There was hope that the Esplanade’s Baybeats would return for a physical festival this year, but that’s not going to be the case. However, music junkies need not fret, as a very special, virtual experience will be taking place instead.
For the very first time, the annual alternative music showdown (Nov 6-8) will be moving into Esplanade’s crown jewel, the Concert Hall, as well as the mighty Esplanade Theatre. From the Concert Hall, expect livestream performances by six Baybeats Budding Bands, all of whom are making their debut at the festival after two months of mentorship.
Then, set against the backdrop of the Theatre’s auditorium, bands including dream pop starlets Subsonic Eye, theatrical metal band Cockpit, electronic pop sextet Riot !n Magenta and punk metal veterans Opposition Party will be livestreaming their performances.
Still missing live gigs? The Esplanade Annexe Studio will bring the experience to your homes with heavyweights such as indie rock band Astreal, all-star group Hanging Up The Moon and hip hop star THELIONCITYBOY featuring Amthakid. They will perform in special two-way livestream sets with live audiences projected on screens around the performers.
You can even get up close with the performers through Chillout Sessions on Instagram Live. At 7.30pm and 9.30pm, you can hang out with selected artistes as they play games and chat about everything under the sun.
With more events to come, and live performances making a return to indoor venues, the Esplanade will be able to welcome more homegrown talent in a variety of ways possible. You can discover more programmes here.
Baybeats 2020 is happening Nov 6-8 at Baybeats online and Esplanade Offstage.
