Housed within the historic Old Parliament House, The Arts House boasts a rich history and stunning architecture. Dating back to 1827, this colonial-era building served as the country’s Parliament until 1999 and its majesty has been meticulously preserved. Today it serves as a vibrant cultural institution, featuring events like stunning Candlelight concerts.
This beautiful building sits in a prime location in the heart of the city center. It’s surrounded by landmarks, including the Asian Civilisations Museum, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, and the Fullerton Hotel. The nearest MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) station is Raffles Place, which is connected to multiple lines, making it super easy to get to.
1. An important piece of Singapore’s history
The Arts House sits in the beautifully preserved Old Parliament House, which was Singapore’s first-ever Parliament building. It’s impossible to overstate its historical and political significance. Constructed in 1827, its historic chambers and halls now serve as unique backdrops for cultural and artistic events. This grand building simply exudes historical and architectural importance.
2. One of Singapore’s literary hubs
The Arts House is renowned as a hub for literary arts in Singapore. This is mostly due to the fact that It hosts the annual Singapore Writers Festival and is subsequently a focal point for book launches, readings, and writing workshops. Its commitment to promoting literature has not only helped the literary scene in Singapore flourish but made it a gathering place for both aspiring and established writers
3. Always buzzing with culture
It’s not just about literature at The Arts House. It also offers a diverse range of cultural programs like art exhibitions, music performances, theatre productions, film screenings, and much more. There’s always something interesting happening within its historic walls.
Candlelight Concerts at The Arts House
Candlelight concerts take place in The Chamber at The Arts House, possibly the most beautiful room in the building. If you’re looking for a spectacular injection of culture then look no further because these concerts are incredibly enchanting and enriching. This gorgeous, colonial-era building combined with the soft, flickering light of hundreds of candles, creates a mesmerizing ambiance that is simply irresistible. There’s something for everyone, from tributes to Taylor Swift to Anime soundtracks and David Bowie. These concerts offer the chance to make memories that will last a lifetime.
What else can you do at The Arts House?
There are always plenty of things to do at The Arts House. This place is always alive with events and activities. There’s usually a packed schedule including performances of live music, theatre productions, dance performances, and much more. You can also check out one of their regular art exhibitions where artists from Singapore and further afield showcase their creativity. Of course, this place is known for its literary events too and besides the Singapore Writers Festival, there are plenty more workshops and festivals to attend. Relax with a bite to eat at one of the onsite cafes for the perfect afternoon.
Singapore is a city that seamlessly melds some of the highest skyscrapers in the world with elegant old buildings like The Arts House. Candlelight concerts utilize so many of these beautiful spaces because the venue is so important in creating an unforgettable ambiance. So, whether you enjoy a performance or head over the road to take in a concert at The Victoria Theatre, there is always something to see and do in the city’s most beautiful buildings.