Practice Theatre

Practice Theatre

Practice Theatre was founded in 1965 by playwright Kuo Pao Kun and stands as one of the oldest and most significant theatre groups in Singapore’s local performing arts and cultural scene. With a history spanning half a century, through generations of effort—sometimes faltering, sometimes stormy—it has witnessed the continuous development of Singaporean culture and the gradual integration of Southeast Asian cultures.

Over the years, leveraging its bilingual strengths and guided by the philosophy of “rooting in the local, looking to the world, seeking common ground while preserving differences, and pursuing harmony,” Practice Theatre has continually introduced classic works while also encouraging original creations. It has infused local colour while maintaining a global perspective. Since its inception, the theatre has taken on the mission of arts education, bringing numerous courses and performances to schools and nurturing generations of Singaporeans. Many well-known songs and plays have been staged at Practice Theatre, such as “Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio,” “Descendants of Zheng He,” “Come Home When It’s Cold,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Three Hits on the White Bone Demon,” and “The Tempest,” all of which have been widely welcomed and loved.

To commemorate the invaluable legacy left by Kuo Pao Kun, the theatre also hosts the “Kuo Pao Kun Festival.” This festival marks not only an important milestone in the growth and development of the theatre but also serves as a collective tribute from art troupes and artists around the world to Singapore’s master of the stage.

Theatre Practice

Why you must go: One of Singapore’s most important theatres