An ink artist, revolutionary, and prominent political figure, He Xiangning journeyed through Singapore, the Philippines, and Malaysia in 1929, carrying with her more than 300 artworks for a landmark series of fundraising exhibitions across the region.
Drawing from rare archival materials that uncover her deep connections with Southeast Asia, this immersive performance reimagines the remarkable journeys she undertook to support educational initiatives established in memory of He Xiangning's late husband, Liao Zhongkai.
Through the Melodies of the Seas brings the spirit and sounds of the region to life through an evocative live performance by multicultural music ensemble Singapore Rojak. Inspired by her travels around Southeast Asia, the performance weaves together beloved classics including "梅花三弄" (Three Variations of Plum Blossoms), "梁祝" (The Butterfly Lovers), "Rasa Sayang", "Katakataka", and more — reimagined through fresh contemporary arrangements. Audiences can also look forward to the premiere of a newly commissioned work, "很想你" (Longing For You), a poignant musical reflection on enduring love told through her perspective.
Blending classical Chinese and Southeast Asian musical traditions in a vibrant celebration of culture, history, and sound, this powerful performance honours He Xiangning's resilience, courage, and fierce independence — inviting audiences on an unforgettable journey across seas, stories, and song.
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When: 27 Jun 2026, 11am & 2pm - Suitable For: Adults, Families, Visitors with accessibility needs, Students and Educators, Young Adults
- Where: City Hall Wing, Level 2, Singapore Courtyard
- Ticket Information: Free admission
About Singapore Rojak
This performance brings together a dynamic multicultural music group comprising:
Mohamad Faizal is a talented, internationally acclaimed guzheng player known for blending diverse musical genres and cultures. His distinctive style has inspired guzheng musicians worldwide, especially in China, influencing arrangements and compositions.
Mohamad Syafeeq @ Chin Yen Chien is an award-winning pipa musician who has represented Singapore at various international arts events including Singapore Festival in Moscow (2018).
Faridah Jamal, known as the Anklung Queen of Singapore, is is a pioneer of angklung teaching and directing with over 42 years of experience. She founded Ethnique Musique Connections in 2004 after teaching at Raffles Girls' Secondary School since 1983.
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Passion is Volcanic: Desire in Southeast Asian Art (R18)
Passion is Volcanic: Desire in Southeast Asian Art explores how desire, eroticism and the body have shaped artistic practices and cultural discourses in the Southeast Asia. Featuring rarely seen artworks from the National Collection alongside key regional loans, the exhibition embraces the power and presence of desire in art and life. Discover bold, provocative expressions that blur the boundaries we keep between the private and public, the intimate and sublime, soft pleasures and hard politics.
He Xiangning: Ink & Intent | 何香凝：画就丹青凭寄意
A leading ink artist and a prominent political figure, He Xiangning played an important role in the development of modern China. Featuring over 50 ink works and archival materials, the exhibition reconnects He Xiangning's artistic activities and significance to Chinese modern art, Singapore, Penang and the region’s art history.