Singaporeans gaining interest in arts and culture

Singaporeans gaining interest in arts and culture

SINGAPORE - The arts scene in Singapore is growing steadily, according to a report by the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY).

The Singapore Cultural Statistics 2014 indicated that participation in arts and culture-related activities has increased, for the most part.

In particular, National Museums and Heritage Institutions noted a record-breaking 3.2 million visitors in 2013, up from 2.8 million in 2012 - a change attributed to offering free museum admission to Singaporeans and permanent residents in 2013.

The PAssionArts Movement, a community effort for arts-related events, also recorded a sizeable 100,00 participants over the course of its some 14,000 events held in 2013. In comparison, 85,000 people took part in such events in 2012.

A greater numbers of students are also finding their creative side with 5,409 freshly-enrolled tertiary arts students in 2013, an increase from 4,492 in 2012.

Non-ticketed arts and cultural events also observed an increase in viewership with 18.2 million attendees in 2013, a substantial increase from the 17.9 million in 2012.

Library activities also saw an increase in participants from 8,514 heads in 2012, to 13,849 in 2013.

Ticketed performing arts events were slighted, however, with the number of attendees falling from 3,497 to 3,006.

To aid the continuing development of the arts scene in Singapore, the government has increased its budget for the arts and cultural sector from $514.4 million in 2012 to $677.3 million in 2013.

Mr Lawrence Wong, Minister for Culture, Community and Youth said, "Singapore's arts and cultural landscap has been steadily growing in vibrancy over the past few years.

"As we celebrate our Golden Jubilee, there will be more opportunities for Singaporeans to enjoy the arts through events like the SG Dance Day, Concerts in the Park, the Jubilee Walk, and a variety of trails and exhibitions."

jasonsoh@sph.com.sg

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