Enjoy The Best Of Chinese Theatre, Music, and Dance at Huayi 2024 – Free Performances Included
The Chinese Festival of Arts is back for its 22nd edition.
The wait is over, and the excitement is building up as Huayi — Chinese Festival of Arts returns with a bang from February 16 to 25, 2024, at Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay. Proudly presented by Esplanade, this cultural extravaganza promises an extraordinary blend of theatre, dance, and music performances by outstanding Chinese artists from Singapore, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and beyond.
Huayi 2024 has something for everyone — whether it's through ticketed performances or captivating free shows — ensuring a delightful and inclusive experience for individuals of all ages.
• Awe-Inspiring theatre
Be prepared for a mesmerising theatre experience with outstanding performances. Huayi 2024 is set to bring exceptional stage productions that captivate hearts and minds.
Everything For You
Among the stellar lineup, don't miss Everything For You by Nine Years Theatre. A highly-anticipated sequel to Between You and Me (remember Huayi 2022?), the poignant play vividly portrays the anxieties of everyday Singaporeans. Plus, with familiar faces like Sharon Au and Rayson Tan gracing the stage, this heartfelt play promises to strike a chord with audiences.
When: Feb 16-17 (Fri and Sat), 8pm
Where: Esplanade Theatre
The Sassy Princess
Now, prepare to be whisked away into the enthralling tales of Woman Warrior: Mu Gui Ying and The Sassy Princess.
Headlined by the renowned Hong Kong stars Liza Wang and Law Ka-ying, these classic masterpieces bring to life the timeless allure of Cantonese opera.
In The Sassy Princess, experience the delightful love story between the spirited Princess Feng Xia and the heroic war commander Fei Xiong.
When: Feb 24 (Sat), 7pm
Where: Esplanade Theatre
Meanwhile, Woman Warrior: Mu Gui Ying unfolds the saga of the Northern Song dynasty heroine, Mu Gui Ying, entangled in a bitter clash with her warrior husband, Yang Zongbao.
When: Feb 25 (Sun), 7pm
Where: Esplanade Theatre
• An aural feast
Immerse yourself in the enchanting tunes presented by outstanding Chinese musicians. Whether you're a dedicated fan or a casual listener, the festival offers an array of performances that cater to diverse musical tastes.
A fan of Mandopop? You’re in for a treat. It’s been five years since Taiwanese singer-songwriter waa wei last performed at the Esplanade . Immerse yourself in the catchy tunes as she weaves a bubble of love through her music.
When: Feb 18 (Sun), 7.30pm
Where: Esplanade Concert Hall
Gareth.T
Rising R&B star Gareth.T, known for selling out major arenas in Hong Kong, is set to make his highly anticipated debut in Singapore. Be captivated by chart-topping hits like Boyfriend Material and Hyperromantic in this iconic performance.
When: Feb 23 (Fri), 8pm
Where: Esplanade Annexe Studio
A_Root
Join Taiwanese fusion band A_Root for a breath of fresh air with their signature fusion of jazz, funk, and traditional opera songs. For their free performance (yes, it’s complimentary!) at Huayi, they will be joined by homegrown singer Ruth Kueo. Run, don’t walk.
When: Feb 17 (Sat), 7.30pm & 9pm
Where: DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade
Miss Lou
You’ll want to jio your friends for this free concert too. Let Singapore's vintage songbird, Miss Lou, take you on a trip down memory lane with her Nanyang jazz performance. Inspired by the sounds of 1930s Shanghai, her swing jazz renditions and Mandarin jazz originals offer a delightful journey through Southeast Asia's rich musical heritage.
When: Feb 25 (Sun), 7pm & 8.30pm
Where: DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade
• Dazzling dance performances
Let the language of dance speak to your soul. With a curated selection of dance performances, Huayi 2024 aims to showcase the cultural richness and diversity of Chinese dance forms. Here are our top free picks featuring local talents:
Stamford Dragon Lion Arts and Cultural Troupe
What’s the Year of the Dragon without a lively dragon dance? Have a roaring good time watching talented young performers of the Stamford Dragon Lion Arts and Cultural Troupe bring the mythical creature to life through intricately choreographed moves.
When: Feb 17 (Sat), 7pm & 8.15pm
Where: Esplanade Courtyard
Yi Wei Athletic Association
Of course, the festive lion dance performance on high poles — a perennial favourite — by the award-winning Yi Wei Athletic Association is certainly not to be missed too.
When: Feb 16 (Fri), 7.15pm
Where: DBS Foundation Outdoor Theatre at Esplanade
Season of Blossoms
Get ready to be impressed by the future stars of dance as the young performers from Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, School of Young Talents – Junior Dance (NAFA SYT Junior Dance), take centre stage at Huayi 2024 with their mesmerising performance, Season of Blossoms. This delightful journey through classical Chinese dance promises to be a captivating showcase of talent and dedication.
For more info about Huayi 2024, head over to Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay’s website. Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay is at 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981.