AITA/IATA ARC Region Meeting in ChunCHEON, SOUTH KOREA

Representing Singapore, Opera Academy SG participated in the recent Asian Regional Centre (ARC) Meeting of the International Amateur Theatre Association (IATA), held in Chuncheon, South Korea on 7 March 2024. The IATA Asian Regional Centre is made up representatives of amateur theatre groups, community theatres and organisations from various countries including Australia, Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, and Singapore.

The mission of AITA/IATA is to promote understanding and education through theatre. AITA/IATA is a network that unites and links amateur theatre groups, community theatres and organisations, actively working for theatre amateurs and individuals throughout the world. 

One of the focal points of discussion was the growth and challenges faced by traditional art forms, particularly Bangsawan or Malay Opera, in Singapore. Opera Academy SG highlighted the importance of engaging the younger generation in preserving this cultural heritage. With English as the predominant language in Singapore, traditional art forms play a vital role in promoting the use of our native language among the youth.

After giving the meeting a brief introduction of Opera Academy SG, Noor Azhar Mohamed, Chief Executive Officer of Opera Academy SG, shared insights into the state of theatre post-COVID-19. He emphasised the emergence of new theatre practices fuelled by digital evolution and the importance of sustaining the traditional theatre art form. He also underscored the role of theatre in cultural and heritage preservation, stressing the engagement of people across all age groups.

Hafiz Yusof, Director for Programmes and Operations at Opera Academy SG, emphasised the significance of technology and social media in attracting the younger generation to traditional art forms. However, he stressed that physical performances remain essential to truly immerse audiences in the art form.

In a significant development, Mr. Alika Chandra from Indonesia was elected as the next President of the AITA/IATA ARC Region, a move applauded by Opera Academy SG.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to preserving and promoting traditional art forms across the region, with a focus on engaging younger audiences and leveraging technology while preserving the essence of live performances. Opera Academy SG looks forward to continued collaboration within the ARC to further enrich the cultural landscape of Asia.