Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Singapore

Affectionately known among locals as the "durian", Esplanade is one of the busiest arts centres in the world with about 3,000 performances presented yearly. Spot our prickly cladding in the middle of the central arts and cultural district, and take in the view from the Marina bay waterfront where our Outdoor Theatre is situated. Coming to Esplanade means that you're in for a complete lifestyle experience, from enjoying a night out at a show, to shopping and dining. And whether you're a first-timer, an ardent patron or fellow arts lover, you're most welcome here and we'll do our best to give you a great experience with the arts.

Photo by Nick Fewings on Unsplash

The Esplanade is a performing arts centre situated near the Marina Bay which focuses on international artists and has hosted over 37,000 shows. The Esplanade has had over 26 million guests for over 15 years and counting. It is a 60,000 square meter expanse dedicated just to theatre and arts. Situated right at the mouth of the Singapore River, it got its name from the Esplanade Park, in which Theatres by the bay is located. This performing arts centre has a concert hall with a seating capacity of about 1,600 and a theatre capacity of 2000 audience members for the performing arts. The Esplanade stages new shows every few months and believes in providing opportunities to the emerging artists and practitioners. The in-house programming team presents over 14 festivals and 20 ongoing series throughout the year.

Its primary mandate is to create a platform for professional live theatre that is affordable and accessible by the general masses, contributing to the regional economy by hiring performers and technical staff. Visitors have been inspired by the creativity oozing out of this place. The shows hosted here spread across cultures and genres, bridging cultural differences and stereotypes. There are also stores for shopping where you can shop for items as diverse as a customised cosmetic product or a musical instrument, making the Esplanade an option for the shopaholics too.

Photo by Guo Xin Goh on Unsplash

Pop by Esplanade at any time and you’ll find it hard not to be infected by its palpable creative vibe, whether it’s the ever-changing, larger than life visual arts display near the main entrance or the world-class performances staged here.

The shows featured cuts across cultures and genres. You can catch a concert by Western greats such as The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra or a Chinese play inspired by the late doyen of Singapore Chinese theatre Kuo Pao Kun.

Fondly nicknamed "the Durian” by Singaporeans for its resemblance to the popular fruit, Esplanade holds a 1,600-seat Concert Hall, a 2,000-seat Theatre and several intimate performance venues. Its performance spaces have hosted a range of high-profile events, such as the return of the quintessential musical Les Misérables.

Free programmes, from music and dance to theatre, also regularly take place at various locations in Esplanade.

Architecture of Esplanade Theatres On The Bay 

The Esplanade has aesthetics that resemble a durian and is fondly nicknamed so. The architecture of this is a marvel, designed as two glass domes fixed with over 7000 triangular aluminium sunshades, with glass elements that strategically balance solar shading. Interestingly, the structure was never supposed to look like a Durian, but the final construction turned out to be so. The Esplanade also has a meeting venue and other art and lifestyle related activities. The layout and architectural designs here are a wonder in itself.

The prominent highlights of the Esplanade are the Concert hall and Theatre, connected to the main concourse through a foyer. The concert hall is for concerts, recitals and other performances, and can comfortably accommodate over 1600 people. It has an orchestral platform that can stage 120 musicians over four levels. The theatre is an adaptation of a horseshoe from an Opera house of traditional Europe. The recital studio is a venue for intimate and small-scale musical performances, presentations and meetings. This fan-shaped studio can accommodate up to 220 members.

Esplanade Theatres By The Bay Shows 

Shows in Esplanade are categorized into Music, Dance, Film, Theatre, Visual Arts, Senior, Youth, Family and Children. It also stages free shows, some of which are 'Emotional Things', 'Green is gold too', 'Blank' and 'Letters to Theo'. Some of the upcoming family shows are 'Music to my ears', 'Bunny finds the right stuff', 'Suraya Hassan', 'He is the man' and 'My unique mom'. Much awaited theatre plays are 'Leda and Rage', 'Enemy of the people' and 'Trick or threat'. Theatres on the bay also have public art installations at various spaces. The ones that catch quick attention are the 'Happy family of five', 'Makan Angin' and 'Seeds'.

What are the facilities provided

• Tour guide

• Free WiFi

• ATMs

• Lost & found facility

• First aid

• Nursing room

• Washrooms

• Stroller parking

• Baggage carts for bulky items

• Self-service lockers

Places to Visit Near Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Singapore

1. Asian Civilization Museum: 

Asian Civilization Museum allows you to explore the Asian and Singapore heritage. As soon as you step in, you will find a stunning amalgamation of customs from China, India, and South-east Asian countries. This museum presents a unique neoclassical style architecture prevailing in the colonial era. Except for Fridays, the museum operates from morning 10:00 am to 07:00 pm. On Fridays, the museum remains functional from 10:00 am to 09:00 pm.

2. Peranakan Museum: 

This building is a massive representation of hybrid communities from South Asian countries. You can find a blend of 3 significant cultures here – Indian, Malay, and Chinese. In case you want to get into the historical depth of this museum, go ahead with a guided tour. The tour is currently available in French, Japanese, English and Mandarin languages. It follows the same timings as that of the Asian Civilization Museum.

3. Mint Museum of Toys: 

Step in at the Mint Museum of Toys, and you are surely going to get nostalgic! Your kid will surely enjoy exploring this place as there are ample toys, comics, and collectibles here. Homing to more than 50,000 toys dating back to 120 years, Mint Museum of Toys accounts amongst quirky historical places to visit in Singapore.

4. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum: 

Situated in Chinatown, Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum dates back to 10 years. Interior of this temple is highly inspired by the Chinese Tang dynasty. You can seek blessings from the holy tooth of Buddha, which is considered to be highly auspicious here. Buddha Tooth Relic Temple & Museum operates from 09:00 am in the morning to 06:00 pm in the evening.

5. Trick World: 

There are many Trick Eye exhibits here to indulge you in the highly mysterious world of real magic. As you keep on exploring it further, you will experience that the displays are more artistic rather than being illusionary. You can plan your visit to the Trick World Singapore anytime between 10:00 am to 09:00 pm on all 365 days of the year. 

Best Restaurants to eat in and near Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Singapore

Alt Pizza – 

If you love your pizzas straight out of the oven then this is the place to be. A contemporary pizza place with not so exorbitant prices. The Pizza station also gives you the liberty to create your own pizza with the number of combinations exceeding your expectations.

Forlino – 

The Italian fine dining destination with elegant interiors and stunning views of the Marina Bay is your journey to the most genuine Italian dishes which are prepared and curated by award-winning chefs. The vast menu put together by the restaurant covers everything that you have ever asked for. 

The Lighthouse Restaurant and Rooftop bar – 

Get the grand views of Singapore at this restaurant serving authentic Italian cuisine with specialties. Get mesmerized with the breath-taking views of the skyline of Singapore and the Marina Bay waterfront. 

Saint Pierre – 

One of the most intimate dining options in Singapore, the subtle Saint Pierre has a lot of French-inspired dishes along with Modern European and vegetarian-friendly options. The restaurant is also a kid-friendly zone as well as suitable for those who want to engage in personal conversations and romantic nights.

The 100th Starbucks Store Fullerton WaterBoat House – 

Located close to the Fullerton Hotel and the Singapore River, Starbucks coffee shop is one of the most favourite hotspots to visit. A great location for a quiet coffee and conversations, visit this star bucks for drooling snacks and rejuvenating coffee. 

Shoukouwa – 

An intimate fine dining restaurant located very close to Merlion Park, one can explore a great variety of seafood which it is famous for. The specialties here are the classic Japanese Sushi which comes prepared fresh and yummy. To heighten your gastronomic experience, visit this elegantly decorated restaurant which is a must-visit if you are a sea-food aficionado.

Best Hotels to stay near Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, Singapore

Ritz Carlton, Millennia – 

It is one of the best options for visitors who love a lavish sophisticated stay. Apart from the Merlion Park, the hotel is close to several other wonderful sightseeing options. The decor of the rooms spells luxury with ultra-stylish interiors and amenities that will make you comfortable. 

Fullerton Hotel Singapore – 

The neo grand classical landmark of Singapore, the hotel offers diverse accommodation options, Rolls Royce Privilege, a lifestyle package and the assurance of an opulence stay. There are a lot of local attractions close by and its tour will be arranged by the efficient staff in the Hotel. 

Marina Bay Sands – 

One of the most popular and iconic hotels of Singapore, the sprawling hotel features 2561 rooms with a host of entertainment options like gambling, sampan rides and ice-skating. The prime attraction of this location is its rooftop infinity pool which is considered as the world’s largest infinity pool.

Pan Pacific -

Located in the Central district of Singapore, explore this towering luxury with world class amenities and signature dishes served exclusively at the comforts of the hotel. This 5 star property offers dynamic views of Singapore and is located close to the best sites in Singapore especially the Marina Bay.

The Westin – 

Located in the vicinity of Marina Bay, plan your stay at the Westin to experience bliss and peace. Great location with great food at the in-house restaurant is some of the added attractions of this wonderful hotel.

Fairmont – 

Located in the heart of Singapore, this upscale accommodation has 769 ultra-luxurious rooms and suites featuring comfortable style and international designs adorning the room. The spa at the Hotel has several treatment options available and also is Asia's largest Spa.

Tips

• For walk-in visitors, only the Esplanade Walk guided tour is available on a first-come-first-served basis. Be sure to reach early and head towards the Information Counter located at Mezzanine Level to inquire for details and availability.

• Esplanade Walk tour sessions are held at 9.00 am, 12.30 pm and 2.00 pm respectively on weekdays. On weekends and public holidays, tours are only available at 9.00 am.

• Group bookings of 20 pax and above for Esplanade Walk should be made 14 days in advance.

• All bookings can be done via email or over the phone.

• Do call ahead as tours do not take place if there are shows or rehearsals held at Esplanade Theatres.

• The extensive Esplanade Tour is only available for group bookings (minimum 12 pax) only. Bookings should be done 14 days in advance.

• Esplanade Tour is only available on a weekly basis on Monday, scheduled between 9.30am and 4.30pm.

• Light refreshments will be provided at the end of the Esplanade Tour.

• Do not hesitate to ask questions throughout your tour as the friendly guide will be more than happy to answer them!

• Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking around the vast area of Esplanade Theatres.

• Take note of free concerts to attend throughout your stay.

• In the evening, you can also catch live band performances around the area.

• Bring along your student ID or a valid ID for senior citizens to enjoy discounted prices for the tours.