Theatres on the Bay

Since its opening in 2002, the Esplanade (Theatres on the Bay) has quickly become a popular tourist destination for visitors from around the world.

The multi-story building contains outstanding performance spaces which are home to a diverse program of events including plays, dance, film, opera, visual arts, and orchestral performances.

The theatre features traditional European design with 2,000 seats arcing in a horseshoe shape around the stage. A foyer leads to the concert hall which has seating for 1,600. A pipe organ was custom built and consists of 4740 pipes. The concert hall is well known for its revolutionary acoustics. In addition, there is an intimate recital studio, small theatre studio, library, meeting spaces, art museums, galleries, and outdoor performance spaces. Plus, there are 8,000 square feet devoted to a shopping mall and wide variety of restaurants.

Visitors can enjoy classic performances such as Swan Lake, A Midsummer’s Night Dream, Les Miserables as well as innovative contemporary performances. Throughout the year, the Esplanade presents over a dozen festivals and 20 continuous series. There are stimulating programs designed specifically for children such as PLAYtime! and Bitesize for 2-4 year old’s. At night, the Esplanade lights shimmer across the bay, and it becomes a hot spot for party-goers with its hip wine bars, lounges, exciting dance clubs and sumptuous eateries.

To get to Theatres on the Bay there are a number of options. Take the MRT City Hall MRT (North-South (red) or East-West (green) line) or Esplanade MRT (Circle Line). Alternatively, there is a taxi stand located at the entrance to Esplanade Mall along Raffles Avenue. Free parking is available but subject to availability and there are 808 parking bays in the basement car park. Get there early to avoid disappointment.