SINGAPORE:

The vibrant street performance scene in Singapore is experiencing a renaissance as more locations for busking become available amidst growing interest from performers and audiences alike. One emerging star is street performer Fatt Kew, who has redefined his act as "The One Boy Band" by introducing an innovative holographic element.

Fatt Kew’s latest spectacle features a hologram of Hatsune Miku, a beloved Japanese anime vocaloid character, singing and dancing alongside him while he artfully juggles instruments. With this cutting-edge addition, Fatt Kew has expanded his audience beyond the anime community, captivating young children, seniors, and everyone in between.

“I always strive to intrigue my audience. Technology has allowed me to elevate my performance,” Fatt Kew explained, acknowledging that while he excels at playing instruments, adding a singing element through the hologram has significantly enhanced his appeal.

Anime enthusiasts often track his performances via social media, donning costumes and showing up at venues like Taman Jurong, Suntec, and Paya Lebar Square, creating an electric atmosphere with light sticks and props associated with the hologram character.

The Reality of Busking

Despite the creativity and excitement, Fatt Kew faces practical challenges as a busker. The costs of equipment have risen, with the holographic device alone priced at approximately S$7,000 (US$5,200). The technical complexities of combining different instruments prove demanding, and adverse weather conditions during the rainy season pose a risk to his electronics.

“Transportation is a headache too. I often need to secure a six-seater taxi just to transport all my gear, but seeing the joy on the audience's faces makes it all worthwhile,” he shared.

Similarly, Jonathan Goh, an experienced circus artist and co-chairman of the Buskers’ Association Singapore, noted that new regulations can complicate the performance landscape. For instance, restrictions on sound levels along certain areas like Orchard Road have led to reduced available performance spots.

Support and Growth in the Busking Community

Despite these hurdles, the appeal of busking remains undeterred. The National Arts Council (NAC) reported over 600 applications for busking permits this year—matching the prior year and indicative of the burgeoning interest in street performance. Diverse acts, from ventriloquism to beatboxing, are emerging.

To support aspiring performers, the NAC has implemented several measures, including expanding busking spaces—17 new locations have been introduced, including designated spaces for performers with disabilities. They also extended the validity of performance endorsements to two years, easing the renewal process for experienced buskers.

With more than 350 endorsed acts currently registered, it's evident that interest amongst younger generations is on the rise. “When I started, the demographic leaned toward older performers. Now, we see a flood of youth eager to perform, even young teens,” Goh noted. He believes that this influx infuses fresh creativity and ideas into the busking scene.

The Future of Busking in Singapore

As performers explore new techniques and incorporate technology into their shows, the Singapore busking landscape is set for an exciting transformation. Goh predicts that while the busking scene is still in its infancy, the creativity displayed by performers promises a luminous future.

To culminate a year filled with innovation and talent, the Busker’s Association is hosting a celebratory showcase on December 31 from 5 PM to 11 PM at 111 Somerset, featuring both established and emerging talents. This event is expected to highlight the evolving nature of performance art in Singapore and the growing community of street artists ready to take center stage. Don't miss the chance to witness the magic of live street performances like never before!