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Things to do & Places to see in Singapore

Wayang – Chinese Opera

 

A Reflection of Chinese culture and philosophy

Most story plots in traditional Chinese opera performances are based on famous Chinese classics and myths. 

Reflecting Chinese culture and philosophy, almost all opera performances highlight virtues such as loyalty, love and patriotism. Other than a form of entertainment, Chinese opera also plays an active role in dispensing important messages, especially those concerning patriotic values. 

In Singapore, Chinese opera is practised freely especially during celebrations like Chinese New Year and Hungry Ghost Festival, when it’s performed on open fields in heartlands across the city. Traditional instruments such as the erhu, drums and cymbals are commonly used in Chinese opera, accompanied by colourful and outlandish costumes and rich makeup to create mesmerising yet culturally-steeped performances. 

Highlights

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Hungry Ghost Festival
Hungry Ghost Festival
Every year the Chinese in Singapore observe a large-scale tradition of paying respects to the dead. Enjoy the traditional rituals and customs, like the boisterous getai performances in the...
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Chinese Culture
Chinese Culture
Representing 74.2% of the population, Chinese in Singapore include close to 10 different...
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