As previously reported by ARTINFO, the Singapore Theatre Festival returns to the LaSalle College of the Arts for its fifth edition this year, which will run June 30 through July 24 and feature eight new plays including the century-sweeping historical drama “HOTEL,” the comedy “My Mother Buys Condoms,” and LGBT drama “Let’s Get Back Together.”In the coming weeks look out for in-depth interviews with key members of the cast and crews of the latter two plays, but first ARTINFO spoke to Festival Director Ivan Heng, who gave us a sneak peek of what to expect this year.ARTINFO: How do you choose which plays feature in the festival?Ivan Heng: We commission, source and develop plays that present original perspectives about Singapore and the times that we live in.What trends have you noticed in recent Singapore theatre, and how much are they reflected in the festival line-up?There have definitely been more new, young companies and artists appearing on the scene, which is very heartening. It’s an indication that our theatre industry is not just becoming more vibrant, but that it’s also more viable as a career choice for young people.For this year’s Festival, we’re excited to present new and undiscovered playwrights. Thomas Lim’s “Grandmother Tongue” and Nessa Anwar’s “Riders Know When It’s Gonna Rain” are the first full-length plays by both young playwrights to be staged professionally. Business Times correspondent Helmi Yusof is also making his playwriting debut with “My Mother Buys Condoms.”What sets this year apart from previous years?This is the most ambitious, challenging and diverse festival to date. The award-winning “HOTEL” anchors the entire festival in the grand sweep of a century of history. In addition, there are seven new plays that represent a broader and more diverse line-up than we’ve ever had before at the festival. I am excited about the many ideas and themes that connect the entire season.What problems did you face in putting the festival together?This year’s festival will cost close to a million dollars. Unlike previous editions of the festival, we have not been able to secure a title sponsor, so it’s been challenging raising the money to stage the festival.We are digging into the company’s reserves to make it happen. We have also applied for funding from the Cultural Matching Fund, and are hopeful for a positive outcome.Which plays are you most looking forward to seeing?Together with my co-curator Alfian Sa’at, we’ve taken a personal interest in selecting each and every one of the plays. We do believe there’s something for everyone in this festival!The 2016 Singapore Theatre Festival runs June 30-July 24 at Lasalle College of the Arts.
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