Free of charge, subject to a refundable deposit of SGD 5 per pax
A specially curated Contemporary Shadow Puppet experience that reimagines the folk tales and origin stories of Singapore’s islands, weaving together maritime myths, age-old trade narratives and tales of legendary heroes. These immersive performances blend contemporary shadow puppetry, live soundscapes and modern narration to captivate audiences of all ages.
Check out the details of each performance below!
Walk-ins are subject to availability. Entry will not be permitted after the performance has begun.
Shadow of the Lion: How Singapura Got Its Name
Friday, 22 Aug | 7.30pm – 8.15pm & 9pm – 9.45pm
Long ago in the kingdom of Palembang, a prince named Sang Nila Utama set sail in search of destiny. His journey across the open seas was met with treacherous waters, roaring storms and a choice that would change his fate forever – caught in a violent tempest, Sang Nila Utama had to make the ultimate sacrifice. Would it be enough to guide him to safety? And what lies beyond the storm? An island unlike any other... a majestic creature... and a name whispered through the winds of time.
Join us in this breathtaking journey of courage, sacrifice and discovery, as we explore how a prince’s encounter with a lion gave birth to the name, Singapura.
Shadow of the Stone: The Story of Badang
Friday, 29 Aug | 7.30pm – 8.15pm & 9pm – 9.45pm
In a humble village by the river lived Badang, a hardworking young man with a quiet heart and powerful hands. When he catches a mysterious water demon and is granted supernatural strength, his life is forever changed. From clearing fields to lifting massive stones, his feats soon reach the ears of the king of Singapura.
Appointed as the royal champion, Badang must now face his greatest challenge yet – a duel with Nadi Bijaya, the strongest warrior from a distant land. Can sheer strength overcome skill? Will honour triumph over pride? Step into this legendary story of Badang, an awe-inspiring tale where myths meet might.
Shadow of the Swordfish: The Story of Redhill
Friday, 5 Sep | 7.30pm – 8.15pm & 9pm – 9.45pm
In the early days of Singapura, coastal villages were under siege – not by pirates, but by deadly swordfish that leapt from the sea and struck fear into the hearts of the people. Warriors and guards tried to defend the shore, but no one could stop the relentless attack... until a young kampung boy named Hang Nadim spoke up with a simple yet brilliant idea. Would the rulers listen to a child? Could his wisdom save a kingdom? In a time where envy and power reigned, sometimes a bright mind shines too brightly for those in power to bear. Will Hang Nadim be celebrated – or silenced?
Uncover the origins of Redhill in this powerful tale of bravery, jealousy and sacrifice.
About the performers
Bayang Troupe is a Singapore-based collective dedicated to the art of contemporary shadow puppetry and theatre education. We combine traditional storytelling with contemporary artistic practices to engage, educate, and entertain audiences of all ages. Our performances explore social themes, cultural heritage, and personal transformation through the unique lens of shadow theatre.
What makes shadow puppetry especially powerful is its ability to honour tradition while embracing innovation. It bridges the past and present, giving us limitless ways to connect with contemporary audiences through timeless stories.
Bayang Troupe has performed at theatre festivals and conducted workshops in Southeast Asia as well as in Europe. Bayang Troupe is also a professional drama workshop with a mission to train, guide and entertain our youths and the general public with the use and creation of contemporary shadow puppetry and its arts form. We are also the first shadow puppetry group in Singapore to focus on Contemporary Shadow.