In an interview, the first CEO of the Chinese Cultural Centre, Choo Thiam Siew, stated that the centre is a government-supported public institution aimed at pooling resources and efforts to inherit and promote traditional Chinese culture. At the same time, it seeks to foster close integration and harmonious coexistence among the local multi-ethnic population.
He revealed that the Ministry of Social and Family Development has provided an initial first-year budget of $2 million. As the building is completed and activities increase year by year, the annual funding requirement may rise to $10 million.
He noted that the Chinese Cultural Centre building, scheduled for completion in 2016, will serve as a hub for high-quality performances, exhibitions, and cultural activities, providing a vibrant platform for local Chinese-speaking and English-speaking Chinese communities and young people to interact, while also helping new citizens understand local customs and culture.
The centre's building features small performance halls and practice rooms required by amateur art groups. There are two small performance halls equipped with professional lighting and sound, with 180 and 530 seats respectively. There are also two soundproof practice rooms, each 60 square meters, suitable for small musical ensembles and percussion bands to rehearse.
“We are providing ideal venue facilities not for profit; the rental fees for the performance halls and practice rooms will be set at a very reasonable level.” He explained that this arrangement is intended to encourage performing arts groups to regularly showcase their artistic achievements, thereby promoting the development of Chinese performing arts and culture.
The centre also has a multi-purpose hall covering 1,650 square meters, which can be rented by groups and individuals for meetings, gatherings, lectures, and even wedding banquets. Additionally, a 300-square-meter visual arts exhibition hall has been set aside for artists to exhibit their works.
Playing a catalytic and supportive role
Choo Thiam Siew was interviewed recently at the temporary office of the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations in Toa Payoh. He pointed out that the centre will also introduce traditional Chinese culture to English-educated Chinese individuals, enabling them to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.
“Chinese culture includes local opera, pop music, calligraphy, ink painting, Chinese music, and folklore. Through various channels, such as organizing lectures on ink painting and traditional music appreciation in English, we can deepen this group's understanding of traditional Chinese culture.”
Given the broad scope of culture, the Chinese Cultural Centre will assist in promoting niche interests like Chinese poetry, as well as activities of general interest, such as traditional festivals and Peranakan cuisine.
He emphasized that the mission of the Chinese Cultural Centre is to support and promote Chinese culture from the sidelines, acting as a catalyst and facilitator. It will not conduct classes or organize performances itself to avoid duplicating the educational services provided by other folk cultural and arts groups and schools. “Instead, we will consider funding groups we believe are worth supporting, sponsoring their publications, exhibitions, and performance activities.”
