More than a festive footnote on the Chinese New Year calendar, Huayi – Chinese Festival of Arts is where history and heritage take centre stage – this year, with a focus on the enduring legacy of dialects and dynasties. Running from February 27 to March 8 at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, the 10-day celebration of Chinese arts and culture features artists from Singapore and beyond, spotlighting legendary tales through different art forms. Feast your senses on everything from grand theatrical productions and musical performances to contemporary dance showcases and even interactive craft sessions.
Kicking off the festival is Deling and Cixi (February 27 to March 1), a captivating palace drama by acclaimed playwright He Jiping from China. Set against the majestic backdrop of the Qing Dynasty, it captures the unlikely friendship between a spirited, Western-educated aristocrat and the powerful Empress Dowager. There’s also an exclusive dialogue with He, which offers a rare glimpse into her writing process.
Elsewhere, Diary VII (February 27 and 28) sees Hong Kong choreographer Mui Cheuk-yin present a poetic solo inspired by stray cats, drawing parallels between feline instincts and her own philosophy through movement shaped by light, shadow, words and sound.
For families, A Little Goes a Long Way (March 6 to 8) breathes fresh life into folktales of perseverance and grit with live music, puppetry and dynamic physical theatre – rounding out a festival that bridges past and present in stirring style.
Beyond the ticketed highlights (from $35), families and friends can also enjoy a lively spread of free festive programmes, including lion dances, Chinese orchestra performances and more. Find out more here.
