Dear friends of the media,

In a world that grows ever more complex and uncertain, how do our children navigate their journey to adulthood? What constitutes a safe haven for them, and where do they find a sense of home?

March On, Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay’s children’s festival returns from 6 – 17 March 2024. In its fourth edition, the festival presents specially commissioned immersive experiences by homegrown companies as well as international co-productions and presentations exploring the themes of home, adventure and coming of age.   

For children, home transcends the confines of a roof overhead; it encompasses emotions and an imaginative refuge where they can freely engage in play and weave dreams. March On delves into the concept of “shelter”, exploring its diverse expressions and forms through captivating performances and interactive workshops. We hope to encourage children to reflect on what shields and inspires them, fostering a desire to contribute to a brighter future for themselves and the world they inhabit.

In the Esplanade Theatre, we are proud to present well-known Akram Khan Company’s Jungle Book reimagined. An Esplanade co-production, this powerful performance of theatre and dance has been presented at international venues and festivals such as Edinburgh International Festival, Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts – New York, New Vision Arts Festival – Hong Kong and more. This famous tale of Kipling's will be retold with a new sense of urgency and reinterpreted via the lens of children today–-those who will inherit our world and become our future storytellers.

March On continues to be a festival where we work with Singapore artists versed in engaging with young audiences across arts disciplines. This year’s festival will feature two new works commissioned by Esplanade. The first is the return of immersive theatre company Void Deck Games with Caliban’s Island where children and their adult buddies go on an interactive adventure around Esplanade as they play characters, make challenging choices and complete quests. We are also excited to introduce Singapore-based artist collective PLAY! to March On with Aki’s Playground. This is a multi-sensory and interactive experience where participants of all ages are invited to explore magical worlds.

Theatre magic continues with Denmark’s Theatre Madam Bach's stunning show HOME. Using a unique blend of puppetry, music, and evocative storytelling, the performance sparks curiosity and explores ‘home’ as being much more than a roof over our heads. Outdoors along the Esplanade Waterfront, Australia’s Playable Streets brings the interactive installation The Plants, connecting our visitors to nature by inviting revellers to play the plants as musical instruments to create music with one another. 

Shining in Space is a family musical adventure to space with an orchestra, storytelling and multimedia. An Esplanade Production, this concert experience is a collaborative creative undertaking by artists from diverse arts practices and ages.

Making sure that the arts is accessible to one and all, March On 2024 features two productions with Relaxed Environment (RE) settings. A RE performance is perfect for anyone who benefits from being able to make a noise, leave and return to their seat or access the toilets during the performance. No modifications are made to the performance. These RE settings are available during selected performances of Jungle Book reimagined and Shining in Space.

The festival will continue to host the SEEDLINGS programme that brings together a group of enthusiastic and arts-loving young people aged 7 – 12 years to participate in various discussions and activities with artists. This year, participants of SEEDLINGS will also have public engagements with festival audiences. The spirited Tak Takut Kids Club children’s community from Boon Lay will also return to the festival with a participatory life-drawing project I Draw You, You Draw Me.

Throughout the festival, there will be workshops for children, families, and caregivers conducted by SOMAYOKE and ARTFOLD. We also continue our partnership with ASSITEJ Singapore to put together professional development and industry-based discussions for educators and artists. This year’s session will be on Tech x Tactility featuring artists from Australia’s Playable Streets and Singapore artists. There will also be a lineup of free programmes and activities all around Esplanade for everyone to enjoy. Finally, we would like to thank our Principal Sponsor, Naturel for their generous support of March On 2024.

We hope the festival will inspire everyone to re-imagine, play, hope, and reach out for the shining stars in space. Let’s March On towards a brighter world for us all!

Rachel Lim

Producer, The Esplanade Co Ltd