While the announcement that Singapore will soon enter its second phase to continue slowing the spread of Covid-19 is invigorating, events such as festivals, concerts and stage entertainment remain unavailable. Yet not all is lost. Keeping us occupied with quality content are online festivals such as the upcoming Pesta Raya Online, Esplanade’s yearly festival which celebrates the Nusantara and Hari Raya Aidilfitri.
So from Jun 19-28, enjoy nine productions comprising three new works and six archival recordings from previous Pesta Raya editions, all from the comfort of your own home. Via the Pesta Raya site, access screenings like the Esplanade commission of Alkesah written by Zulfadli Rashid and directed by Aidli Mosbit or Raya Block Party that was hosted in 2016 at the arts venue itself.
Credit: Dan’s Pixel-Graphy
Fans of indie music will be delighted to catch Hikayat Gundik Berirama again, as it features Malaysian multi-instrumental ensemble The Venopian Solitude that performed alongside Singapore electronic duo .gif at Pesta Raya 2017. Traditional Malay music is also in the spotlight, so check out GhaMuhyi: Crossing the Boundaries of Ghazal too, where Malaysian music ensemble Ghamuhyi performs ghazal classics as well as originals together with Singapore’s Sri Mahligai and Orkestra Sri Temasek.
Then look forward to three new works including a talk show hosted by none other than Hafidz Rahman and Zuhairi Idris from Lepak One Korner; a traditional and contemporary Malay dance workshop and performance by Artistari Gentari; and an interactive programme that combines storytelling, craft and music, curated specially for kids. Created and recorded from the homes of the artists, these pieces attest to the boundless imagination and artistic pursuit of these individuals.
So now that households can accommodate up to five visitors beginning Jun 19 as well, there’s no better way to start the weekend of Phase 2 than with an intimate viewing of Pesta Raya Online with your close friends and family.
Pesta Raya Online runs from Jun 19-28 here.
