On This Date In 2002, Esplanade - Theatres On The Bay Officially Opened
Whether you call it “Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay” (Esplanade) or, endearingly, “The Durian”, this iconic spot has been the destination for all things arts-related in Singapore since it officially opened 22 years ago today (12 Oct).
Built on reclaimed land along Marina Bay, this arts hub is home to a 1,600-seat concert hall and a 2,000-seat theatre. It also boasts smaller arts venues, art installations, restaurants, and cafés. You could easily spend an entire day here soaking up the culture – or the air con.
The Esplanade from across the bay. | IMAGE: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
It started with a vision
The idea for a performing arts centre in Singapore was first mooted in 1975 by then-Minister for Culture, Ong Teng Cheong (who later became our first elected President). Fast forward 12 years, the Advisory Council on Culture and the Arts gave the green light to build this cultural gem.
On 11 Aug 1996, the Esplanade’s ground-breaking ceremony was officiated by then-Deputy Prime Minister Tony Tan. Fun fact: the Esplanade stands where the iconic “Satay Club” hawker centre used to be. You can even find a tribute to the Satay Club in the form of an art bench at the nearby Esplanade Park playground.
The Esplanade opened its doors on 12 Oct 2002; the event was officiated by then-President SR Nathan. The grand opening was celebrated with a spectacular 23-day performing arts festival featuring 1,300 artists from 22 countries – a cultural feast that drew over 1 million visitors to its ticketed and free performances.
The Esplanade's Concert Hall. | IMAGE: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
The Outdoor Theatre along Marina Bay. | IMAGE: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS
More than just a thorny face
While the “durian” may have a quirky exterior, inside, it’s a world-class performing arts venue. Its two main spaces are the Concert Hall and the Theatre.
The Concert Hall seats 1,600 and is equipped with an acoustic system designed by renowned American acoustician Russell Johnson.
The Theatre, modelled after traditional horseshoe-shaped European opera houses, can seat 2,000 people. With its four levels and Singapore’s largest stage, it’s perfect for big productions.
For more intimate performances, there’s the cosy Recital Studio (which seats 250) and the Theatre Studio (which seats 220). On the waterfront, the Outdoor Theatre is ideal for catching live performances with the Marina Bay skyline as your backdrop.
A lasting legacy
In its first full year of operations, the Esplanade saw an attendance of 949,906 visitors. Between April 2023 and March 2024, that number is now close to 3.81 million visitors. That’s because it caters to all audiences with a smorgasbord of arts offerings – from cultural festivals like Huayi, Pesta Raya and Kalaa Utsavam, to contemporary performances like da:ns, Baybeats, and the Mosaic Music Series.
In 2014, the Esplanade’s Concert Hall earned a spot on Emporis’ list of the "World’s 15 Most Beautiful Concert Halls". And in 2015, it was named one of SG Heart Map’s "50 Special Places."
Since its opening, the Esplanade has played a major role in shaping Singapore’s arts and culture scene. With over 31,000 events and millions of visitors, it’s nurtured local talent and provided a space for everything from big theatre productions to indie performances, giving everyone a platform to shine.
Discover all the latest shows at the Esplanade here.
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