Lifting Participation Rates in Arts Courses at Grassroots Organisations

Ms Janice Koh asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth given that in 2012, drama-related courses constitute only 1% of the total performing arts courses conducted at community clubs and residents' participation in drama formed less than 2% of the total number of residents who took part in performing arts courses, whether there are plans to address this gap in provision and to boost participation rates in this area.

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In 2012, a total of more than 200 drama courses were conducted in the Community Clubs. Beyond the Community Clubs, our libraries and the Esplanade also present drama-related workshops.

To cultivate more interest in drama, we have integrated theatre-related activities and workshops into our community events. For example, during the recently-concluded PAssionArts month, residents had the chance to work with drama artists and arts groups. A total of 30 theatre programmes and workshops were conducted for the community. These gave the residents the opportunity to tell their personal stories through drama, and co-create drama works under the guidance of theatre professionals. Residents can also join theatre interest groups at their local Community Clubs. Some examples include "Ageless Theatre", a theatre interest group for seniors based at Marine Parade Community Club; and "Yellow Chair Productions", a community theatre group based at Tampines Central Community Club.

Theatre groups supported by the National Arts Council, such as The Necessary Stage (TNS), also actively engage the community through a variety of drama-related programmes. For example, under its Theatre for Seniors (TFS) programme, TNS trains senior citizens in the basics of theatre, and provides them with opportunities to participate in public performances. To reach out to youths, TNS also offers arts education workshops in areas, such as playwriting, acting and drama tasters.

Cultivating interest in drama involves a partnership between the Government, artists and the community. My Ministry and our agencies will continue to provide opportunities for artists and theatre groups to engage the community through drama-related activities and programmes.