Building Dreams

In 2017, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay announced that it would build a medium-sized theatre along its busy waterfront. This is a dream come true not just for the arts centre, but also for Singapore’s next generation of artists and audiences.

The much-needed multi-format venue will fill the gap between the Esplanade’s existing large performance halls and smaller studio spaces. It will also enable Esplanade to commission, produce and present more productions, especially those that tell Singapore and Asian stories.

Five years on, the Singtel Waterfront Theatre is finally ready to open its doors, in time for Esplanade’s 20th birthday on 12 Oct 2022 too! In this special photography exhibition, we go behind-the-scenes to take a glimpse at the people who built—literally—this new theatre amidst the pandemic, through the eyes of documentary photographer Bob Lee.

Hear from the architect who was tasked to design a flexible theatre that features multiple seating configurations. Get up close with the project manager (main contractor) who had to navigate the construction complications, manpower shortages and government restrictions during the pandemic. Plus three Esplanade staff who were involved in the project management, technical production and customer experience aspects of the new venue share their experiences.

Find out more on how they overcame these challenges and adapted to the constant changes to deliver the final product, as well as their hopes and dreams for the Singtel Waterfront Theatre, through the accompanying stories published on Esplanade Offstage.