When the Singapore Festival of Arts was first held in 1977, it was a relatively modest effort. Its aim was to improve the quality of life through an appreciation of both the performing and visual arts. Over the past half-decade, the Festival has grown in stature and, more importantly, has spurred a continually growing interest in the arts here.
The 1982 Festival is able to feature some of the best talent from Asia and the West. It provides an excellent opportunity for Singaporeans to widen their horizons and enjoy some of the best artistes in the world.
By bringing in internationally renowned choreographers, musicians and theatre directors, local artistes have a yardstick by which to measure their own work, gain inspiration, and acquire new techniques.
I would like to extend a warm welcome to our visiting performers from Australia, Great Britain, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Nigeria, the People’s Republic of China, the United States and Yugoslavia. Their participation is an indication that the Festival is on its way to attaining the international stature that it has striven for.
It is my pleasure once again to thank the Festival Co-sponsors, Mobil Oil Singapore Pte Ltd (who have sponsored these Festivals since their inception in 1977), the Singapore Tourist Promotion Board and our other major contributors, for their enthusiastic support. Their encouragement with time, manpower and finance has helped to make the Festival the most awaited event in our cultural calendar. The Festival would not have been possible without generous private-sector support, and I look forward to more of such support as this major event continues to grow and mature.
A festival of this nature attempts to open the doors of culture and bring the joy and exuberance of arts to the people. To the thousands of Singaporeans who will benefit, I say ‘enjoy’, and to the organisers, I wish every success.
– S Dhanabalan (Minister for Foreign Affairs and Culture)
(Source: Ministry of Culture Programme)