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Singapore is celebrating its unique culture - and its Chinese influence. A cultural centre is hosting an extravaganza to celebrate the city-state's distinctive traditions. CGTN's Miro Lu has a sneak peek of the festival.
Scintillating Performances, spectacular exhibitions, and a celebration of Singapore's ever-changing and unique Chinese culture. The Cultural Extravaganza is back for its third edition. Organised by the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, it is a vibrant showcase of arts and traditions with a Singapore twist.
LOW SZE WEE CEO, SINGAPORE CHINESE CULTURAL CENTRE "We live in a multicultural, multi-ethnic society. So, therefore, the way Chinese culture has developed here in Singapore is also very distinctive. Through many years we have had, the Chinese have had interactions with the Malays, the Indians and other ethnic groups (insert cutaways) this has produced a very remarkable, interesting fusion of influences and cultures."
The festival also serves as a platform for local artists and cultural groups to present their newest work.
MIRO LU SINGAPORE "This year's line-up is an eclectic mix of workshops, films and performances. They highlight the evolution of Singapore's Chinese culture through art, music, street circus, and food. The main idea is to show traditions in a contemporary way and make them relatable to the younger generation."
'Memoirs of Nanyang' is a cross-cultural musical performance - which combines Nanyin, a traditional Chinese music originating in the southern Chinese province of Fujian, with festive Malay music, and modern pop songs. The story centers around a Chinese immigrant who grapples with a constant longing for homeland. A true representation of Singapore society, the production characterises the artistic qualities of both new and classical arts.
LYN LEE PRINCIPAL ARTIST, SIONG LENG MUSICAL ASSOCIATION "Originated from China, Nanyin when performed in Singapore, audiences are not able to form a connection to the music and hence we need to incorporate a lot of local elements. The cultural extravaganza is an amazing platform for youth and in fact people of all Asia countries to understand more about Chinese traditions."
The three-week extravaganza will reach its crescendo with the Sing. Lang concert. The free event features local musical stars who have made waves overseas, as well as the next generation of artists in the Chinese music scene.
MIRO LU SINGAPORE "So, if you are looking to taste the local flavour of Chinese traditions in this part of the world, it might be worth your while to swing by the Cultural Extravaganza. Miro Lu, CGTN, Singapore."