On Saturday, 24 August, Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (SFCCA) organised the “Singapore, Our Homeland” cultural event, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of 350 participants. The event was graced by Guest of Honour Ms. Tin Pei Ling, Member of Parliament for Macpherson, and was a vibrant celebration of Singapore’s rich multicultural heritage through traditional opera arts.
Opening Remarks by SFCCA President Mr Thomas Chua
SFCCA President Mr. Thomas Chua highlighted the event’s theme, “Our Home, Our Theatre,” emphasizing the importance of traditional arts as a reflection of history, ethnic identity, and symbols of Singapore’s harmonious multicultural coexistence. He noted the event’s aim to showcase the unique charm of Singapore’s multiculturalism through the lens of traditional opera.
Speech by MP Tin Pei Ling
Ms Tin Pei Ling commended Singapore’s welcoming attitude towards immigrants and praised the SFCCA’s role in helping them integrate into the local cultural environment. She stressed that such efforts foster mutual understanding, enriching Singapore’s multicultural society.
Traditional Malay Opera, ‘Bangsawan Burung Bulbul’ performed by Opera Academy Singapore
The Huangmei Opera excerpt, ‘The Legend of Madam White Snake’ performed by Bukit Panjang Government High School
The Tang Renaissance group performed the Yue Opera excerpt, ‘Five Daughters Celebrating a Grand Birthday’
A highlight of the event was the vibrant opera performances that showcased the rich cultural tapestry of Singapore’s diverse communities. Attendees were captivated by the Traditional Malay Opera, ‘Bangsawan Burung Bulbul’ (also known as ‘The Nightingale’), presented by the Opera Academy Singapore. Young talents from the Golden Microphone Language Centre delivered a remarkable Yangzhou Opera interpretation of the ‘The King of Birds and the Monkey General’ excerpt adapted from the Indian epic ‘Ramayana’, while students from Bukit Panjang Government High School mesmerized the audience with their rendition of the Huangmei Opera excerpt, The Legend of Madam White Snake ‘ demonstrating their dedication to this traditional art form. The Tang Renaissance group’s performance of the Yue Opera excerpt, ‘Five Daughters Celebrating a Grand Birthday,’ featured live percussion, adding an exciting dynamic to the event. Additionally, a Teochew Opera performance by the renowned Nam Hwa Opera and a Cantonese Opera presentation by Pat Wo Wui Kun further enriched the event with their profound cultural heritage.
From left to right: Dr. Chua Soo Pong, Dr. Wong Chee Meng and Dr. Lee Wei Heong sharing their insights
During the sharing session, Dr. Lee Wei Heong, Dr. Wong Chee Meng, and Dr. Chua Soo Pong discussed the historical roots and evolution of opera in Singapore, the contributions of key institutions, and the achievements of Singaporean opera in terms of localisation and cross-cultural communication.
“Our Homeland, Our Opera” – Successfully Concluded!
The event provided participants with a deeper understanding of Singapore’s rich cultural heritage, encouraging active engagement in fostering respect and understanding for different cultures, further promoting social harmony and unity.
Concurrently, the fourth “Heart to Singapore” Photography Workshop was held, attracting 90 participants. Renowned photographer Mr Bob Lee led the session, focusing on the significance of photography in capturing cultural diversity and the beauty of art.
Mr Bob Lee shared the joy of photography with the audience.
Participants had the opportunity to interact with the opera performers, capturing moments that added to the event’s cultural richness.
The photography group fully immersed in capturing moments with the opera performers.
The fourth “Heart to Singapore” Photography Workshop wrapped up on a high note!
“Singapore, Our Homeland” event provided an engaging platform for participants to appreciate Singapore’s diverse cultural heritage and promote mutual respect and understanding among different communities. The concurrent photography workshop further enhanced the cultural experience, highlighting the charm and harmony of Singapore’s multicultural society.
