Forum: Fund arts practitioners directly instead of giving culture passes

I refer to the article “SG Culture Pass: $300m for arts and heritage programmes involving Singaporeans and PRs” (Feb 21) and the letter “Convert SG Culture Passes to CDC vouchers for the elderly” (March 18).

Instead of leaving the decision to consumers, it would be good to redirect funds to arts practitioners so they can cover production costs and ensure sustainable growth.

Many artistes and production companies struggle with high rental costs – direct funding can help alleviate financial pressure.

Funding practitioners means productions can be made more affordable, reducing ticket pricing for audiences.

The SG Culture Pass, with a $100 credit, may limit a person to just two experiences if tickets are priced at $50. In contrast, funding production companies and venue rental costs to lower ticket pricing to $15 would make the arts more accessible, encouraging more people to attend and explore cultural events.

More accessible pricing encourages first-time attendees to explore the arts, growing the consumer base organically.

As the SG Culture Pass is available only to Singapore citizens and permanent residents, redirecting funding to theatre practitioners and production houses would make exhibitions, performances and various art forms more affordable and accessible to a wider audience, including tourists, so they can also enjoy and experience the arts scene in Singapore.

Supporting arts groups financially also enables more collaborations both locally and internationally, fostering a richer and diverse arts landscape. A thriving arts ecosystem benefits both creators and audiences, ensuring long-term sustainability.

While the Culture Pass is a positive initiative, prioritising direct arts funding can lead to a more vibrant and inclusive arts scene.

Rei Poh
Associate Dean
School of Theatre for Faculty of Performing Arts
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts