and coolies, so it is set to be a visual feast for the uninitiated eye as well as a great educational opportunity. For would-be Gepettos, there will also be a free puppet making workshop for ticket holders on 15 November at 1:30pm and 4pm. No lies mamas!

One more thing: the show is in Mandarin but never fear the language exposure, especially if your aim for the kids is bilingualism. Plus, dare we say that music (and puppetry) are universal? Note that the concert is most suitable for ages 7 and above, although we assure you that this concert is great for a family outing even for younger kiddos! Find out more at www.sco.com.sg.

Psst: If your kiddos go gaga for Voyage to Nanyang 2, you can purchase a DVD of last year’s performance at the concert to ensure a healthy dose of culture anytime, anywhere.

Voyage to Nanyang 2: Mesmerising Street Opera is on 14 November 2014 (Fri), 10.30am, 15 November 2014 (Sat), 2.30pm & 5pm at the SCO Concert Hall, 7 Shenton Way, in Tanjong Pagar. Ticket Prices are $25 (excludes the SISTIC fee) with 10% off for 3 tickets and above. Purchase them online at SISTIC (www.sistic.com.sg), or ring their Hotline at (+65) 6348 5555.

The Puppet Making Workshop (for ticket holders only) is on 15 November 2014 (Sat), 1.30pm & 4pm with free admission. Find out more at www.sco.com.sg.

Brought to you in partnership with Singapore Chinese Orchestra