Singapore is very well known for the diversity of the people who call the island their home.  This is illustrated in the various traditions surrounding religious ceremonies, in the different neighborhoods of the city, in the food and in the arts.  Within each discipline the variety is great as well.  Festivals celebrating the culture are often times attended by and participated in, regardless of one’s own heritage.  All backgrounds are celebrated by everyone.  This is true in the world of dance as well.  Each festival will offer different styles, from modern to classical, from Dramatic performances to those of the traditional steps, from jazz to ballet.

During the Festival of the Arts, this variety brings companies from around the world, both professional companies and amateur.  These performances are not judged, there are no awards given, just the opportunity for the dancers to see the works of the other performers, as well as the opportunity for the audience and the general public to witness some of the most innovative new choreography and works that are being produced today.  The festival began with mainly local performers, but today has developed into an international venue.

From Cologne, the Tanz-forum Koln company has attended the festival for many years.  As well as the Canadian companies, Les Grands Ballet, and the Judith Marcuse Company.  Hong Kong’s Ballet Gala, under the direction of John Wy Ling has entranced audiences with their spectacular technical abilities.  Often times, the choreographers of the different companies, and the members themselves offer seminars and workshops, giving the public a chance to dance, as well as collaboration with the performers of the other companies.  They are all learning from and inspiring each other.  Which in the dance world is a very fine achievement, to lose the competitive nature and enjoy each other’s talents.  The festival runs in the month of September, and many travel…staying in the finest Singapore luxury hotels, and partake in one of the truly amazing dance experiences of the world.