The annual Singapore Night Festival opened last night in the Bras Basah-Bugis precinct with a burst of colour and sound in a rousing drumming performance titled "Spark!" by Worldbeaters Music from the United Kingdom. The four-day music and art extravaganza is celebrating Singapore's jubilee year with its Glitz And Glamour theme. Now in its eighth year, the event organised by the National Museum of Singapore will feature more than 100 events by international and local acts.

Among these will be interactive installations, a street parade and a specially commissioned light projection on the facade of the National Museum. For the first time, there will be a series of workshops and artist talks to give the public an insight into the creative processes and inspirations behind some of the artwork and performances. Half a million people attended last year's event.

Admission to most events is free, although some require tickets. For more information visit: www.nightfest.sg.