Despite a year full of obstacles, Kalaa Utsavam 2020 seeks to bring joy to Singaporeans, even if virtually.
Themed 'Tree of Life', the 19th edition of Kalaa Utsavam – Indian Festival of Arts throws the spotlight on the local Indian arts that have shaped Singapore’s cultural and arts scene in more ways than one.
Musical bands Raaga Rhapsody, The Band Walle and Groove Factory will attempt to keep the festival traditions alive with live performances at the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre this weekend. The Fusion Beats Mentorship programme alumni will cap the ten-day festival that is being streamed online and under strict social distancing protocols this year because of the pandemic.
The event is part of National Arts Council and the Singapore Tourism Board’s pilot trials for larger scale outdoor live performances of up to 100 audience members (two zones of up to 50 audience members each).
It is open to the public and admission is free on a first-come, first-served basis. No tickets will be issued.
Here’s a look at the bands who will be playing:
Raaga Rhapsody
Friday, November 27 (7pm & 8.30pm)
Raaga Rhapsody presents amazing raga-based fusions and medleys and stirring compositions by homegrown Singaporean Indian artists in their third year at Kalaa Utsavam. The performance includes a tribute to the legendary SP Balasubramaniam.
The Band Walle
Saturday, November 28 (7pm & 8.30pm)
The Band Walle are Singapore’s favourite contemporary Bollywood cover band specialising in Hindi pop and Punjabi folk music. They are an eclectic mix of like-minded musicians and friends who bring their unique sounds to the table, exuding an energy that is difficult to resist. Their sets promise to move you and make you move!
Groove Factory
Sunday, November 29 (7pm)
Groove Factory will present originals as well as covers ranging from old school classics to new songs. Through their distinctive and groove-heavy style, the band expresses music in a way that is not just melodic, but emotional, true and life-asserting.
Having been given various opportunities to perform, Groove Factory has begun to establish a niche for itself among music lovers who appreciate funk, reggae and groove music, living up to the motto “give in to the groove”, which they love to see in the crowd!
