Esplanade, Theaters by the Bay ~ prime reflection of Singapore

1 Esplanade Drive

Singapore 038981

The closer look at the intricate architecture of the Esplanade, Theaters by the Bay.

One of the interesting and architecturally unique that we witnessed while in Singapore’s Marina Bay is the presence of ‘Esplanade ~ Theaters by the Bay’ edifice.  Its conspicuous architecture is very astounding as its design is a precise replica of ‘durian’, a well known Southeast Asian tropical fruit which is too common in the southern part of the Philippines [Sigh! I missed the taste! (ahahaha!)]. The 2 oblong shape of the structure is undeniably outstanding and the roof is covered with thorn-like panel which is assembled scrupulously.

This magnificent view of Singapore's skyline awaits if ever you'll spend your vacation here.

Signage information explains that the Esplanade or colloquially known to locals as ‘The Big Durian’, officially opened on the 12^th of October, 2002. It was developed at a cost of about 600 Million Singapore Dollars which is equivalent to a staggering P19.8 Billion or USD 460 M! Whew! I may not be able to have that amount throughout my existence but just the experience of being in here is more than enough I guess (ahahaha!) 

The site map of Esplanade, colloquially known by locals as 'The Durian'.

We visited Esplanade for two consecutive times. First, when our best friend Lemwuel who is based in Singapore invited us to have dinner in Makansutra and the next is when we spent one whole day wandering all the attractions in Marina Bay. 

Interesting fountain to the underground metro.

Esplanade is a situated on the shores of Marina Bay just near the mouth of Singapore River. It is a waterside building built to be the center for performing arts which caters to all audiences with concerts, dance act, theater, recitals, various shows and cultural events. 

This is the picturesque view of the building from one of the vantage point during our flight in Singapore Flyer.

The closest stopped you can get to the vicinity is the underground Esplanade MRT Station (CC3) complete with so many memorabilia of many artist worldwide who showcased here in Esplanade. If you want to go to City Hall station, there is a link via the underground shopping center of City Link Mall and Raffles City. Just expect lots of walking as the place is quite far from each other, we even lost our way as Lemwuel forgot the exit going to The Fountain of Wealth. 

Balong took this from the observation deck at Sands Skypark

If Esplanade is the starting point of your entire journey within Marina Bay then you’re in the right place. There are so many things you can do in here as we devote a day just to explore all the spot that we wished to visit with. In your right is the famous signature icon of Singapore, the Merlion facing the stunning architecture of Marina Bay Sands and Double Helix Bridge. In your left is the Suntec City, where the famous 'Fountain of Wealth' is located. On the way to the front is a 10-minute walk to the ‘world’s largest observation wheel', 'The Flyer' and at your back is the place where all the party begins, the ‘Clark Quay’ just adjacent to the towering skyline of Central Business District.

'Sarong' an exhibit in celebration of the 10th Anniversary of the Esplanade.

On our visit at the interior of the building, we were fortunate as we witnessed various art pieces of native fabrics locally known in the Philippines as “malong” (Mindanao region) were arranged meticulously as a decoration exhibit in the foyer of the building. The display is called 'SARONG' which was organized by 'Brahma Tirta Sari Batik' Studio or BTS from Yogyakarta, Indonesia.

'Sarong' up-close by Brahma Tirta Sari Batik Studio (Agus Ismoyo and Nia Fliam)

The BTS were internationally renowned for their intricate, nuanced and time-intensive contemporary fine art textile that's why they were commissioned to start up the month-long celebration of the 10^th anniversary of the Esplanade. Brahma Tirta Sari which literally translates as 'creativity is the source of all knowledge' used contemporary language that will help bridge with the traditional practices.

This free exhibit explores the rich traditional root of ancient technique of batik textile of Indonesia believed as a work of the spirit. The fabric is decorated with drawing made of molten wax and it is then immersed in a dye bath. This piece of inspiration and the philosophy that underlies the creative process is already recognized as a UNESCO-designed world heritage. 

Outdoor theater located just behind the Esplanade.

An open area theater along Marina Bay Promenade that host several free outdoor performances.

A must visit too is the open-area theater along marina bay promenade called ‘Outdoor Theater' . The design is circular and has a tiered seating that can accommodate around 400 to a thousand audiences I guess. This venue host several free outdoor performances every week-end meant to liven up the arts scene from local bands and musicians worldwide. For music fans and lovers out there, come here for you to experience it. 

The beautiful backdrop of an open theater.

All in all, although the Esplanade building is sandwiched between many other interesting views that surround the Marina Bay, it's not something you should overlook. Just the distinct and intricate architecture alone makes it worth to stopover. Once you pass-by here, try to have some time in Marina Bay promenade too, it stretched along the side of Esplanade and a lovely place to unwind. 

Hello Flippy.... waiting for someone? hehehe..

Seeing the whole Marina Bay from different perspective is way more than words can say, don't miss the light and laser show that happen every night at 8 because it's spectacular. When hunger knocks, indulge yourself with sumptuous local dishes in the series of hawker stalls that lined up at "Makansutra", to complete your whole Singapore Tourist experience!

On our way to the underground metro in Esplanade, we saw this ad and BFF seems enjoying portraying to be one of the dancers huh? ahahaha!

So there you go, that is Esplanade, Theaters by the Bay, a prime reflection of Singapore.

Have a great day/night everyone.

Enan signing off.

Cheeerrrrrrrrrrrrrrriioooooooossssssssss..

SMILE :)

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