Adventurous
Singapore
National
Theatre
This view of the nearly completed Theatre building shows the stage. house, main entrance and two flan- king two-storey blocks.
design for
Architect: Alfred H.K. Wong B. Arch. (Melb)
S.I.A., A.R.J.B.A., A.R.A.LA,
Consulting Strut. & Civil Engineers:— D.K. Gudgeon. Quantity Surveyors;— Langdon & Every (Far East)
Bolt. Beranek & Newman Inc.
David H. Youl & Associates.
Acoustic Consultant:
Mechanical Ventilation:
THE Singapore National Theatre. which is now nearing comple- tion, is undoubtedly one of the most adventurous and interesting exam- ples of contemporary architecture in Singapore. Situated in the King George V Park. it provides an ideal central setting for every form of cul- tural activity drama. music and dance in a building which caters equally for the smail and mass audience.
The idea of building a National Theatre in Singapore was first moot- ed in November 1959 to commemo- rate the attainment of internal self-
government. The theatre would be “a symbol of the loyalty and unity of the people of Singapore irrespec- tive of their class. race, creed or ideology". It would be a genuine people's theatre in which the rich and varied cultural life of the people could find expression and an anvil on which a truly national indigenous culture could be forged.
Because the National Theatre was intended as a symbol of unity and joint endeavour, it was decided that. as far as possible. the necessary funds for the project should be raised not simply by direct Govern.
NEGARA
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