Celebrating its 20th edition, the M1 Singapore Fringe Festival (M1SFF), a cornerstone of Singapore’s cultural landscape since 2005, continues its mission of presenting thought-provoking local and international works. Scheduled from January 17 to 28, 2024, the festival promises an array of productions that delve into societal challenges and encourage new perspectives.
Highlights of the Festival
Exploring Family Dynamics and Duty
Raimi Safari’s “Oo-Woo,” directed by Mohd Fared Jainal, is set to be staged at Esplanade Theatre Studio. This original Singaporean production examines the complexities of family relationships and the care for an elderly matriarch, juxtaposed against the disappearance of a family pet Asian koel.
Addressing Grief and Mental Health
Matter.Less, a young Singaporean arts collective, debuts with “Here Where You Were” at NAFA Studio Theatre. This forum theatre piece, directed by Moli Mohter, sensitively explores themes of grief, depression, and suicide within Singapore’s Malay/Muslim community.
The Intricacies of Love and Betrayal
“Motherland” by Very Shy Gurl by fendy, to be presented at Practice Space, The Theatre Practice, delves into the emotions of love and betrayal experienced by two soldiers with opposing loyalties amidst a tumultuous backdrop.
Human Existence and Empathy
“Thom Pain (based on nothing)” by Edith Podesta, Yarra Ileto, and Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, offers a profound look at the human condition. Staged at NAFA Studio Theatre, this Pulitzer Prize-nominated play navigates through loneliness, vulnerability, and the quest for empathy.
Confronting Racial and Social Issues
J’Sun Howard’s “aMoratorium” at Esplanade Theatre Studio is a dance-theatre performance that confronts racial supremacy, police brutality, and homophobia. This U.S. production promotes understanding and compassion among diverse communities.
Humor and Absurdity
“Same Same” by Dame de Pic/Cie Karine Ponties & Temporary Collective, an award-winning performance from Belgium and the Czech Republic, uses humor and irony to explore the absurdities of the corporate world. Inspired by silent film icon Buster Keaton, it promises depth beneath its humor.
Accessibility and Inclusivity
In line with its commitment to inclusivity, M1SFF collaborates with Equal Dreams to ensure the festival is accessible to all, including those with disabilities. This includes providing Plain English text transcriptions, visual stories, captions, and speech-to-text interpretations.
Ticket Information
Tickets, priced at $35 and $28 for students, senior citizens, and others, are available online, ensuring that the festival remains accessible to a wide audience.
Conclusion
The M1 Singapore Fringe Festival 2024 stands as a beacon of artistic expression, addressing pressing social issues through a diverse lineup of powerful performances. Its commitment to challenging societal norms and fostering inclusive dialogues makes it a must-attend event in the cultural calendar of Singapore.
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