EXHIBITION WITH A DIFFERENCE

Take a peek at 100 masterpieces by 10 master painters from China, including oil painter Miao Yaosheng. You can also catch piano recitals by two award-winning young pianists - Singapore-born William Wei, 10, and his 14-year-old China-born brother, Rex.

Where: Shangri-La Hotel, Banyan Room Level 1, Orange Grove Road MRT: Orchard When: Today: 10am - noon,

2- 4pm, 7 - 9pm & 11pm - 1am & tomorrow: 10.30am - 12.30pm, 3.30- 5.30pm & 7.30 - 9pm (art exhibition), Today : 8.30am, 1, 5.30 & 10pm (recital by William Wei), Tomorrow : 9am (recital by William Wei), 1.30pm (recital by Rex Wei) & 6pm (recital by William Wei) Admission: Free (art exhibition), $138 for each piano recital

Tel: 6534-5634

I'VE MET YOU AT A TIME IN MY LIFE WHEN I'M NEITHER HERE NOR THERE

Home-grown artist Angie Seah crosses the boundary between reality and the imaginary, creating a dreamscape of allegorical visions and childhood memories in her interactive exhibition which includes videos and objects.

Where: The Substation Gallery, Armenian Street MRT: City Hall When: Tomorrow - Sept 3: 11am - 8pm daily, closed on public holidays Admission: Free Info: Log on to www.angiesimplicity.com

MATRIARCHS, GODDESSES AND THE BLESSED VIRGIN

Influenced by his rich Peranakan heritage, Singapore artist Martin Loh captures Peranakan women floating on the lotus of Kuan-Yin or being covered by the shawl of the Virgin Mary.

Where: Utterly Art Exhibition Space, 229A South Bridge Road, Level 2 MRT: Chinatown When: Till Sun: noon - 8pm (today & tomorrow), noon - 5.30pm (Sun) Admission: Free Tel: 6226-2605

SCULPTURES ALIVE!

Showcased are award-winning sculptures by Chinese sculptor Zhang Hua, a silver medallist of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Landscape Sculpture Competition whose works are among more than 80 sculptures installed at the China Olympic Forest Park in Beijing where the 'Bird Nest' National Stadium is located.

Where: Mulan Gallery, 02-33, 19 Tanglin Shopping Centre MRT: Orchard When: Till Sun: 11am - 6.30pm (today & tomorrow), 1 - 6pm (Sun) Admission: Free Tel: 9662-3085

FAIRYTALE

Walk straight into a fairytale at The Arts House. Six artists will magically transform its Gallery into a storybook to display the storybook qualities of everyday life. The exhibition, which features miniature sculptures, mixed media collages and photographs, is presented by Singapore artist Andrea Emmanuel.

Where: The Arts House Gallery, Old Parliament House, 1 Old Parliament Lane MRT: Raffles Place When: Till Mon: 10am - 7pm Admission: Free Tel: 6332-6919 or log on to www.oncewewerefairies.com

GANTI OLI - CONTEMPORARY PAINTINGS FROM INDONESIA

Various approaches to art - from kitschy neon light to digital images on computer screens to printed mass media - are showcased at this exhibition by contemporary Indonesian artists such as Agus Suwage, R.E. Hartanto and Yunizar.

Where: Valentine Willie Fine Art, HT Contemporary Space, 02-04 Tanjong Pagar Distripark, 39 Keppel Road MRT: HarbourFront When: Till next Thu: 11am - 7pm (daily), 11am - 3pm (Sun), closed on Mon Admission: Free

Tel: 8133-1760 Info: Log on to www.vwfa.net

AESTHETIC ENCOUNTERS

Revel in the individuality and freedom of expression as exemplified by the artworks of nine young artists from Beijing, Chongqing and Guangzhou. They are inspired by contemporary life with influences from pop and cartoon culture, which is popular with today's younger generation of Chinese.

Where: Art Seasons, Eunos Technolink 02-12, 7 Kaki Bukit Road 1 MRT: Aljunied When: Till next Fri: 11am - 7pm

(Mon - Fri), noon - 6pm (Sat), closed on Sun

Admission: Free Tel: 6741-6366 Info: Log on to www.artseasonsgallery.com

EXILE IN MY REALM: A SELF RENDEZVOUS

Bunny-eared and red-nosed human characters are the signature motifs of Malaysian-born visual artist Foon Foono. Compelling, dark and sexy, his works revolve around the many facets of humans.

Where: Artoholic Gallery, Nota House, 422 Joo Chiat Road MRT: Paya Lebar When: Till Aug 30: noon - 7pm

(Mon - Fri), 10am - 9pm (Sat), closed on Sun

Admission: Free Tel: 6348-7793

SYNTHESIZE ABSTRACTION - REFLECTIONS OF THE NEW, REMEMBRANCE OF THE OLD

Singapore artist Robert Teo explores the energy of urban Singapore by contrasting it with hints of history hidden in the landscape. His works resemble a digital print of an abstract painting.

Where: Alliance Francaise, 1 Sarkies Road MRT: Newton When: Till Aug 30: 11am - 7pm (Mon - Fri), 11am - 5pm (Sat), closed on Sun Admission: Free Tel: 6737-8422

PENINSULAR & ISLAND

Art knows no borders, and this group exhibition by Singapore and Malaysian artists proves it. Showcasing the works of Singapore artists Migual Chew, Om Mee Ai and Haslinda A.R., as well as those of Malaysian artists Justin Lim, Samsudin Wahab and Yusri Sulaiman.

Where: Taksu Singapore, Holland Village, Workloft @ Chip Bee, 02-74, 43 Jalan Merah Saga MRT: Buona Vista

When: Till Aug 30: 10am - 7pm (Mon - Sat), closed on Sun Admission: Free Tel: 6476-4788

MOOD SWINGS

See people with different facial expressions depicted in abstract and mix mediums at this exhibition by local illustrators Esther Lim Kah Hwee and Joeel Lee Kian Kong.

Where: The Arts House Foyer, Old Parliament House, 1 Old Parliament Lane MRT: Raffles Place When: Till Aug 30: 10am - 8pm Admission: Free Tel: 6332-6919

KHANS ARTVAULT

Check out paintings by Singapore artists such as Thomas Yeo and Chinese artists such as Li Chang Yi. Pottery items and antique carpets are also on display.

Where: 40A Jervois Road MRT: Redhill/Tiong Bahru

When: Till Aug 30: 11am - 5pm (Mon - Sat), viewing by appointment only, closed on Sun Admission: Free

Tel: 8223-0954 Info: E-mail info@artvault.sg to make an appointment

STORIES FROM HOME

Get an insight into the legends and folklore of the Philippines. Check out this exhibition by 21 contemporary Filipino artists which explores their country's collective mmemory, ranging from mysticism to tales of creation and narrations of heroic feats. Artists include Carlo Gernale, Rene Cuvos, Dennis Fortozo and Jeff Carnay.

Where: Forth Gallery, 69A Pagoda Street, Level 2 MRT: Chinatown When: Till Aug 31: 11.30am - 7pm (Tue - Sun) by appointment on Mon Admission: Free Tel: 6222-7809

CONTEMPORARILY GREEN

Go green. Chinese contemporary artist Ren Jianhui colours his portraits in different shades of green to celebrate the diversity of mankind. Despite the ravages of time, the eyes of the people he portrays glitter with purity, reflecting their good nature.

Where: The Art Loft, Volvo Showroom, 249 Alexandra Road MRT: Buona Vista When: Till Aug 31: 10am - 9pm daily Admission: Free Tel: 9117-8987

LET'S COMPOSE THE COMPOSERS! (DRAWINGS BY TAM HOE YEN)

There's another way to get close to classical music composers. Check out this exhibition featuring drawings of various composers such as Chopin, Bach, Schubert and Debussy by Tam Hoe Yen, a lawyer-turned-English language lecturer and part-time artist.

Where: Library @ Esplanade MRT: City Hall When: Till Aug 31: 11am - 9pm (Mon - Fri), 11am - 8pm (Sat & Sun) Admission: Free Tel: 9010-3413

FUSION III

Featuring contemporary Indian artworks by Babu Xavier, Hiran Mitra, M. Suriamoorthy and Maya Bhalla, among others. Ceramics will also be showcased.

Where: Artmosiac Gallery, Mica Building 01-02, 140 Hill Street MRT: City Hall/Clarke Quay When: Till Sept 6:

11am - 5pm (Mon - Fri), 2 - 4pm (Sat), closed on Sun Admission: Free Tel: 6336-6406 Info: Log on to www.artmosaic.com.sg

MOTHERHOOD GAMES: PAINTINGS BY SHIA YIH YING

Malaysian artist Shia Yih Ying creates works featuring her daughter in fairytale settings, such as having tea with the Mad Hatter from Alice In Wonderland.

Where: National Institute of Education, The Art Gallery, Nanyang Technological University, 1 Nanyang Walk, off Jalan Bahar MRT: Boon Lay When: Till Sept 12: 10am - 5pm (Mon - Fri), 11am -3pm (Sat), closed on Sun Admission: Free Tel: 6790-3557

audition

CATCHING ADAM CHENG (OPEN AUDITION)

Wanted: Five actresses and two actors to act in a comedy which won Theatre Idols 2008. Written by Jack Chye and directed by Jeffrey Tan, it's about four elderly women who hatch a plot to escape from a nursing home in order to catch Adam Cheng's concert at The Esplanade.

Where: The Room Upstairs, Action Theatre, 42 Waterloo Street MRT: Bugis When: Sun: 1 - 5pm Tel: 6837-0842 Info: Pre-registration required. Call Sri of Action Theatre or e-mail info@action.org.sg and give your name, age and roles you hope to play, and you will be alloted a time slot for the audition. Prior acting experience preferred.

book

KATE MOSSE, A MEET-THE-AUTHOR SESSION

Get up close with Kate Mosse, author of New York Times best-selling novel Labyrinth, who is here to promote her latest book Sepulchre, a haunting tale of secrets, murder and the occult set in both 19th- and 21st-century France.

Where: British Council, Level 2, Room 206, 30 Napier Road MRT: Orchard When: Next Tue: 2pm Admission: Free Tel: 6319-9931 ext 741

bornfire festival

BORNFIRE PERFORMANCES & CLOSING FESTIVAL PERFORNANCE

It will set your imagination on fire. Catch visually exhilarating performances which combine dance, theatre and pyrotechnics at Kreta Ayer. It features acclaimed acts by performers from five countries - Finland, Sweden, Germany, Britain and Singapore.

Where: Kreta Ayer, Trengganu Street, behind the old Chinatown market MRT: Chinatown When: Tomorrow: 7.30 - 8pm (Bornfire performances) Admission: Free Where: Sentosa, KM8, Tanjong Beach MRT: HarbourFront Sun:7 - 8pm (closing festival performance) Admission: Free but pay usual entry fee to island Tel: 9768-9149 Info: Log on to www.bornfire.com.sg

carnival

ACTIVE AGEING CARNIVAL

Seniors can network and have fun with their families and friends at this Active Ageing Carnival where they can participate in go-kart races, alfresco bowling and board games and have free health screening. They can also catch popular Singapore singers from the 1970s, such as Rahimah Rahim and Vernon Cornelius.

Where: Ngee Ann City, Civic Plaza, Orchard Road MRT: Orchard/Somerset When: Tomorrow & Sun: 11am - 9pm Admission: Free Tel: 6796-9346 Info: Log on to www.activeageingfestival.com.sg

50TH ANNIVERSARY CARNIVAL

Thinking of helping the less fortunate? Find out more by visiting this carnival which showcases services provided by various Voluntary Welfare Organisations (VWOs), their achievements and the evolvement of social services here. They come under the umbrella of the National Council of Social Service which is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

Where: Esplanade Park, Connaught Drive, opposite The Padang MRT: City Hall/Raffles Place When: Tomorrow: 10am - 9pm & Sun: 10am - 2pm Admission: Free Info: Tuck into food and participate in games run by the Voluntary Welfare Organisations. Log on to www.ncss.org.sg

charity

NEW PERSPECTIVE (SAIGON CHILDREN'S CHARITY)

Buy any of 45 photographs of Vietnamese children and the proceeds will go to the development of the Saigon Children's Charity Vocational Training School and The Business Times Budding Artists Fund. Snapped by young photographers from the vocational training school, they provide fascinating insights into their lives.

Where: The Arts House, Old Parliament House, 1 Old Parliament Lane MRT: Raffles Place When: Today - next Wed: 10am - 10pm Admission: Free Tel: 6339-9110

ADOPTION DRIVE (HOMELESS DOG DAY)

Open your heart and home to a homeless dog this weekend. A large number of abandoned canines await you at this Adoption Drive by the Action For Singapore Dogs Society.

Where: Little Paws, 201 Kurau Court, 01-03 Telok Kurau Road MRT: Eunos When: Tomorrow & Sun: 11am - 7pm Admission: Free Tel: 6345-1233 Info: Pay $220 for vaccination, microchipping, sterilisation and check-up for a female dog or $200 for a male dog

HEARTSTRINGS WALK

Join this 2.5km walk along Esplanade Park and the Singapore River and help raise funds for the 310,000 beneficiaries of the Community Chest. You may also walk away with an Alien Ware gamer's computer worth $12,000 in a lucky draw. The walk will be flagged off by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Where: Esplanade Park, Connaught Drive, opposite The Padang MRT: City Hall When: Tomorrow: 4.30pm Admission: $10 Tel: 6210-2605 Info: You may register at any AXS machine. Walk in a colourful costume to win Takashimaya shopping vouchers worth as much as $200 and up to 20 Singapore Flyer tickets. Log on to www.comchest.org.sg for inquiries

classical

FRIENDSHIP FESTIVAL OF CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT

Enjoy classical works such as Mozart's String Quartet In C Major, K465 Dissonance and Shostakovich's Prelude And Scherzo For String Octet, Op.11, performed by four string quartets: The Amadi String Quartet from Melbourne, Australia, The Robertson Quartet from Glasgow, Scotland, Singapore's T'ang Quartet and The Principal Quartet of the Singapore National Youth Orchestra. Presented by the Singapore National Youth Orchestra, Ministry of Education.

Where: Victoria Concert Hall, Empress Place MRT: Raffles Place When: Today: 8.15pm Admission: $6 Tel: 6348-5555 Info: Log on to www.snyo.org.sg

GALA: YEFIM BRONFMAN - LITTLE PIANO PIECES

Tashkent-born virtuoso pianist and Grammy Award winner Yefim Bronfman performs Brahm's Second Concerto at this Singapore Symphony Orchestra (SSO) concert under the baton of Shui Lan. Allen Meek, American principal trombone with the SSO, will perform Christopher Rouse's Trombone Concerto dedicated to the memory of Leonard Bernstein.

Where: Esplanade Concert Hall MRT: City Hall Tomorrow: 7.30pm Admission: $16 - $83 Tel: 6348-5555

SUNSHINE. NEW LIFE: LIU SHA WITH SCO

Catch works such as Legend by Hao Wei Ya and Dianxi Folk Tunes by Guo Wen Jing at this Singapore Chinese Orchestra (SCO) concert under the baton of Liu Sha, conductor of China's Chinese National Orchestra. The concert features Qu Jian Qing (yangqin) and Meng Jie (suona).

Where: Singapore Chinese Orchestra Concert Hall, Singapore Conference Hall, Shenton Way MRT: Tanjong Pagar When: Tomorrow: 8pm Admission: $10 - $37 Tel: 6348-5555

ALUMNI HOMECOMING

Enjoy works by Debussy, Piazzolla and Francaix at this concert featuring two former graduates of the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music. This joint woodwind recital features Aw Yong Tian, who has just returned from his studies at Hochschule der Kunste Bern, a conservatory of music in Switzerland, and Cheryl Lim Xuanzi, who has returned from graduate studies at the Manhattan School of Music in the United States.

Where: Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, Conservatory Concert Hall, next to University Cultural Centre, National University of Singapore, Kent Ridge MRT: Clementi/Buona Vista When: Next Tue: 7.30pm Admission: Free Tel: 6516-1167

VICTOR ASUNCION: PIANO RECITAL

Be treated to a selection of works by composers such as Bach, Mozart, Schumann and Schubert at this piano recital by Dr Victor Asuncion, a United States-based Filipino visiting artiste at the Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music. He is currently the Assistant Professor of Piano and Chamber Music at the University of Memphis.

Where: Yong Siew Toh Conservatory of Music, Conservatory Recital Studio, next to University Cultural Centre, National University of Singapore, Kent Ridge MRT: Clementi/Buona Vista When: Next Thu: 7.30pm Admission: Free Tel: 6516-1167 Info: No entry to children under six

contest

PERSPECTIVES PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION 2008

Enter your best picture of Singapore in celebration and stand to win the top prize of an Intuos Professional Pen tablet worth $569. You must creatively capture three important design gift items at National Day Parade 08, including the Perspectives Funpack and the Mass Display Card.

Tel: 6227-0735 Info: Submit entries by today. Log on to www.ndpperspectives.com to submit your entry online

EXPRESS YOUR APPRECIATION

Pay a tribute to someone who has touched your life with a song, poem, painting, video clip or any imaginative way and you could win a Canon Powershot A650 digital camera in any of two categories - Category 1 for those in primary school and Category 2 for those in secondary school and junior college. Part of The New Paper Be Yourself Day 2008 and President's Challenge 2008 Reach Out Singapore.

Info: Poems and stories are limited to a maximum of 1,000 words, Photos and drawings must include a caption and short description, Movies must be sent in mov or avl format and songs in mpeg3 format (maximum file size: 2MGB), E-mail your entry to mkgtnpbyd@sph.com.sg with your name, identity card & birth certificate numbers, age, school name, class & contact number, or send your entry to Be Yourself Day, PBP/Marketing, Singapore Press Holdings, 1000 Toa Payoh North, Singapore 318994 (Attention: Chok Huey Jiuan), Closing date: Today. Results will be published in The New Paper next Friday

EPSON'S COLOUR IMAGING CONTEST 2008

A total of $100,000 worth of prizes are up for grabs in this contest.

Tel: 6586-5598 Info: Visit www.epson.com.sg for information and to download an application form. Closing date: Next Friday. Submit entries to Epson Solution Centre, 03-18/19 Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Road, Singapore 238880 or to Cathay Photo Store (Pte) Ltd, Peninsula Plaza 01-07/08, 111 North Bridge Road, Singapore 179098

TO MY GRANDPA/GRANDMA CONTEST

To win a trip for two to Tokyo, share your stories and memories of your grandparents with Stomp.

Info: Send a written entry in 500 words or less, or a short video of between 30 seconds and five minutes to 75557@stomp.com.sg, Closing date: Aug 31, Log on to www.stomp.com.sg for details

ROUND FOOD FOR HAPPY MOOD PHOTO CONTEST

Fancy winning Jetstar Asia air tickets for a group of four to any of 14 destinations worth $1,000? Just capture your sweet moment with Donut Empire's doughnuts.

Info: Closing date: Oct 10, 5.30pm, Submit your entry online or at any of the Donut Empire outlets, Log on to www.donutempire.com.sg/photocontest for information on the contest

THE SCOTTISH CHALLENGE

If you plan to study in Scotland and have some knowledge about the place, sign up for this online contest by the British Council and you might take home the latest iPod Touch.

Info: Closing date: Oct 31, The contest involves answering several multiple-choice questions and writing a short piece on why you want to study in Scotland. Log on to www.educationuk.org.sg/scottishquiz

dance

DANCE IMAGE '08

An inaugural performance by Wu Yue Dance Studio Arts Troupe, a new dance company here. Dances include Global Warming, The Lantern Dance, Delighted Durian and Horses On The Highland.

Where: Victoria Theatre, Empress Place MRT: Raffles Place When: Tomorrow: 8pm & Sun: 3pm Admission: $12 - $20 Tel: 9025-8502 Info: E-mail wuyuedance@gmail.com

THIRUKUTRALA KURAVANJI

It's a classic tale of love and fortune. This 18th-century Indian dance drama about a princess who falls in love at first sight is being revived by Ambujah Thiru, a new-generation Indian dance choreographer. Under the guidance of Cultural Medallion winner Santha Bhaskar, the dance drama features 40 dancers.

Where: Lee Foundation Theatre, Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts, 151 Bencoolen Stret MRT: Bugis When: Tomorrow & Sun: 8pm Admission: $20 & $25 Tel: 6336-6537 Info: Tickets available from Bhaskar's Arts Academy at 19 & 20 Kerbau Road and Nrityalaya Aesthetics Society at Stamford Arts Centre 01-01, 155 Waterloo Street. Log on to www.bhaskarsartsacademy.com

film

JYOYUU: JAPANESE FILM FESTIVAL 2008

This 10-day festival which kicks off today explores femininity in Japanese cinema, paying tribute to heroines, antogonists and muses on the silver screen. The programme features an eclectic mix of riotous pop-art sensibilities of Sakuran to the subdued, emotionally-wrenching Harmful Insect. The opening film is Sansho The Baliff, a 1954 film by Mizoguchi Kenji. It is an epic tale of loss, reunion and memory spanning a decade. With English and Japanese subtitles.

Where: National Museum of Singapore, Gallery Theatre, 93 Stamford Road MRT: Dhoby Ghaut When: Today: 7.30pm (Sancho The Baliff, PG), Tomorrow: 11am (Ginza Cosmetics, PG), 2.15pm (Mother, PG), 4.30pm (A Wanderer's Notebook, PG) & 7.30pm (Floating Clouds, PG), Sun: 11am (Abduction: The Megumi Yokota Story, PG), 2.15pm (Love Letter, PG), 4.30pm (The Eternal Breasts, NC16) & 7.30pm (A Hen In The Wind, PG) Admission: Free Tel: 9017-0160 Info: E-mail jff2008@sfs.org.sg or log on to www.sfs.org/jff2008

getai

HUNGRY GHOST FESTIVAL

The heartland goes glitzy with song, dance and flashy style. Besides a marathon show at Shun Li Industrial Park, Kaki Bukit Avenue 1, that will start at 4pm, other performances will begin at the usual time.

Where: Block 117 Commonwealth Drive, Block 325 Bukit Batok Street 33, Block 21 Hougang Avenue 3, Block 27A Jurong Port Road, Block 769 Yishun Avenue 3, Block 318 Jurong East Street 31, Block 408 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10, Block 53 Chai Chee Street, Block 347 Jurong East Avenue 1, Geylang Lorong 17, Geylang Lorong 18

When: 7.30 - 10.30pm

gig

SINGAPORE BAND CHALLENGE 2008 (GRAND FINALS)

It's the final showdown of the Singapore Band Challenge. Eight bands from the 17 & Under, and 18 & Above categories will fight to win $11,000 worth of cash and prizes. The winners also get to make a guest appearance at the Concert In The Park at Fort Canning Park on Sept 13 & 14.

Where: Clarke Quay, Arena, 3B River Valley Road MRT: Clarke Quay When: Tomorrow: 2 - 5pm Admission: $12 including an alcoholic drink for those aged 18 and above or $10 with a soft drink for those under 18 Info: Log on to www.singaporedrumfest.com

DIGITAL MUSIC 101 WITH THE ANALOG GIRL

Join local electronic pop artist The Analog Girl, hailed by Time magazine as one of the music acts to watch this year, as she gives an intimate music workshop. Learn tips and tricks on how she crafts her music with her laptop and gaming gadgets.

Where: Esplanade Bay Room MRT: City Hall When: Tomorrow: 2 pm Admission: $18 Tel: 6348-5555 Info: Log on to analog-girl.net/

THE PHILHARMONIC WINDS GOES POP

Singer-actor Sebastian Tan of Miss Saigon and Broadway Beng fame joins The Philharmonic Winds to belt out tunes such as Better Man. The wind orchestra will perform tunes such as Guns 'N Roses, Sweet Child of Mine, I Believe as well as xinyao tunes.

Where: Esplanade Concert Hall MRT: City Hall

When: Sun: 7.30pm Admission: $16 - $28 Tel: 6348-5555

heritage

HERITAGE TRAIL @ QUEENSTOWN

Did you know that hip Holland Village is actually part of Queenstown, one of the oldest housing estates in Singapore? Join this bus-and-walking tour of Queentown and find out more about its hidden treasures. Organised by the National Library.

Where: From National Libary Main Lobby, Level 1, Victoria Street, to Queenstown Community Libary Level 1 MRT: City Hall/Bugis When: Tomorrow: 10am - 1pm Admission: $12

Tel: 6332-3255 Info: Pay at meeting point, Limited places, so register early by logging on to golibrary.nlb.gov.sg

magic

ULTIMATE MAGIC (SNEAK PREVIEWS)

If you cannot wait for Singapore's first permanent illusion show which starts next month, catch a sneak preview of it tomorrowand on Aug 30 at Clarke Quay's The Arena. It features J.C. Sum and 'Magic Babe' Ning. The acts include Sum's Impossible Teleportation mega illusion, where he will attempt to teleport into the Arena from other parts of the island, such as the Singapore Flyer and Night Safari.

Where: Clarke Quay, The Arena, River Valley Road MRT: Clarke Quay When: Tomorrow& Aug 30: 7.30pm Admission: $40 (adult) & $20 (child aged six to 12)

Tel: 6338-3158 Info: Price includes a standard drink

museum

MONTAGE 2008

View selected entries from an annual photographic exhibition on the theme of Tension. Organised by The Photographic Society of the National University of Singapore, it features the works of students from secondary schools, junior colleges, tertiary institutions, arts colleges and members of the public. The event also includes a photography competition and seminar.

Where: NUS Museum, NUS Centre for the Arts, 50 Kent Ridge Crescent MRT: Clementi When: Today & tomorrow:

10am - 7.30pm, Sun: 10am - 6pm, Ends on Sun Admission: Free Tel: 6516-8817

ODE TO OUR HEROES

It's a salute to our heroes. View stamps featuring people such as national servicemen, policemen and nurses who have made a difference to the lives of Singaporeans and read heartfelt letters by students about their heroes.

Where: Singapore Philatelic Museum, 23B Coleman Street MRT: City Hall/Clarke Quay When: Till Aug 31: 1 - 7pm (Mon), 9am - 7pm (Tue - Sun) Admission: $5 (adults), $4 (children aged three to 12 and senior citizens aged 60 and above)

Tel: 6337-3888 Info: Log on to www.spm.org.sg

DRAGONS, TREASURES AND MASTERPIECES

Take a peek at a rare philatelic collection which includes the first official postage stamp of China from the Qing dynasty (1878-1911) and award-winning materials on the Cultural Revolution (1966-1976).

Where: Singapore Philatelic Museum, 23B Coleman Street MRT: City Hall/Clarke Quay When: Till January next year: 1 - 7pm (Mon), 9am - 7pm (Tue - Sun) Admission: $5 (adults), $4 (children aged three to 12 and senior citizens aged 60 and above) Tel: 6337-3888 Info: Log on to www.spm.org.sg

nightlife

DJ KOUTAROU (JAPAN)

A blend of dirty house music is what clubbers can expect from this DJ who has continued to cultivate and change the Japanese club scene. DJ Koutarou has also done remixes for well-known Japanese artistes such as Mai Kuraki and Ken Hirai, and composed music for Suzuki Motors Productions and Olympus Camera.

Where: Helipad, Unit 05-22, The Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen Street MRT: Clarke Quay When: Tomorrow night, 10 pm till late Admission: Free Info: Wyborowa Exquisite Vodka will go for $170 nett per bottle

DJ YEODIE (HK)

Named the top DJ this year by Juice Magazine Hong Kong, DJ Yeodie has been at it for 13 years and holds residency at clubs like Volar, Halo and M1NT in Hong Kong. His mesh of funk, soul and hip-hop beats will get you gyrating on the dance floor in no time. Resident DJs Drem and Mylk, along with beatbox artiste Dharni, will also helm.

Where: Butter Factory, Unit 01-03 48 Robertson Quay MRT: Clarke Quay When: Tomorrow night, 11pm till late Admission: $21 for women and $26 for men (includes two drinks)

show

OLYMPIC CHAMPIONSHIP CAT SHOW

Catch the battle of the felines at this Olympic Championship Cat Show featuring 80 cats of all breeds, including the short-haired Persian, Siamese and Oriental, at the Malay Village here. By the Singapore Cat Club.

Where: Malay Village, Singahsana Hall, Geylang Serai MRT: Paya Lebar When: Sun: 10am - 5pm Admission: Free

Tel: 9798-3900 Info: Other highlights include a bazaar & adoption drive. Log on to www.singaporecatclub.com or e-mail scc@singaporecatclub.com

SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL JEWELLERY SHOW 2008

This annual display of what's best and current in the jewellery industry will make your eyes sparkle. Featuring 180 local and international exhibitors and 15,000 visitors from 33 countries, as well as oil paintings embellished with gold depicting bejewelled women by Parisian artist Thomas Diego Armonia.

Where: Suntec Singapore Hall, 403-404, Level 4 MRT: City Hall When: Till Sun: 11am - 8pm Admission: Free

Tel: 6825-2183 Info: Produce your identity card for entry.

Log on to www.sijs.com.sg

YACHT BROKERS' BOAT SHOW

Planning to invest in a new or second-hand yacht? You might find your dream boat here, where brands such as Chapparal, Meridien, Grady White and other fine makes are showcased.

Where: Raffles Marina, 10 Tuas West Drive MRT: Boon Lay When: Tomorrow & Sun: 11am - 6pm Admission: Free

Tel: 6861-9000 Info: Viewings can also be made by appointment from Tue to Sept 20. Log on to www.rafflesmarina.com.sg

CATHAY CLASSICS FILM STILLS

This exhibition of original lobby cards featuring scenes from Cathay's Chinese classic films will please film buffs. They include films such as Sun, Moon & Star (1962), Air Hostess (1958) and Fairy, Ghost Vixen (1965).

Where: The Cathay Gallery, 2 Handy Road, 02-16, The Cathay MRT: Dhoby Ghaut When: Till Sept 20: noon - 8pm (Mon - Sat), closed on Sun & public holidays Admission: Free

Info: Log on to www.thecathaygallery.com.sg

MAPPING INVISIBLE CITIES

View Asian cities such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Jakarta, Bangkok and Hanoi through the lenses of German photographer Peter Bialobrzeski and 26 of his Asian counterparts who participated in his workshops in these cities. On display are 63 of their works.

Where: Goethe-Institut Art Gallery, Winsland House II, 05-01, 163 Penang Road MRT: Dhoby Ghaut When: Till Sept 26: 9am - 6.30pm (Mon - Fri), 9am - 6pm (Sat) Admission: Free

Tel: 6735-4555 Info: Log on to www.goethe.de/singapore

storytelling

MEAT OF THE TONGUE: SEDUCTIVE STORIES AT SUPPERTIME

Enjoy a yummy Asian buffet dinner spiced with a storytelling session by Chuah Ai Lin, Denise Bertrand and kamin Ramachandran of the Storytelling Association. The stories touch on flowers, fragrance, rage, wayward journeys and finding your way home.

Where: The Arts House, The Hall, Old Parliament House, 1 Parliament Lane MRT: Raffles Place When: Tomorrow: 7.30pm (dinner), 8.30pm (performance) Admission: $48 Info: For those aged 16 and above. Log on to www.storytellingsingapore.com

SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL: CELEBRATING CREATIVITY

They will awaken your senses, warm your soul and inspire your creativity. Just catch these world-class storytelling performances by international storytellers.

Where: The Arts House, various venues, Old Parliament House, 1 Old Parliament Lane MRT: Raffles Place When: Tue - Sept 9: various times Admission: $27 (adult) & $20 (child aged 7 - 12) Tel: 6332-6919 Info: E-mail tickets@toph.com.sg

SINGAPORE INTERNATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL (SEMINARS)

Want to learn how to tell stories? Pick up some tips from various seminars targeted at parents, educators, librarians, social workers, writers, performing artistes and corporate professionals.

Where: The Arts House, Old Parliament House, 1 Old Parliament Lane MRT: Raffles Place When: Tue - Sept 9: various times Admission: $160 - $450 per seminar

Tel: 6848-8290 Info: Seminars on teaching children with special needs are free but registration is required. Log on to www.bookcouncil.sg/sisf for details

INTERNATIONAL STORTELLERS SHOWCASE

Renowned international storytellers will keep you spellbound with folktales, myths and legends.

Where: The Arts House Chamber, Old Parliament House, 1 Old Parliament Lane MRT: Raffles Place When: Next Fri & Aug 30: 3 & 7.30pm Admission: $25 (adult) $18 (child) Info: Log on to www.bookcouncil.sg/sisf

talks

SEASONS OF WOMANHOOD

Learn more about health issues facing women at this public forum, which features talks in English and Mandarin on pregnancy, breast health and screening menopause, the end of a woman's child-bearing years. It's aimed at promoting Total Women's Wellness. By the Obstetrical and Gynaecological Society of Singapore.

Where: Sheraton Towers, Scotts Road MRT: Newton When: Aug 30: 8.30am - 4pm Admission: $20 Tel: 6295-1383

Info: Lunch is provided and goodie bags will be given to attendees. Register by Sun. Log on to www.ogss.net for details

SMALL ANIMAL CARE (RABBITS AND HAMSTERS)

What does it take to have a bunny or hamster as a pet and how can you ensure that your furry friend is happy? At this talk, you can learn to understand your pet better and how to be the best pet owner that you can be.

Where: Bedok Community Library MRT: Bedok When: Tomorrow: 2.30 - 4pm Admission: Free Tel: 6287-5355

Info: Seats are limited, so sign up early. There will be a question-and-answer session later. Log on to www.spca.org.sg

theatre

OWN TIME OWN TARGET

Find out why Singaporeans love, fear and cannot live without national service at this world premiere of two comedies and a musical. Radio Silence by Laremy Lee is about an officer and his driver who are lost in the jungle, while Full Tank, also by Lee, is about a sergeant and his crew who hijack a tank and go on a joyride. Botak Boys, a musical by Julian Wong, is about the heartache, bravery and rude shocks encountered by a Singaporean and his buddies.

Where: Esplanade Theatre Studio MRT: City Hall When: Today: 8pm, tomorrow & Sun: 3 & 8pm Admission: $33 (free seating) Tel: 6348-5555

TO KILL A MOCKING BIRD

It's a gripping story about the racial prejudices of a community and the dark side of human nature. Directed by Christopher Jacobs, this play is about a rape case involving a young white woman and a black man. The cast includes Yeo Yann Yann, Gerald Chew and Claude Girardi.

Where: Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel, 1 Beach Road MRT:

City Hall When: Today: 8pm, tomorrow: 2pm & 8pm Admission: $41 - $45 Tel: 6348-5555

APOCALYPSE: LIVE!

It's 2058 and Singapore is reeling from a mysterious rain of fire which leaves nearly everyone dead. Can the city be reborn? Part of the OCBC Singapore Theatre Festival 2008 by Wild Rice.

Where: Drama Centre Theatre, National Library Building, Victoria Street MRT: City Hall/Bugis When: Till Sun: 3 & 8pm Admission: $38 - $53 Tel: 6348-5555

BLOOD BINDS

Is blood really thicker than water? Check out two doublebills - Bond-Age & Just Late and Sperm & The Lunar Interviews - which challenge and explore easy assumptions about parenthood. By local women's art group Magdalena Singapore and The Substation. Part of the OCBC Singapore Theatre Festival 2008 by Wild Rice.

Where: Drama Centre Black Box, 5th Level, National Library Building, 100 Victoria Street MRT: City Hall/Bugis When: Today: 8pm and tomorrow: 3pm (Bond-Age & Just Late), tomorrow : 8pm & Sun: 3 & 8pm (Sperm & The Lunar Interviews), Admission: $38 Tel: 6348-5555

APPLES AND LADDERS BY LEMONY S, AUSTRALIA

This intelligent, sophisticated and haunting puppet piece is aimed at inspiring young adults to develop respect for diversity and to feel empathy for one another. It portrays two elderly neighbours living beside each other with an apple tree between their houses, but a gulf of apathy and isolation separates them. Meant for those aged 13 to 16.

Where: Act 3 Theatre, 126 Cairnhill Arts Centre, 126 Cairnhill Road MRT: Newton When: Today & Mon - Thu: 3pm, tomorrow: 11am, Sun: 4pm Admission: $28 Tel: 6348-5555 Info: Those interested in attending acting workshops can call Act 3 International on 6735-9986

GORILLA THEATRE

Go bananas. This non-holds-barred improvisational theatre by The Loose Moose Theatre Company of Canada is virtually created by several members of the audience with each of them taking turns to direct scenes. Have fun by joining the mayhem as 'directors' and 'actors' strut their stuff by singing, dancing and miming to improvise scenes. Meant for those aged 10 to 16.

Where: Alliance Francaise Theatre, 1 Sarkies Road MRT: Newton When: Today, Mon - Thu: 3pm, tomorrow: 4pm, Sun: 11am Admission: $28 Tel: 6348-5555 Info: Those interested in attending acting workshops can call Act 3 International on 6735-9986

PUCCINI'S TURANDOT

Be uplifted by the music of Puccini at this opera about an icy Chinese princess who refuses to marry unless her suitor can solve three riddles. Held by the Singapore Lyric Opera to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Giacomo Puccini's birth (1858-1924). Performed in Italian with English and Chinese surtitles.

Where: Esplanade Theatre MRT: City Hall When: next Fri - Aug 30 & Sept 1 - 3: 8pm Admission: $28 - $133

Tel: 6348-5555

THE WRITE STUFF

Children will be inspired by this production which features crazy characters and madcap adventures. Written by children, the 12 stories include imaginative tales, such as aliens taking over a local school, a journey back in time to meet William Shakespeare, and an emperor who falls in love with a tree fairy. Recommended for children aged seven years and above, it's presented by The Little Company, a division of the Singapore Repertory Theatre, with Singapore Press Holdings (SPH) Foundation as the presenting sponsor.

Where: DBS Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Road MRT: Clarke Quay When: Till Aug 30: various times Admission: $21 - $28

Info: call 6345-8888

Compiled by Magdalene Lum

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