DIRECTOR'S MESSAGE

As NUS Arts Festival (NAF) turns eight, we are proud to celebrate the opening of EduSports complex (now known as the Stephen Riady Centre) at University Town (UTown). A nexus rich with resources where the arts, learning and sports thrive alongside each other, EduSports symbolises the exciting possibilities around us, if only we ask the right questions and open ourselves to new experiences.

Themed “Open Questions,” the Fest brings over 30 shows, each conceived by professional artists and student talents who challenge and debate the status quo, unraveling today’s puzzles. Enjoy commissions and partnerships in many genres such as Mirror.Moon by NUS Chinese Dance with acclaimed guest choreographer Wang Cheng, alum-packed The Swing Thing directed by Jeremiah Choy, Face To Face III: Full Circle by NUS talents with Chong Tze Chien & T.H.E Dance Company, and NUS Baba House whodunit-mystery And Then There Was One featuring spell#7 with NUS students.

This year, NAF literally unfolds over more ground. Geographically, with shows at The Stephen Riady Centre@UTown, Yong Siew Toh Conservatory (YST) and University Cultural Centre (UCC), and artistically, with outstanding artists from China, Korea and other arts capitals. Explore modern living with Korea Now: Rest & Modern Feeling by Lee Jae Young and EDx2 Dance Company, and the second installment of Solo / Duet by T.H.E Dance Company. The choreographers will share their artistic visions not only through performances but through masterclasses too.

Our campus stars shine in a range of concerts from NUS Symphony Orchestra, NUS Wind Symphony, NUS Piano Ensemble and NUS Electronic Music Lab, and plays like Can’t Pay? Won’t Pay! adapted and translated by Li Xie from Nobel Prize winner Dario Fo’s original 1974 play. Looking at everything from geniuses to identity to the economy, this multigenre Fest is even more accessible with free admission films, live music and exhibitions.

Come with an open mind and leave engaged and reflective. Above all, realise the power of questions and your power to question.

Christine Khor (Ms)
Director
NUS Centre For the Arts