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Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay
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Landmark
The Esplanade, Theatres on the Bay is a performing arts centre located in the Marina Bay area of Singapore. Its distinctive spiky roof, inspired by the durian fruit, is a notable architectural feature. The centre comprises two main auditoriums: a 1,600-seat concert hall and a 2,000-seat theatre, along with multiple smaller studios. It opened in 2002 at a cost of S$600 million. The building's sun-shading system consists of over 7,000 triangular aluminium panels designed to reduce heat gain. The Esplanade is home to the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and hosts a wide range of performances from classical music to theatre and dance. It attracts more than 5 million visitors annually and is a key part of Singapore's arts and culture scene. The centre's design focuses on acoustic excellence, with the concert hall featuring adjustable acoustics for various performance types.
- Location: Singapore
- Top sights: Pororo Park · Happy Family of Five · Roof Terrace
- Nearby: Yishun (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 235 | 102 | 168 | 193 | 199 | 164 | 174 | 173 | 167 | 210 | 283 | 300 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay in Singapore is a cultural centre whose interiors are accessible during events. Public areas like the concert hall and viewing terraces can also be visited.
Typical hours
Public areas are typically open daily from 10:00 to 20:00. Performances have separate timings; it is advisable to check the schedule in advance.
Photography
Photography is allowed in public areas without flash. During performances, photography is usually prohibited out of respect for the artists.
Time needed
A walk through the public areas takes about 30 minutes to an hour. If you attend a performance, add the duration of the show.
Combine with
Combine the visit with a stroll along Marina Bay or to the Merlion statue. The neighboring ArtScience Museum is also worth a visit.
Getting there
Esplanade is located right on Marina Bay, easily accessible by MRT (Esplanade or City Hall stations). It is also a comfortable walk from the city center.
Insider tip
Visit the rooftop terrace which has a fantastic view of the skyline and the bay. Come in the evening when the building is lit up and the atmosphere is especially magical.
Geography
Facts
- Opened in 2002
- Cost S$600 million
- Concert hall capacity 1,600
- Theatre capacity 2,000
- Over 7,000 triangular panels on facade
- Attracts 5 million visitors annually
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Sights in the town Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay (4)
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Frequently asked questions
What is the Esplanade?
A large arts and theater center.
Can I view the architecture?
Yes, the outside area is accessible to all.
Are there free shows?
Occasionally there are free outdoor performances.
Are there restaurants here?
Yes, a very nice selection right by the water.
How is the acoustics?
World-class, especially in the concert hall.
Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay: where is it located?
Esplanade, Theatres on the Bay is located in Singapore.
Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay: what is there to see?
Highlights include Pororo Park, Happy Family of Five, Roof Terrace.
Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Mar, Sep.
Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay: why is it worth visiting?
The Esplanade, Theatres on the Bay is a performing arts centre located in the Marina Bay area of Singapore.
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