Singapore Dance Theatre is the headquarters of Singapore’s first dance company. This contemporary dance studio was founded in 1988 by the duo Goh Soo Khim and the late Anthony Then. A group of seven ballet dances formed the company which with time grew to become Singapore largest professional dance company. Today, Singapore Dance Theatre or STD has 32 company dancers and apprentices.
Singapore Dance Theatre performs 6 seasons each year. The annual highlight is the outdoor dance event named, ‘Ballet under the Stars’ which is held at the Fort Canning Park. To date, this outdoor event alone has attracted more than 180,000 spectators from across the globe. In 2002, STD was bestowed with the rare honour of hosting the official opening of the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay. The Singapore Dance Theatre is conveniently located on Victoria Street. Dance lovers can stay at a nearby luxury hotel in Singapore and witness the many jaw dropping performances staged at STD. Sheraton Towers Singapore for instance, is a great accommodation option located within easy reach.
STD houses four large, contemporary studios with world class facilities. The company’s dance performances range from classical to contemporary ballet, choreographed by renowned dance artists such as Jean Paul Comelin, George Balanchine, Goh Choo San, Edward Liang, Natalie Weir, Edmund Stripe and Val Caniparoli. Each year STD features at least six new works. Under the new leadership of Janek Schergen, the company has made new strides in the local and international dance arena. During the period of last five years, STD added a total of 17 world premieres as well as 13 company premieres. Apart from the intriguing ballet dance performances, STD is also dedicated to nurturing young talent in the Asia – Pacific region through its educational programmes. Special classes, presentations and courses are conducted for adults and youngsters who are passionate about learning the skills, techniques and secrets behind the art of movement.
Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
