Housed within the historic Old Parliament House, The Arts House at the Old Parliament boasts a rich history and stunning architecture. Dating back to 1827, this colonial-era building served as Singapore’s Parliament until 1999, and its historical grandeur has been carefully maintained. Today, it serves as a vibrant cultural institution, offering a diverse range of programs such as art exhibitions, music performances, theatre productions, film screenings, and much more.
Why is The Arts House so historic?
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. Built in 1827, its historic chambers and halls now serve as unique backdrops for cultural and artistic events, including creative spaces like The Play Den.
What can you do at The Arts House?
There are always plenty of things to do at The Arts House. This cultural hub is constantly alive with events and activities, offering a packed schedule that includes live music performances, theatre productions, dance showcases, and more. You can also explore one of its regular art exhibitions, where artists from Singapore and beyond showcase their creativity.
Of course, The Arts House is particularly known for its literary events. In addition to hosting the Singapore Writers Festival, it offers numerous workshops, talks, and other literary festivals throughout the year.
Always buzzing with culture, The Arts House is also home to Candlelight concerts, which take place in The Chamber—arguably the most stunning room in the building. These intimate performances feature everything from classical tributes to Vivaldi to renditions of Metallica and anime soundtracks. A truly unforgettable experience, these concerts offer the chance to create lasting memories.
1. Is The Arts House free?
The answer to this question depends on the type of event or exhibition you’re attending. However, most of the spaces are free to visit.
2. What are the opening hours?
It’s open daily from 10 am to 9 pm.
3. Is there a restaurant?
For a perfect afternoon, relax with a bite to eat at one of the onsite eateries, including Country Foods Experiential Centre and Ureshii, while soaking in the historic atmosphere.
How to get to The Arts House?
This beautiful building is ideally located in the heart of the city centre and is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, lifts, and wheelchair-friendly toilets. The nearest MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) station is Raffles Place, which connects to multiple lines, making it easy to reach. If arriving by car, note that there is no onsite parking, but spaces are available at nearby car parks.
Nearby Venues
Singapore is a city that seamlessly melds some of the highest skyscrapers in the world with elegant old buildings like The Arts House. The venue is surrounded by landmarks, including the Asian Civilisations Museum, Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, and the Fullerton Hotel.
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.