For Families Practices Others

Pantomime Bangsawan Sang Nila Utama – Voyage Through the Seas of the Archipelago

by Opera Academy

15 - 16 May • 06:30pm

A theatrical Pantomime Bangsawan retelling of Sang Nila Utama’s maritime voyage, featuring traditional and operatic storytelling, Nusantara music and contemporary ballet-infused movements that celebrates Singapore’s seafaring roots and multicultural heritage.

Pantomime-Bangsawan-Sang-Nila-Utama-Voyage-Through-the-Seas-of-the-Archipelago

This performance will be presented at HOMEGROUND @ ACM Green.

Friday (15 May): 6.30pm - 7pm
Saturday (16 May): 6.30pm - 7pm

Step into the world of ancient maritime Southeast Asia through a refreshing take on Bangsawan, or Malay Opera, the Pantomime Bangsawan Sang Nila Utama – Voyage Through the Seas of the Archipelago, a 30-minute operatic performance by Opera Academy. This vibrant retelling of Sang Nila Utama’s, and his ancestors’ journey explores the maritime encounters, cultural exchanges, and early settlement stories that shaped early Singapura. Integrating stylised choreography, live narration, traditional rhythms and contemporary ballet influences, the production immerses audiences in a rich theatrical experience that bridges myth and history.

Audiences will witness the drama of seafaring voyages, the symbolism of the sea in Malay culture, and the powerful role of migration in shaping identity. Ideal for families, heritage lovers and festival-goers, the performance brings a beloved legend to life while deepening appreciation for Singapore’s maritime heritage. Presented as part of SHF’s HOMEGROUND weekend programming at ACM Green, this production invites all to rediscover our origins, connections, and community through Bangsawan.

Opera Academy

Opera Academy Singapore is a leading institution dedicated to revitalising traditional operatic arts through performance, education, and community engagement. Known for its compelling reinterpretations of Bangsawan, Opera Academy nurtures young talent and preserves the Nusantara region’s rich storytelling heritage. Through performances, workshops, and research, the Academy creates meaningful connections between history, culture, and contemporary audiences.

Website: operaacademysg.com
Facebook: facebook.com/OperaAcademySG
Instagram: instagram.com/operaacademysg

Other fascinating stories & events…

Practices For Families Talks & Workshops

Cerita Laut: Tales & Crafts of the Sea

10 May • 10:30am

10 May • 02:30pm

Storytellers Hafiz Rashid and Syazwan Majid (Ambin Ubin) shares tales of fascinating marine creatures found in local waters. Participants then learn to craft marine animals using daun mengkuang in a hands-on workshop facilitated by Ambin Ubin facilitators.

Find out more Register

For Families Others

Cherita Singapura

2 May • 06:00pm

The story of how Singapore got its name is given a Kathakali twist in this presentation. Audiences will witness how the performers enact the wonders of nature and the perils at sea using movement, mudras (hand gestures) and abhinaya (facial expressions).

Find out more

Practices For Families Tours & Trails

COASTAL LIVES: Stories of the Sea – An Excursion to CMSG and CCM

2 May • 09:00am

COASTAL LIVES is a living heritage experience for families to discover Singapore’s maritime past. Starting at Children’s Museum Singapore with batik stamping, participants continue by bus with audio stories to Changi Chapel and Museum for a laksa heritage experience.