The hottest ticket for performing arts in the Far East, the Singapore Arts Festival juxtaposes glittering names of Asian and western dance, theatre and music. More traditional artists prevail, but the experimental, innovative types are gaining more exposure each year.

The festival offers an international programme covering all possible areas of performing arts - many at the same time. Fusions are common, with Indian music embracing jazz, Asian dance curling up with contemporary and imaginative combinations of sound, light, music, text and movement.

The core programme alone features around 75 performances from many countries. Some are world premières; others are commissioned works or works conceived through international collaborations. Every year, there is a show-stopping Festival Spectacular that marks the grand opening of the festival. In 2008, the show is Water Fools by French troupe Ilotopie, an extravaganza of costumed characters and pyrotechnics at the Boat Quay in Singapore.

Source: ISIC