Uncovering the hidden charisma of the Esplanade
The December holidays were soon coming to an end, but I was far from allowing the last bits of it to pass me by like that. With an outing with a good friend of mine coming up, I sat staring at the Google search engine, and wondered where I could find the one perfect place to satisfy my desire for adventure. Perhaps it was the soft piano ballads that emanated from the radio, or perhaps, it was the cup of hot chocolate that accompanied me on this cold night; two words that I hardly associated myself with popped up in my head – The Esplanade. Being someone who is not particularly involved in the Arts, I have always regarded the Esplanade as nothing more than a place where people go to watch performances. Similarly, people around me have told me how they knew nothing about what was happening in the Esplanade, and hence felt that it was a boring place with nothing to offer to people like us. However, I soon found out that these were mere misconceptions that could be easily rectified. Don’t believe me? Just read on. Our first encounter with the beauty of the Esplanade was at an underground tunnel, where unfamiliar music and voices greeted us. These sounds came from a documentary showcasing the different forms of contemporary dance in different countries. Even though the dance moves presented in the documentary seemed strange and the related music exotic to us, we could not help but to get our eyes transfixed onto not one, not two, but three screens. As we stepped into the Esplanade, the air conditioning that blew at our faces was not the only feeling we had. Instead, along with the gush of cold air, came a mixed feeling of pride that filled our hearts. We were mesmerised and excited, especially by the wide array of colours that made up the art piece exhibited.
Beautiful art piece at the Concourse
Subsequently, we chanced upon several other exhibitions and workshops, including one put up by an Indonesian author which showcased his collection of books. However, it was the library which truly impressed us the most. Those who have been to the library at the Esplanade would understand and acknowledge the uniqueness of it, but for those who have not had the opportunity to visit the library, you are in for a treat! As Singapore's only Arts library, it leaves no room for disappointment, even for the average person. Unlike the usual libraries around, aside from a small collection of fiction books, the library@Esplanade puts up music scores, audio discs, dance videos and movies of all genres for public loaning. In addition, the library also offers a jamming studio and screening rooms for the public to rent for their own use. But the one thing that rounds up the artistic feel in this library would be the furnishings within. Aside from the grand piano that sits proudly in the middle of the library, the seats along the windows resemble those at the cinemas, and the audio listening stations are cleverly situated to face the windows for that extra scenery.
A perfect combination of jazz and rain at the Esplanade
Words can only say so much; for to truly absorb and appreciate the beauty of the Esplanade, one has to experience it first-hand. Having such experiences would allow you to engage all your senses, and enable yourself to better resonate with what I’ve mentioned above. With its ever-changing schedule of exhibitions and activities, the Esplanade is certainly a place worth exploring and spending your time there. The next time you look for a spot to unwind after a long week, do consider the Esplanade! Who knows? You might find yourself going back for more after the first trip.