AUGUST august 9 9 -- 22, 22, 2013 2013
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trailer trash
It’s summer time, which can only mean one thing. It’s silly sequel season! Now’s the time when Hollywood crank out the latest instalments of their biggest franchises. If it’s not Thor 2, it’s the latest Wolverine. It’s Red 2 and Fast and Furious 6. It’s Iron Man 3, Despicable Me 2, Kick-Ass 2, and the new Riddick. (Yes, apparently they’re still making those.) So what have the studios here been working on? Mark your calendars, book those seats and start saving for the popcorn now...
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Cover Story chain reaction: hot picks from cool folks
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Back to BorderS One for the intellectual crowd, this documentary... documenting the return of one of Singapore’s best-loved bookstores after its grisly demise in 2011 will be showing on a very limited run out in Jurong. I‑S Magazine is published 24 times a year by Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd., 211 Henderson Road, #14‑03, Singapore 159552. Tel: 65‑6323‑2512 Fax: 65‑6323‑2779. Copyright ©2013 Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. The title “I‑S Magazine,” its associated logos or devices, and the content of I‑S Magazine are the property of Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is strictly prohibited. I‑S Magazine may not be distributed without the express written consent of Asia City Publishing Pte Ltd. Contact the Publisher for ad rates and specifications. All advertising in I‑S Magazine must comply with the Publisher’s terms of business, copies of which are available upon request. Printed by KHL Printing Co. Pte. Ltd., 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968. ISSN 0218‑8872 MCI (P) 136/12/2012
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Singapore 48 The world’s longest running lightweight action farce is back! Now with the same parade, the same air display and the same traffic jams as all other recent installments. Only Woody Allen has got away with releasing the same work dressed up as something new more often.
Unemployment 2.1 The government’s experiment in black comedy continues. After the tepid response to 1.8 in December, they raised the stakes with 1.9 in March. Now, as the rate rises and the pressure increases, the only question is can anyone save them from their own press conferences? the haze 2 From Indonesia’s foremost noir director, and the team that brought you the original haze, comes the year’s most terrifying film. Forget hiding behind the couch, you’ll be hiding in your homes from this one.
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UP FRONT Giveaways
The gig’s on us
Quote of the Week
Be Good The Perfect Serve
This week, we’re giving away 2 pairs of tickets to A Rocket To The Moon’s last show in Singapore on Tuesday, 27 Aug at TAB (worth $124 per pair).
Participants in Servathon 2013, an endurance event promoting active volunteerism, can choose to push their boundaries with the 10-Hour race or the 21-Hour race taking place September 6. In the former, you will source for necessities and daily supplies to be distributed into 10,000 “Love bags” whereas the latter will have you distributing the stuff to different homes and centers around Singapore. The 10-Hour Race will cost $15 while the 21-hour edition costs $20. For more information and to register, visit www.citycare.org.sg/servathon/.
To enter, go to is-magazine. com/giveaways, register and tell us why you deserve to win.
“You have to be a prostitute once in a while.” - AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes, speaking at a conference in Singapore, about sponsoring Man United despite him hating the club.
OB Index Charting the ups and downs of Singapore's openness, tolerance and freedom of expression. JuLY
Thermometer Google Nexus 7 Wireless charging. Catch up, Apple.
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Cabs Two more models on the road— flag down rates are still rising.
Sex survey Singaporeans doing it way below the regional average. What’s new?
Singapore Happy 48th birthday, you little red dot.
The Bookie
Cost of living Number 2 in a survey of 214 cities. We’ll be number one in no time.
NOT
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Concerned netizens questioned the efficiency of the government’s methods of handling the haze crisis, especially over the provision of N95 masks and the accuracy of pollutant standards index (PSI) readings. However, certain official channels called for them to pipe down, with a Straits Times columnist describing it as “engaging in destructive rhetoric”. Even former nominated Member of Parliament Calvin Cheng stated that “questioning the government in times of crisis is not only disturbing but also very dangerous.”
XkCd www.xkcd.com Social Media
Royal Baby Prince George of Cambridge
Royal Flush Kings and queens
Game of thrones
Game of poker
Third in line
Highest ranking
New beginnings
Endgame
The odds: Royal Flush 5:1. We prefer a winning streak.
Singapore Sparks Celebrating the city’s entrepreneurs, start-ups and innovative thinkers
Joel Leong is the founder of Haystakt (www.haystakt.com), a Singapore-based designers’ marketplace that hawks oneof-a-kind decoratives, men and women’s fashion, as well as tech paraphernalia. How do you meet your makers? We started out meeting local designers and artisans we personally liked. It was a lot of legwork, but it was fun to travel to different cities and meet good folks like Pow (timotrunks.com) in Bangkok and Daisuke (1012.stores. jp) in Tokyo. From then on, it was a game of referring and networking.
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What helps you decide on the makers to approach? People go to Haystakt to find cool products with a story, so we look for uniquely handcrafted items made in small-batch or limited edition productions with interesting concepts. We also look for people who have promising ideas or unique backgrounds because we’re as interested in the people as we are in their products. Where can we find the makers and shakers in Singapore? Most of them are buried in their craft, so you’ll find them in their studios or workshops within the industrial estates of Ayer Rajah, Bedok or Kallang.
Why did the idea of a brick and mortar store not appeal to you? Our goal is to offer the most comprehensive selection of global maker products in terms of both range and depth, more so that you could ever offer in a physical space. For us, it was also about finding the right format to articulate makers’ stories and to allow them to cross geographical boundaries and connect with people all over the world.
solve both sides of the equation?” and “what will the market be like 10 years from now?”.
How would you define a successful e-commerce business? In a saturated market, it’s about delivering commerce with value. To do that, we constantly ask ourselves questions like “do you
Hidayah Salamat
Where would you go if you could work remotely from anywhere in the world? Right now it would be Singapore— both the design and startup communities are booming and there’s a new generation of makers waiting to be discovered. More importantly, there’s family, great parks, libraries and free WiFi.
CALENDAR Essential Events August 9 - August 23 DO This
DON’T Miss
Nation Pride Cool local DJs like Brendon P, Suren and Ramesh reclaim the dancefloors at KU DE TA, Kyo and Catalunya for some post-NDP action. Aug 9-10, various times. See National Day Parties, page 34, for more details.
SEE this
Sargeant Major Park Life Watch rare documentary Everything or Nothing: The Untold Story of 007 with Champagne and wine on hand at Films at the Fort. Life is good. Aug 22-25, 7:30pm. Fort Canning Green. See Film, page 35.
Move over, Jamie Oliver. Celeb chef Mark Sargeant’s gastrobar Oxwell & Co.’s bar is officially open, and all you need to know are these three words: cocktails in kegs. They even make drinks with herbs grown on their own rooftop gardens, and spices—get this—foraged locally from the Ann Siang area. If you’re not already marking it in your sked right now, we can’t be friends. (Oh, and watch out for our interview with Sargeant in an upcoming issue.) 5 Ann Siang Hill, 9296-4704, www. oxwellandco.com.
CALENDAR SATURDAY, AUGUST 10 Detox from all that national selfpromotion at one-weekend-only exhibition PASSPORTS: Through the Red Dot into Other Worlds, where artists here mark National Day by looking outward to foreign lands or fantasy worlds. Through Aug 11, 3-9pm. Unit 11, Lorong 24A Geylang. SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 Two of our favorite flea giants—Zouk and Public Garden—team up for this bumper edition of Zouk Flea & Easy. This collab sees both the main room and Phuture stuffed full of bargains and threads by local designers like The Cult of Nine and Crawford & Sons. 2-7pm. Zouk. See Sales & Fairs, page 32. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 14 Sing-along to popular tunes like “Have a Nice Day” at Stereophonics’ much-anticipated concert at Fort Canning Park. 8pm. See Stage, page 28. THURSDAY, AUGUST 15 Launch party of new café and roaster Common Man Coffee Roasters, the much anticipated collab between 40 Hands’ Harry Grover and Aussie roaster 5 Senses on the very buzzing Martin Road. 7pm. #01-00, 22 Martin Rd., www.
OPEN STORE commonmancoffeeroasters.com. Invite-only. FRIDAY, AUGUST 16 Satisfy your hunger pangs at Midnight Brunch at The Green Door. 10pm. See Food & Drink, page 29.
THURSDAY, AUGUST 22 Not too late to join in the recently launched Puma Running Club, which meets every Thursday at the Puma store in Marina Square. All you need to do is show up: There’ll be Puma running shoes for rent, while the training sessions and group runs are free. 7:15pm. #02-153/154 Marina Square, 6 Raffles Blvd., 6338-7705, www. facebook.com/ pumasingapore.
MONDAY, AUGUST 19 First day of fortnight-long treasure hunt Liberty Hunt 2013. Sign up on www.libertyhunt.com. sg and you’ll receive the first of 12 clues to get you started on your trail Puma Running FRIDAY, AUGUST 23 Club across various Opening night of Ai museums and Weiwei – Baby Formula. heritage sites Everyone (and their mothers) across Singapore. will be at this solo installation The winner gets by the enfant terrible of Chinese a cool $50,000 contemporary art, where he cash prize. Just uses close to 2,000 cans of infant saying. Through Aug formula to form a map of China. Gillman Barracks 31. $35. 7pm. Michael Janssen Gallery, Artwalk Gillman Barracks. Invite-only. See WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 21 Art, page 28. Join the curators (and the cool team from I-S) at Gillman Barracks But if performance art is more your Artwalk for the inside scoop on thing, head to the latest edition the works on show at this art of the Singapore Night Festival, cluster. Free drinks too. Sign up at featuring a wide range of music, www.is-magazine.com/artwalk, dance, installation art and aerial but hurry—spaces are limited. performances. 7pm. Through Aug Gillman Barracks, 9 Lock Rd., www. 24, 30-31. Bras Basah Precinct. Free. gillmanbarracks.com. See Stuff, page 30. Oh, and use their ad on page 19 for money off!
Ding Dong ($19), to heartier plates such as saltwater barramundi with Malay curry ($22) and fried sushi rice with pickled cucumber and sakura ebi ($16), which will really fill you up. There’s also a Feed Us menu (from $59) featuring an ever changing range of specialties in sharing portions.
The buzz: The newest project by Cynthia Chua of the Spa Esprit group and chef Ryan Clift of Tippling Club fame, this Southeast Asian small plates joint has a cool location in a three-story refurbished shophouse on Ann Siang Road. The vibe: Part of the hipster Asian trend (think Chopsuey Cafe and LE Restaurant & Asian Tapas Bar — see page 15), the staff dress in traditional garb with Chinese knot buttons, the decor incorporates plenty of Asian motifs and pink light fills the space—it feels like a retro ‘70s discotheque. The food: Modern bites span nibbles like Vietnamese Scotch eggs ($16)—flavored with laksa leaves—and smoked pork bao
The drinks: A variety of drinks accompany each course of the meal. Pre-dinner, go for an aperitif such as Atas At The Market ($18)—vanilla spirit, white wine, grapes and mint—then, move on to spicy cocktails like the Golden Mile ($17), a mix of Thai herb-infused vodka, blue ginger gomme, citrus and chilli oil, which are designed to complement Asian recipes. The Ca Phe Sua Da #2 ($21)—Vietnamese coffee, VSOP cognac, amaro and agave nectar—is a potent and effective digestif. There’s also red and white wine on tap (from $9). Why you’ll be back: At the heart of the CBD, it’s the perfect after work hangout. Plus, there aren’t many places in the area to get Asian food of this caliber alongside such fun yet ambitious drinks. Chin Hui Wen
23 Ann Siang Rd., 6557-0189, www.dingdong.com.sg. Open Mon-Sat 6pm-midnight.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE
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COVER STORY DINING
Frédéric Colin
Chef owner at Brasserie Gavroche and Café & Bar Gavroche (66 Tras St., 62258266, brasseriegavroche.com) “I admire Travis Masiero from Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House (20 Gemmill Lane, 6221-4468, lukes.com. sg)—he loves food and is always on the lookout for the best product. It’s great that he imports seafood from his own town and keeps his cooking very simple to bring out true flavors.”
ch a i n n i e r act o Local tastemakers’ advice snowballs into a flurry of dining, style, fitness and design picks. By Hidayah Salamat
Travis Masiero
Chef and owner of Luke’s Oyster Bar & Chop House “One of my favorite chefs is Andres Lara of Pollen (#01-09 Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 66049988, pollen.com.sg). He's in my opinion the best pastry chef working in the city today. His desserts and chocolates are first class—creative, refined and delicious."
stefan kromat
Owner of Vom Fass "We had a family event at the TungLok XiHe Peking Duck (#01-23/26 The Grandstand, 200 Turf Club Rd., 6466-3363, tunglok-xihe. com) restaurant and thought every dish had been cooked to perfection, including the peking duck, which we couldn't stop eating.Must be the apple wood they use." #04-25 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6509-8409, vomfass.com.
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Andres Lara
Executive pastry chef at Pollen For my cooking essentials, I go to places like Classic Fine Foods, Culina and Vom Fass (#04-25 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6509-8409, vomfass. com), which has a fantastic range of vinegars.
FITNESS
Ian Tan
Co-founder of Ritual (#03-01, 11 North Canal Rd., 6536-7291, ritual.sg) “I recently started hanging out at the new Yoga Movement (#02-01, 21 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 81391296, yogamovement.com. sg) studio in Tanjong Pagar. Alicia Pan, who owns the studio, trains at Ritual and asked me to try it out. I’ve been wanting to pick up yoga for months now, so the timing was perfect. It’ll help me get better at weight lifting and improve my flexibility."
Alicia Pan
Owner of Yoga Movement “I like Juggernaut Fight Club (50 Boat Quay, 6535-2501, juggernautfightclub.com) because as a fight gym, they don’t go light on women. We get equal treatment as the men. Is it weird that I like that?”
Arvind Lalwani
Head boxing coach at Juggernaut Fight Club “Wrestling is a good core sport—physically demanding, but fun. The lessons conducted by the Wrestling Federation of Singapore (6280-4748, singaporewrestling.com) are a good way to start and are taught by experienced national wrestlers.”
Jimmy taenaka
Founder of Wrestling Federation of Singapore "I like True Fitness (#03-14 Great World City Mall, 1 Kim Seng Promenade, 62359622, truefitness.com.sg) because the space is clean and never overcrowded. Their outlets are also very accessible."
» FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE
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COVER STORY Men’s Fashion Danny Tan
Owner of Supplies & Co. “I like clothes that are simple and wellmade, which is why I usually shop at F.I.L (#01-33 Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd., 6337-9390).
Has Sidik
Alvin Lim
Artistic director at W Singapore Sentosa Cove (21 Ocean Way, 6808-7288, wsingaporesentosacove.com)
Owner of Ambush
“I like Ambush (#03-14 Mandarin Gallery, 333A Orchard Rd., 6836-7667, ambushstore. com). It’s a multi-label store that’s got a fantastic collection of sneakers and caps.”
“The new Supplies & Co (#03-08 Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd., 6337-4763, suppliesandco.com) is a beautiful store with amazing products.”
Earn Chen
Founder of F.I.L “I don’t shop outside of Surrender (#02-31 Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd., 6733-2130, surrendurous.com).”
WOMEN’s Fashion Ginette Chittick
Programme manager at LASALLE School of the Arts (LASALLE College of the Arts: 1 McNally St., 6496-5000, lasalle.edu.sg ) “Some of my favorite local labels are owned by friends. I love Stolen by Elyn Wong and bags by Ling Wu (lingwu. sg). Yuki Mitsuyasu makes really clever jewelry that I love. She designed Shawn and my wedding rings!
Ling Wu
Bag designer
Daniela Monasterios Tan Creative director at Mash-Up
Paul Khor
“Actually‘s (#04-06, 313@Somerset, 313 Orchard Rd., 6336-7298, actually.com.sg) full of fun labels and always have surprising DIY elements in their visual display.”
“There are a few local labels that I like and one of them is In Good Company stocked at Front Row, but the most notable of all is Mash-Up (mashupcollective.com), which has heaps of potential.”
Founder of Actually “Both the Rockstar by Soon Lee (#03-08 Cathay Cineleisure, 8 Grange Rd., 6836-8201; 22 Orchard Rd., 6883-2309, rockstar. com.sg) outlets stock great brands like Pointer and Loreak Mendian, and offer a very relaxing and welcoming atmosphere that keeps me coming back.”
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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013
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COVER STORY Home & Design Zin Cattell
Owner of Menswear Menswear (menswearmenswear.com) “I’m really big on furniture and go to Journey East (#03-02 Tan Boon Liat, 315 Outram Rd., 6473-1393, journeyeast. com) for amazing, one-of-a-kind art deco and mid century pieces. Also, I love the work by Cain Lim of The Affiniti—it’s very dynamic. He’s definitely one to watch!”
Coming soon to your Android Phone
Anita Sam
Director at Journey East “One of the more interesting stores within our vicinity is Strangelets (7 Yong Siak St., 6222-1456, strangelets. sg)—as their name suggests, you can find loads of fun and quirky accessories for the home there."
Schirin Taraz-Breinholt Partner at Strangelets
“I think Tong Mern Sern (51 Craig Rd., 6734-0761, tmsantiques.com) is great! You’ve got to love a guy whose motto is, “We buy junk and sell antiques, some fools buy some fools sell”. Also, you could probably spend an entire month in the shops discovering stuff you’ve never seen before.”
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Keng Ah Wong
Owner of Tong Mern Sern Antiques Arts & Crafts “Changi Junk Store (125 Joo Chiat Rd., 9635-9425) is a treasure trove of art deco and retro pieces, many of which were lovingly restored by owner Haji Basman himself.”
I-SMAG
travel
Kathmandu Calling High-tea in a landscaped garden, a daytrip to a town lost in time, colonial-style boutiques, a mystical stupa and much more awaits in the Nepali capital. By Gregoire Glachant
Boudhanath Stupa
Kathmandu Durbar Square Boudhanath Stupa This may be the really obvious sight in the list, but it’s also no disappointment. This is the former site of the Royal Palace, hence the spectacular, fort-like building at its center. But it’s also dotted with stupas that soar several stories into the sky. It remains the historic heart of the capital and the home of the Kumari, Nepal’s living goddess. The whole area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and foreigners must pay to get in: RS750 ($10). Ganga Path, Kathmandu, +977 1425-6909.
Garden of Dreams Garden of Dreams
This neo-classical garden was created in the early 1920s. Its architecture and landscaping is in the Edwardian style and sees pergolas, balustrades, pavilions and verandas surround a maze of alleys and ponds. There are a couple of restaurants inside, but it’s also the perfect spot to sip a cup of milk tea. There’s a RS200 ($2.70) entrance fee. Kaiser Mahal, Tridevi Marg, +977 1442-5340, www. gardenofdreams.org.np.
Pilgrims Book House
Kathmandu Durbar Square
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Located in the backpacker district, Kathmandu’s answer to Khao San, this bookshop gives you the chance to check out where hippies in the 70s were opening their chakras. Pop inside and buy a copy of First Light for some bedtime reading, a guide to all the divine beings gracing Nepali temple walls, or some rare, out-of-print photography books on the region. Thamel, JP Road, +977 1470-0942.
Probably Kathmandu’s most recognizable site is this massive white stupa topped with a tall central spire strewn with prayer flags. But its most striking feature, apart from its sheer size, are the four hypnotic eyes painted onto it. A very sacred site, it attracts pilgrims, local devotees and monks who come to pray at its foot or spin its prayer wheels. Entrance is RS150 ($2). The area is surrounded by numerous temples and you’re just a short walk away from Pashupatinath, Nepal’s most important Hindu temple: the pagoda sits on the Bagmati River, and you’ll be able to spot its sculpted rafters, gilded roof, and silver-plated gates from the outside—but non-Hindus are unfortunately not allowed in. Boudha, Kathmandu, www.boudhanath.com.
Bhaktapur Durban Square
A day trip to this small medieval-like town, about a 10km taxi ride from Kathmandu, is considered a must for any visitor to the capital. It shares many of the features of Kathmandu’s Durbar Square: tiered temples, a royal palace and an art museum. As at Durbar Square, cars are forbidden inside the town’s walls, and being so far from the hustle and bustle, the atmosphere is noticeably more relaxed. Entry is RS1,100 ($14.60). Khauma Tol, Bhaktapur, +977 1425-6909.
Baber Mahal Revisited
For a little bit of shopping—and to satisfy your Western food cravings—Baber Mahal (in Maitighar) is a lovely shopping galleria
set in a cowshed and guard house of a historic Rana palace. There, you can browse jewelry and fashion boutiques before having a crepe at restaurant Chez Caroline (+977 1426-3070). Singha Durbar, Kathmandu, www.babermahal-revisited.com.
Patan’s Durbar Square
Patan is across the Bagmati River from Kathmandu, but is still only a short taxi drive away. Its central square is another architectural marvel, with temples, idols, fountains and surrounding traditional homes. Make sure you explore the small streets around the square, too. There are fewer tourists and even more devotees practicing their rituals. Entrance costs RS200 ($2.70). Mangal Bazaar, Patan.
Narayanhity Palace Museum
Built in the 70s by American architect Benjamin Polk, it was long home to the Nepali Royal Family, even after the 2001 massacre when the heir to the throne killed nine members of the family and himself. Three years after the abolition of the monarchy in 2006, it was made into a museum, where you can see the incredibly chintzy and kitsch tastes of the royals in all their bizarre splendor. Entry goes for RS500 ($6.60). Durbar Marg, Kathmandu. n
voluNtouRISM Restoration Works International Outside of Kathmandu, the obvious thing to do is trek the couple of hundred kilometers of the Anapurna trail. However inspiring, trekking with sherpas isn’t exactly going to put you in touch with how Nepalis really live in the mountains, though. For something both more authentic and less daunting physically, we highly recommend a bit of voluntourism with Restoration Works International (www.restorationworksinternational.org), which offers a decent dose of trekking, cultural conservation and plenty of opportunities to eat, work and hang out with Nepalis.
WhAt IS It? Restoration Works International is an NGO that fixes up damaged cultural sites, such as temples or old homes. They work with the local population, local architectural experts and foreign volunteers. Assisting in the restoration makes for an unforgettable experience for the volunteers and also brings tourism dollars to attract the community. Once completed, the restored sites continue to attract visitors due to their cultural value, and encourage preservation of the community’s heritage.
in Nepal is at Chhairo, a tiny village in the mountainous Lower Mustang region of Nepal. The trip alone is worth it, as you soar up narrow valleys in tiny airplanes, with a stopover in the lovely lakeside town of Pokhara. At Chhairo, you’ll stay in a homey little guesthouse. Days are spent either trekking to nearby villages, or actually getting your hands dirty fixing up the local temple. Work can range from plastering walls to more delicate tasks like cleaning ancient relics. (And yes, you do get to pick.) With an expert guide and the temple’s lama at your side, you’ll get the inside track on all the surrounding sites, witness rare religious ceremonies, share your Nepali co-workers’ food and partake in many other such experiences trekkers rarely get exposed to.
hoW Much IS It? WhEN to Go? Two trips are planned for this fall, Oct 7-18 and Oct 21-Nov 1. It’s US$2,950 (around $3,733 per person), including flights from Kathmandu (with a night in Pokhara, as there are no direct flights), meals for all 12 days, the guesthouse and extra tours. Given prices for guides and trekking permits in Nepal, this is a pretty reasonable way to spend 12 days in the mountains.
WhAt do voluNtEERS do? Restoration Works International’s project
Essentials StAy hotel tibet. This charming little hotel has a lobby that is entirely carved and painted in the traditional Tibetan style. Rooms are clean and cozy; the service—overseen by an authoritative auntie—is attentive. From US$64 ($81). Lazimpath, Kathmandu, +977 1442-9085, www.hotel-tibet. com.np. dwarika. This amazing five-star accommodation has luxurious rooms with packages starting from US$525 ($664). Battisputali, Kathmandu, +977 1447-9488, www.dwarikas.com GEttING thERE Flights start at $844 for a round-trip ticket on SilkAir (www.silkair.com).
Kathmandu Durbar Square
GEttING ARouNd Taxis are the easiest option and are relatively inexpensive at RS300-500 ($4-6.60) if you’re prepared to bargain hard. vISAS Although you can pay on arrival, you’ll need a passport-sized picture and a photocopy of your passport. Details at www. nepalembassybangkok.com (the nearest Nepali mission to Singapore). Fees from B875 ($11.62) for 15 days. ExchANGE RAtE $1 = 75 Nepalese Rupee (RS)
Young monks at the Chairro Gompa
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travel Send your travel news and promotions to travel@asia-city.com.sg
ESCAPE ROUTES
with Chin Hui Wen
W Singapore Sentosa Cove
C
M
Y
CM
MY
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Secret Retreats’
Ovolo Melbourne
THAIL AND & L AOS
starting at JPY5,500 ($70). Japan Airlines (www.jal.co.jp) flies from singapore to Okayama (a good base to explore the seto Inland sea) via tokyo for $948 return. Find out more at setouchi-artfest.jp.
CMY
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River Deep
Boutique hotel group Secret Retreats’ new Mystic Mekong Exclusive Escape package—from October 19-26, from us$3,300 (s$4,141)—sounds like a real cultural experience. the itinerary starts in historic Old Bangkok, and then moves on to the hills in northern Laos, to visit the local Hmong tribes. throughout the trip, guests will be put up at secret Retreats hotels such as the Cabochon Bangkok (Walpole Building, 14/29 sukhumvit, +66 2 2592-8713, www. cabochonhotel.com). Read more at www.secret-retreats.com AUSTR ALIA
Horsing Around
Australia’s foremost horse racing event the Melbourne Cup Carnival is set for November 5. Now in its 153rd year, the chi-chi competition always includes plenty of Champagne, glam outfits and exciting races. While in town, stay at the Ovolo Melbourne (19 Little Bourke st., +85 2 2165-1000, www.ovologroup. com), a quirky boutique hotel with 43 rooms (from Au$195 ($244)). Read more at melbournecup.com. JAPAN
Island Life
the summer session of arts fiesta Setouchi Triennale 2013 will run through september 1, including shows across the 12 Japanese islands in the seto Inland sea, plus takamatsu and uno. this edition features installations by respected Nippon artists such as tadao Ando, Chiharu shiota, seizo tashima and Ryo Wakabayashi. show tickets cost JPY4,500 ($57). there aren’t many five star mega projects in the area, so while at the seto Islands, stay at Uno Slope House (3-4-3-2 Chikko, tamano, Okayama, unoslopehouse. com), a charming B&B with rates
A SIAWIDE
Star Struck starwood Hotels & Resorts’ new Triple Benefits discount program is designed for Starwood Preferred Guest program (free to join) members and the deal allows folks to get three benefits—a 15-30% discount on dining, plus two other perks (think 15% off spa treatments or a free wine and cheese platter)—at starwood’s 336 restaurants worldwide through October 1. Members can also collect hotel loyalty points right here in singapore at joints like The Kitchen Table (W singapore sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way (sentosa Cove), 68087268). get the full details at www. starwoodhotels.com/preferredguest. Throughout August subscribers to our travel newsletter (see below) can win some exclusive prizes (including a three night stay at luxe resort The Andaman in Langkawi), courtesy of Starwood Preferred Guest. Sign up for your chance to win.
VIETNA M
Aman To That Looking for a serene getaway? Luxury resort group Aman’s new Vietnam property Amano’i (PO Box 10, Phan Rang City, Ninh thuan Province)—set to launch in september—sounds like just the ticket. the project, which derives its name from the sanskrit words for “peace” and “place”, will have 31 pavilions and five villas, all with clear views of Vinh Hy Bay. On-site, there’ll also be an Aman spa as well as a beach club. get the full details at www.amanresorts.com.
Looking to get away? Sign up at www.is-magazine.com/user/register#newsletter to get Escape Routes delivered to your mailbox every Tuesday.
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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, August 9, 2013
island
STYLE + LIVING + DINING | Get More out of SinGapore
Leg up A big highlight of Suntec City Mall’s near complete revamp is new entry LÈ restaurant and asian tapas Bar (#02-314 Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre, Suntec City Mall, 3 Temasek Blvd., 6338-8775, www.paradisegroup.com.sg), now open serving Asianinspired small plates like Alaskan crab shooters (from $10) and cream of bak kut teh ($12), plus fresh cocktails such as Cherry for the Geisha ($22), comprising sake, cherry liqueur and prosecco.
style In the Red Pedal in style with this WeMuG x trip Bicycle Backpack ($169). It might be from two Hong Kong labels, but it comes in a bright singaporean red. Made with durable and water-repellent wax-coated canvas and finished with classic leather strips that promise to look better with age, it also comes with two side pockets (one for your water bottle) and a detachable pouch to store your small items. Available at Cumulus, #02-14 Wheelock Place, 501 Orchard Rd., 6733-3486, www.cumulus.sg.
eyewear Heart of gloss
Aerosmith’s Joe Perry swears by it, yet most of us haven’t even heard of local eyewear brand Glossi. Designed in singapore but put together in Europe, these funky babies are made from flexible nylon compound and come with stretchable temple for longer durability. Like its namesake, all frames come with a glossy finishing in hues of gold, pink and silver. From $280 at t.o.t ‑ the optique of tomorrow, #03-43 Jem, 50 Jurong gateway Rd., 62688967, www.facebook.com/theoptiqueoftomorrow.
fitness On the upside
One of our favorite new workout joints upside Motion has opened a newer, more accessible outlet around City Hall (no more trekking to Bukit timah); plus it’s bigger too. At over 3,000 sq. ft., the latest branch located inside a cool art-deco shophouse offers all their popular Pilates, Xtend Barre, Yoga and YogaFly classes ($40 per drop-in session, $55 for a one-week trial). Check in at #02-03, 36 Armenian st., 6636-6859, www.upsidemotion.com. i‑S MaGaZine FRIDAY, August 9, 2013
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OPEN STORE
Sultans of Shave
SPORT
The buzz: Yet another men’s only grooming parlor, but this new addition is super snazzy, located in a hip shophouse building that is also home to Ritual and The Mad Men Attic Bar. The vibe: Barber chairs aren’t the first things you’ll see in the polished, industrial-fitted space. Instead, it’s a swanky little bar (which, of course, doubles as a reception), complete with gentlemanly drinks on the shelves, and a bespoke, leather-clad lounge area to replicate that old barbershop community feel. The goods: No extra fluff stuff, just good ol’ wet shave and haircuts—though all boast a disciplined, true-to-tradition approach that comes with quite the price (a basic shave is $40 while a haircut starts from $48). If you need a skin fix, opt for the Sultan’s Shave ($60), which throws in a mini facial to keep skin fresh and clean. You can also buy a range of grooming products from labels including Baxter of California, Pankhurst and American Crew. Why you’ll be back: Its accessible location near Boat Quay is great if you train at Ritual (a post-gym shave sounds pretty good) or need some sprucing up before hitting the bars in the area. Also, you can hang out with the guys over drinks after some pampering (word is they’ll close late on such occasions). Crystal Lee #02-01, 11 North Canal Rd., www.sultansofshave.com. Open Mon-Fri 10:30am-9pm; Sat 11am-6pm.
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ESPZEN’s Soccer School
Masters Class Four ways to become a better ballplayer, whatever your age. By Khairul Amri
I
t’s never too late to get better at the sport you love. So if you’ve always wished you could land that serve or pull off the perfect football feint, book yourself in for a training session with these adult-training specialists.
Basketball Bernard Williams is Singapore’s first and only pro coach who’s played in a US basketball league. He helms LJE Sports (#21-07 International Plaza, 10 Anson Rd., 9437-6252, www.ljesports.com) which specializes in customized basketball training programs ($90-$125/hr) that consist of everything from dribbling to shooting and fitness. Training time depends on the shape you’re in, but focuses heavily on fitness. Williams suggests twice-a-week sessions in the morning or afternoon for at least half a year to get you in competitive shape.
Football With the English Premier League in its offseason, you need something else soccerrelated to occupy yourself. Get into shape with a weekly adult specific training session for men and women’s football training ($30 for a two hour session every Tuesday from 9pm-11pm) conducted by ESPZEN Soccer School (Centaurs Pitch, Turf City, 200 Turf Club Rd., 6325-9386, www.facebook.com/
EspzenSoccerSchoolAdults). Here you have programs that focus on small-sided games and drills to improve your touch and sense of the game. Lee Taylor from ESPZEN says that “current fitness is not an issue” as their trainings are structured to be individual focused. The training will give “every player hundreds of touches of the ball during each session” to make them “a better footballer.”
Tennis If Andy Murray’s win at Wimbledon has inspired you to pick up tennis, go to Savitar (#03-01, 78 LJE Sports Circular Rd., 6100-8367, www.savitar. com.sg). They provide introductory lessons ($75-$85/hr, 7pm-8:30pm on Monday and Tuesday) called Discover Tennis that range from a one-on-one lesson to group lessons of six block sessions, each lasting 90mins. There also offer a new cardio-centric program called Tennis Fit, which involves rapid drills and workouts on the court is able for both beginners and experienced players. The lessons are offered at four different locations, including Willow Stream Spa Tennis Facility (Fairmont
Singapore Hotel, 80 Bras Basah Rd., 63397777, www.fairmont.com/singapore)
Squash Let the coaches from the Singapore Squash Academy (Saint Wilfrid Squash & Tennis Centre, 3 St. Wilfred Rd., 9146-6824, www. ssacademy.com.sg) show you how to make the most of a small space in their individual training sessions ($50/hr). They’ll guide you on basic strokes and movement in the court to give you that much-needed edge in your game. On top of that, you can train at a location of your choice. Programs cater to both recreational and competitive players. n
Savitar
STYLE NOTES
With Crystal Lee
prosecco and Sapporo draft at $60++ from noon to 5pm, anyone?), the multiconcept space will also play host to different vendors including Tsura, Carrie K and Supermama. “The crowd will be able to mingle, meet interesting people and have a few drinks while they graze at a relaxed pace,” says organizer Suraj Melwani. Mark your calendars for the UTs next edition on Aug 25, noon to 6pm.
McQueen
Sunday Best The good folks at PACT (#02-16 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6884-7560 (Kilo), www.visitpact.com) are injecting more fun to weekend brunches with the launch of new pop-up market Sunday in the City, which will happen every last Sunday of the month. Besides having a DJ take the decks and putting out some awesome dining and drink deals at Kilo (free-flow CCP DAY ISmag 1.0p_HR.pdf
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All Hail the Queen On the topic of pop-ups, Alexander McQueen’s diffusion line McQ has opened a pop-up store-within-a-store at Club 21b (#01-07 Forum The Shopping Mall, 583 Orchard Rd., 6304-1459, www. club21global.com/sg) through Aug 25. On sale is the new Fall/Winter collection and shoppers receive a limited edition
McQ canvas shopping bag with any purchase. Spend $1,200 nett at the store to get an exclusive McQ necklace.
National Pride Dressing up for Singapore’s 48th birthday—in red and white, no less—certainly feels cheesy, but Uniqlo’s latest collection of UTs, shirts and dresses (no “We Love SG” in sight!) sure looks good. Pull off a coolly patriotic look with the Uniqlo x Bearbrick graphic tee ($24.90), the striped short-sleeved shirt ($34.90), or the Uniqlo x Cabbages & Roses tee ($24.90). Available in limited stocks at all Uniqlo outlets including #B2-38/#B3-51 ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, 6509-1073, www. uniqlo.com.
Join the Club Club Monaco is finally rolling out its menswear line in Singapore for Autumn Winter, and you can expect a ruggedmeets-refined collection that
will work for most—think sharp, tailored pieces as well as easy-to-wear utilitarian outfits ($60 upwards). Coinciding with its menswear debut, the label has moved to a bigger boutique, which has the same modern-elegant aesthetic of its former unit, at Ngee Ann City (#B1-41/47/48 Takashimaya S.C., Ngee Ann City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6732-1767, www.clubmonaco. com) to accommodate the expanded range of goods.
High Society
Multi-label boutique The Society of Black Sheep (#B1-64 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7223, www.societyofblacksheep.com) is holding its annual sale from Aug 8-31, so start making room in your wardrobe. Past seasons stock from labels including Handwritten, B Store, Chorux and Atalanta Weller are going at up to 70% off, while new collections are having a 10% discount. Even better, bag three sale Club Monaco items and get an additional 10% off your total bill. clee@asia-city.com.sg
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE
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wELLNESS
Relax Nation
Pamper yourself over National Day weekend with these exclusive scarlet-themed spa treatments. By Hidayah Salamat
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Classic Rejuvenation
Red Rose Bath
The highest Banyan Tree Spa outlet in the world, with its Tree of Life inspired décor of bamboo and dark earth tones, is an extremely relaxing escape. Their simple Classic Rejuvenation package scrubs the city grime off and polishes you up like a dream. Go festive and pick the bright-colored Almond Tomato off the Scrubs menu, which helps reduce fine lines.
One of our favorite “getaway spas” is the recently opened Japanese ryokan-style Ikeda Spa Prestige. You’ll love the giant hinoki tub here: It’s lit by a single screen displaying a snowy Japanese countryside, which is complemented by traditional shower facilities. Book the sweet-smelling Red Rose Bath to have the “onsen” experience all to yourself.
$280++ for 120 minutes from Banyan Tree Spa Marina Bay Sands, 55/F Tower 1 Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8825, www. banyantreespa.com. Open daily 10am-11pm.
Full Moon Spend one of the days this long weekend at the lovely Auriga Spa with its rather hush-hush hilltop ambiance over in Sentosa. Our pick of their signature spa treatments: the divine-sounding Full Moon package that includes a foot massage, full body exfoliation using rose petals and rose oil-infused salt, a deep cleansing wrap and massage, as well as a lymphatic facial that incorporates rose crystals. $440 for 180 minutes at Auriga Spa, Capella Singapore, 1 The Knolls, Sentosa Island, 6591-5023, www.capellasingapore.com. Open daily 10am-10pm.
$80 for 30 minutes at Ikeda Spa Prestige, #05-22 The Central, 6 Eu Tong Sen St., 6222-8080, www.ikedaspa.com. Open daily 1:30-10:30pm.
Strawberry Butter Meltdown Set deep amongst the trees up at Dempsey Hill, Spa Esprit at House offers a lovely treatment package that includes a full body rubdown and scrub using strawberryinfused melted butter and a strawberry sugar paste, which feels as good as it sounds. n $180 for 90 minutes at Spa Esprit at Beauty Emporium, House, 8D Dempsey Rd., 6479-0070, spa-esprit.com. Open daily 10am-10pm.
TECh
E for Effort
Local digital tools that make it easy for you to do good, whether it’s volunteering, raising funds or simply saving energy. By Crystal Lee ECo Challenge www.swcdc.intraix.com
This fun iPhone app by local startup intraix and the South West Community Development Council (CDC) helps households monitor and reduce energy consumption while rewarding users for being energy efficient. A series of simple challenges, like setting the air-conditioner at 25 degrees Celsius, is updated weekly and points are earned when you complete a mini-game, or when your household successfully lowers energy consumption for the month.
One Cent Movement www.onecentmovement.org
You won’t feel so bad about splurging on goods online with the soon-to-be released Chrome plugin for this homegrown initiative, which rounds up your expenditure to the nearest dollar at checkout and donates the difference to charity. Submit your email address to be notified when the beta version is ready.
President’s Challenge Volunteer Drive www.pcvd.com
Annual charity campaign President’s Challenge has joined forces with local tech-social startup Start Now (www.startnow.sg) to launch this new web portal that collates volunteering opportunities from hundreds of non-profit and voluntary welfare organizations island-wide. How it works: Sign up and login via Facebook, register for and get notified of events that match your preferences. The user-friendly site also allows participants to form interest groups, post pictures and view their activity history. n Keith Tan, co-founder of Start Now (they’re also behind similar volunteering portals for NUS and *Scape) expects an app version of PCVD to be launched in October.
OPEN STORE
Byx
The Buzz: Cyclists have more reasons to cheer with Byx bringing in a wide range of acclaimed brands like Niner, Stevens, Kestrel and Fuji, previously available here only in very limited numbers. The vibe: Simple, friendly and casual. With the store manager cycling from her Yishun home to work every single day, you know that the crew really knows their stuff.
FITNESS The goods: For day-to-day use, we like Fuji’s practical, urban rides such as the Fuji Nevada ($770) while hardcore off-road junkies will love the mountain bike range from Niner, such as the EMD9 model going for $3,300. Looking for some serious biking action? Try those snazzy Kestrel and Stevens road bikes, or the bestselling Kestrel 4000 LTD, which will set you back a cool $13,000. Oh, and if your bike needs some tuning up, the experts on hand offer extensive in-house services, which even include washing facilities. Why you’ll be back: They’ve got everything here—a neat range of bikes to suit most budgets and a reasonably wide array of equipments to choose from. Plus, the folks are very friendly—perfect for newbies and seasoned cyclists alike.
403 River Valley Rd., 6235-5221, www.byx.com.sg. Open Mon-Fri 11am-8pm, Sat 10am-8pm. Khairul Amri
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Custom House
A guide to the city’s specialist food bars. By Chin Hui Wen
T
hese new dining concepts sprouting up across town, honing in on just one dish or food group—be it cheese, rillettes, jamon, dessert or paella—are proving that quality can trump quantity in the dining stakes. Here are five leading the charge. Dessert Bar at POLLEN
Jamon Bar at My Little Spanish Place
Jamon Bar at My Little Spanish Place
Rillette Bar at Le Bistrot Du Sommelier
Bukit Timah Spanish restaurant My Little Spanish Place just launched this jamon bar offering five different kinds of Spanish ham. Options include Joselito ($25/25g), which is aged for four years, and Fermin ($7/25g), just 18-20-months-old. You can get the hams to-go or order the Tabla de Cinco Jamones ($75), a platter featuring all five. Chef-owner Maria Sevillano says, “Deli and charcuterie is part and parcel of Spanish life. We felt it was important to share the real jamon experience, where each order is freshly sliced.” Co-chef Edward Esmero adds, “When we first started, some people thought we were crazy. It is quite an investment—and a lot of risk—offering five legs of jamon at once. These legs of jamon need special care. But it’s really popular. Customers order jamon takeaway for parties. And at the restaurant, some come in just for the ham, and then end up ordering a complete dinner with us.”
Le Bistrot Du Sommelier's rillette bar (just upstairs of the restaurant) offers rustic rabbit, duck, pork or salmon (from $13.50) spreads. Chef and co-owner of the French spot Patrick Heuberger says, “I always wanted to feature French charcuterie in Singapore and have been perfecting my recipes for 12 years." When the establishment moved to its new digs at Armenian Street last year, the chef thought it was time to dedicate an entire concept to his rillettes, setting aside the whole second floor for it, with a production kitchen, bar and casual seating area.
Pour It On It’s not only food bars that are adopting the one dish wonder approach. These new drink specialists are also zeroing in on specific tipples.
Champagne bar at Lolla Rillette Bar at Le Bistrot Du Sommelier
22 Ann Siang Rd., 6423-1228, www.lolla.com.sg.
53 Armenian St., 6333-1982, www. lebistrotdusommelier.com.
The Manor
Wine Connection Cheese Bar
After a major facelift, Wine Connection’s deli and store at Robertson is now Jamon Bar's Maria Sevillano a contemporary and Edward Esmero cheese and wine bar. The 190-seater offers over 40 matured farm Dessert Bar at POLLEN cheeses (from $19) flown 619 Bukit Timah Rd., 6463-2810, POLLEN has a dramatic nine-meter long BOMBA’s Langoustine www.mylittlespanishplace.com.sg. in from Europe, as well as Squid & Prawns Paella dessert bar in the main dining room, a over 500 vino labels (from replica of the one at Michelin-starred $30). Managing Director Caroline BOMBA Paella Bar chef Jason Atherton’s flagship Simon says, “The cheese bar was With seemingly no limit to Singapore’s restaurant, Pollen Street Social a natural evolution to revamp our appetite for Spanish food, restaurant in London. The idea’s that folks existing deli and bistro. We needed BOMBA—named after the rice used to make join pastry chef Andres Lara at its signature paella—is a vivacious venue with to differentiate it from our tapas the counter for an interactive bar next door.” Simon explains, loud music and lots of action. Helmed by end to their meal, watching chef Jean-Philippe Patruno, the focus is firmly “The market is becoming more chef prepare their sweets. mature, thanks to the larger selection on paella with options including arroz negro Options range from the Pollen Caroline Simon of cheese available in supermarkets (from $40)—with squid, dry sherry, squid ink Tatin ($20)—verjus, crème fraiche, and black mushrooms—and Valenciana (from and specialty shop across the island, caramel, red and green apples—to and most of our customers are locals.” $35), cooked in saffron chicken stock and the Banana Rice Pudding ($20), featuring studded with chorizo, pork belly and chicken. It’s all served up in a slick red and black space with a busy open kitchen counter. Martin No. 38, 38 Martin Rd., 6509-1680, www.bomba.sg.
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#01-05 Robertson Walk, 11 Unity St., 6238-1279, www.facebook.com/ WineConnectionCheeseBarSGP.
In the basement private dining room of small plates joint Lolla is a cool Champagne counter with 20 kinds of boutique bubbly. They’ve got bottles like Salon Blanc de Blancs ($660), plus by-the-glass options (from $25).
This whisky specialist is Scotch label The Balvenie’s first bar in Asia. It's set to open upstairs of new retro watering hole Zui Hong Lou this month. 8 Ann Siang Hill, 6423-9562.
Tippletown Beer’s the focus here and the bar stocks some 80 bottles (from $10), categorized by style—region-specific ales, fruit beers, porters and stouts, ciders—rather than label, all accompanied by useful info (country of origin, flavor, volume and alcohol content). 11 Club St., 6557-2554, www. tippletown.com.
corn, coconut, sudachi and Madras curry. #01-09 Flower Dome, Gardens by the Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr., 6604-9988, www. pollen.com.sg. Tippletown
NEW AND NOTED With Chin Hui Wen
Bar-Roque Grill
OTTO Locanda
Kanpai! Lively Japanese restaurant-bars are really catching on here. There’s Sumiya (#12-02 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6509-9618, www. sumiya.com.sg) at Orchard Central, and new Chinatown izakaya Izy Dining & Bar (27 Club St.) set up by
6444-6163, www.candlenut.com.sg). Plus, there’s Sinpopo BRAND (458 Joo Chiat Rd., 6345-5034), a new retro eatery offering old school sweets, and Momma Kong’s (34 Mosque St., 6225-2722, www.facebook.com/ MommaKongs) for local seafood. Check out our guides to the best Peranakan restaurants (is.gd/bestperanakan) and National Day dining deals (is.gd/ ndpdining2013) for more local food options.
Waku Ghin alum Kazumasa Yazawa.
Social Lubricant At the new Wine Cocktail Social ($40) at Buyan Russian Restaurant & Caviar Bar (9/10 Duxton Hill, 6223-7008, www.buyan.sg) on Aug 16, oenophiles get to sample Russian canapes along with two glasses of artisan wine, while mingling with fellow vino enthusiasts. If you need a top up, additional glasses go for $12.
Hi Hi Birdie One of the most eagerly awaited joints of the year, 1920s-style resto The Black Swan (19 Cecil St., 8181-3305, www.theblackswan.com.sg) is now open with a decor inspired by the robber baron age, and classic recipes such as duck confit ($34). Check back next issue for a complete look.
Local Flair Homegrown cuisines are enjoying a real resurgence. Celeb chef Malcolm Lee has just relaunched Peranakan restaurant Candlenut (#01-03 Dorsett Residences, 331 New Bridge Rd.,
Bar None Fans of communal dining, listen up. Chef Stephane Istel (formerly of the Daniel Boulud Group) has just launched French restaurant Bar-Roque Grill (#01-00 Amara Hotel, 165 Tanjong Pagar Rd., 6444-9672, www.bar-roque. com.sg) offering a good range of meats cooked on a high power Rotisol electric rotisserie. Istel says, “Asian people love to share food and I’m doing sharing meals Western-style.”
Regional Hits Unfussy Italian joint OTTO Locanda (#01-03, 32 Maxwell Rd., 6224-0978, www.ottolocanda.com.sg) has just launched a fresh menu—with a greater emphasis on lesser known regional specialties—crafted by their new chef Marco Violano, including frittelle alla pugliese ($18), pillowy dough fritters and scamorza cheese wrapped with ham. wchin@asia-city.com.sg
Chicken Rice Celebrate National Day (Aug 9) with Singapore’s favorite hawker meal. Boon Tong Kee 425 River Valley Rd., 6736-3213, www. boontongkee.com.sg.
Nan Heng Hainanese Chicken Rice #0228 Bukit Merah Central Food Centre, 163 Bukit Merah Central, 6273-6993.
Chatterbox 5/F Mandarin Orchard Singapore, 333 Orchard Rd., 6831-6291, www.chatterbox.com.sg. Loy Kee Chicken Rice 342 Balestier Rd., 6252-2318, www. loykee.com.sg.
Sin Kee Famous Chicken Rice #0222, 159 Mei Chin Rd., 6473-9525.
Tian Tian Hainanese Chicken Rice 443 Joo Chiat Rd., 63459443, www.tiantianchickenrice.com. Chatterbox
Chin Hui Wen
FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE 21
island
food + fashion + fitness + tech + health + home OPEN DOOR
LUNCH BOX
Jamie’s Italian
Open Door Policy The food: A range of affordable everyday eats, which are very similar to the chain’s offerings worldwide. There’s Jool’s Favourite Sicilian Tuna Fusilli (from $14), a briny bowlful of house-made pasta, slow-cooked albacore and cinnamon breadcrumb topping, plus, crab risotto (from $19) and grilled chicken with pizziola tomato sauce ($28). Desserts include their take on tiramisu ($11.50), a five layered dessert topped with orange mascarpone.
The buzz: It might be a little overhyped given that back in the UK it’s a reliably affordable chain with more than 30 outlets, but Jamie’s Italian—the celeb chef’s first Singapore project—is finally open at VivoCity.
The drinks: Easy-on-the-pocket Italian wines (from $49.50) and plenty of refreshing tipples such as the sour cherry fizz ($15)—sour cherries, orange liqueur, cherry brandy and prosecco—as well as classics like the negroni ($14). Teetotalers can pick from a range of non-alcoholic options (made in-house) such as ginger beer (from $6.50) and Italian lemonade (from $5.50).
The vibe: The large space—which has a clear sea view—is outfitted with mismatched furnishings (think red booth seats and blue metal chairs), some of it custom made and other pieces sourced from vintage stores. All of it contributes to a casual breezy feel.
Why you’ll be back: For fresh value-for-money Italian recipes served up in hearty portions. The location right by the water means the view’s lovely too if you choose to sit outside.
The deal: At this hip Tiong Bahru hangout—by Tippling Club’s Ryan Clift and Spa Esprit’s Cynthia Chua—you get three courses, plus a drink (pick either wine or a mocktail) for $35. The courses change on a daily basis but we’ve had some super smooth cauliflower soup, kicky black pepper scallop pasta and indulgent chocolate banana cake, all paired with crisp vinho verde. Why it’s worth it: The food’s never boring and the space has the most appealing urban vibe. Besides, you’d be hard pressed to find another affordable set lunch with wine pairings in this town, and the mid-day tipple is a lovely touch. 19 Yong Siak St., 6221-9307, www.odpsingapore.com. Available Mon, Wed-Fri, 12:30-3pm. Chin Hui Wen
#01-165-167, 1 HarbourFront Walk, 6733-5500, www.jamieoliver.com/italian/singapore/vivo-city. Chin Hui Wen
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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, AuguSt 9, 2013
Follow I-S on facebook www.facebook. com/ismagazine We’ll be the best friend you ever had, with info on all the hottest events, breaking news from around the city, and a thousand and one ideas for what to do in your down time. (Plus, you can meet all our other wonderful friends. Who knows–they probably like the same things you do.)
island
food + fashion + fitness + tech + health + home BEST CoFFEE joiNT
Drink Rosé
is.gd/isreaderschoiceawards2013
Indulge in this quintessential summer tipple on any budget with this guide to our favorite rosés.
Under $30
Under $60
Syrah Rose Belgrange
Mitolo Jester Rose
From the south of France, this direct, easy drinking vino tastes of blackcurrant and cherry. It’s a gorgeous deep garnet color (showcasing lots of fruit extraction) too.
Full and bright, this unique wine has an almost tomato-like nose with bracing acidity.
$23 from Le Benaton @ Grandstand, #01-34C 200 Turf Club Rd., 6467-2157, www.lebenaton.com.sg.
Under $40 Estampa Estate Cabernet Sauvignon-Syrah Rose 2010 Manfred Tan, managing director of Phoenix Wines says, “There’s a natural freshness to this wine. The fruitiness is balanced with a touch of mint so it’s great for Singapore’s tropical climate.” $36 from Phoenix Wines, #01-02A-02B The Grandstand, Turf City, 200 Turf Club Rd., 6466-9172, www.phoenixwines.com.sg.
$50 from Wines Online, www. winesonline.com.sg.
Under $80
Rose de Haut Bailly Made from 100% cabernet sauvignon, this bottle is exceptionally smooth but is also concentrated enough to even stand up to a good steak. $70 from Caveau Wines & Bar, #02-10 Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Rd., 67372622, www.caveau.com.sg.
Ochoa Rosado de Lagrima This Spanish rose boasts a pretty cherry color and red berry aroma. Restaurant Manager at Platters, Tan Kok Hong, recommends pairing it with dishes such as Asia’s Ultimate Star Burgers (from $32)—a duo of spicy beef rendang and chicken satay sliders—available as part of their guest chef edition five menu (with chef Karl Dobler and Eugenia Ong) available through October 31. $75 from Platters Bistro and Wine Bar, 42 Club St., 6223-8048, www.platters.com.sg.
Under $100 Chateau d’Esclans Garrus Rose “This individualistic rose is powerful, with complex layers of flavor including red currant, with some minerality and a hint of wet earth, which I think represents the terroir of Provence, France well,” says Gerald Lu, head sommelier at Praelum. $80 from Praelum Wine Bistro, 4 Duxton Hill, 6238-5287, www.praelum. com.sg. Chin Hui Wen
Chye Seng Huat Hardware With a 360-degree coffee bar, killer bottled cold brew coffee and some seriously delicious pastries to go alongside—it’s your top choice for a jolt of caffeine. “We stuck true to the coffee bar experience where the showcase was the brewing of coffee. It all adds up to the vibe at the bar and we do jump at an opportunity to push the boundaries of coffee in Singapore,” says owner Leon Foo Rumor has it they’re opening a branch in Malaysia some time soon. 150 Tyrwhitt Rd., 6396-0609, www.cshhcoffee.com
R EA D I T H E R E F I R ST
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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013
Print is dead. So get the app instead! As if you needed another reason to get our awesome awardwinning tablet app, this year our annual restaurant guide, Top Tables, with more mouth-watering photos, plus maps and click-through booking, is available in app format for your iPad or Android tablet at asia-city.com/app.
RESTAURANT REVIEWS
Ratings H HH HHH HHHH HHHHH
Cafe & Bar Gavroche HHHHH
ME@OUE HHHHH
French. 69 Tras St., 6225-4869, www.cafegavroche.com.
Chinese, French, Japanese. 19/F OUE Bayfront, 50 Collyer Quay, 6634-4555, www.me-oue.com.
This restaurant is a real slow burner. It grows on you. The food (mainly sandwiches and salads) is nothing fancy—head to sister establishment Brasserie Gavroche just across the street for more elaborate recipes—and might first seem underwhelming. But the menu’s full of simple things (all flawlessly executed) that are perfect at all times of day. The croque monsieur ($16), thick slices of brioche filled with creamy nutmeg bechamel and savory ham, is one of our favorite lunches in the city. And we love having their open faced sandwiches or tartines—which come topped with everything from light tomatoes and tapenade ($10) to indulgent pork rillettes ($9)— post work, especially washed down with well-mixed drinks like the fresh Pierrot ($18), Picon bitter orange liquor and Champagne. Brunch is stellar too (and quiet, a rarity in this town). We just can’t get enough of the eggs benedict ($22), which is blanketed with some truly lush hollandaise. Everyone needs a spot like this in their neighborhood. Not only is the grub the kind of thing you could eat almost every day, the space (inspired by the streets of 1920s Paris) instils an instant sense of calm with welcoming rattan chairs and quirky vintage outfittings like street lamps and typewriters. We also love how they get a steady stream of customers (and really interesting ones at that—great people watching material), but are never overcrowded. Come and stay a while, perhaps lingering over their intense chocolate brandy ice cream ($10) or killer profiteroles ($10): You’ll never want to leave. Open Tue-Fri noon-2pm; Tue-Sat 5pm-midnight; Sat-Sun 10:30am-2:30pm. $$
There's a very definite sense of purpose to this restaurant: It’s a business entertaining machine. At the heart of the CBD (at the top of the OUE Bayfront Building) it boasts a great view of Marina Bay, and—designed by Japanese architectural firm, Super Potato—it’s slick enough to leave an impression. If we were deal makers, we’d take clients here all the time. No matter their background or tastes, there’d be something to feed them. We love how their three kitchens (helmed by celeb chefs)—Chinese, French and Japanese—are all kept separate so there’s no fusion confusion, and were pretty impressed by the diversity of the menu. Down home favorites like their respectable rendition of Hokkien Noodles (from $28)—done KL-style, thick and black with lots of lard—are comforting and nostalgic. And we much appreciate the luxury of having street food, together with elegant plates such as prawn carpaccio ($22), all in the same meal. The drinks list including blowout bottles like Chateau Petrus, Pomerol ($19,000) is also real impressive. Plus, the service is absolutely stellar: smooth and helpful but never intrusive. Left to our own devices though, there isn’t quite enough here to keep us coming back. For starters, MediaCorp (a partner in the dining project) means to use it as hub for their talent, and many of us would rather not hobnob with local starlets. Also the food, while decent, is pretty soulless (as expected from such a commercial operation). Keep this spot in mind for business, but for pleasure, there are plenty of better options in town. Open Mon-Fri 11am-10pm; Sat 6-11pm. $$$
Forget it only if you're stuck in the neighborhood A pleasant dining experience More than just great food, tell your friends Not to be missed
Price Guide $ Less than $40 $$ $40-$80 $$$ $80-120 $$$$ $120-200 $$$$$ $200 and up
Price per person, including one drink, appetizer, main course and dessert. Prices do not include bottles of wine unless stated. New restaurants are not reviewed within three months of their opening.
Reviews are based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the knowledge of the restaurants. Reviews are included at the discretion of the editors and are not paid for by the individual restaurants.
Recently Reviewed by I-S Chopsuey Cafe “...you can’t stroll in here for takeout in your sweats, but for inventive chow on a fancy pants night out, this is hard to beat.” HHHHH La Barra “Latin food’s big now, and their menu sounded real appealing. Too bad the grub here is such a letdown.” HHHHH GRUB “The food can be a little hit or miss, so it’s not quite a destination restaurant. But it’s got the right spirit…” HHHHH The Big Sheila “With its out-of-the-way location and clientele of regulars, this spot feels almost like an underground supper club.” HHHHH Read all our reviews at is-magazine.com/restaurants
FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE 25
Need to know Theater & Arts The Arts House > 6332-6919
www.substation.org
www.theartshouse.com.sg
Ticketbooth > 6296-2929
Esplanade Box Office > 6828-8377
Cinema Ticketing Hotlines
www.esplanade.com
Fort Canning Park > 6332-1302
chart the weeks ahead
The Substation > 6337-7535
www.nparks.gov.sg
Gatecrash > 6100-2005 www.gatecrash.com.sg
National Museum of Singapore > 6332-5642
www.ticketbooth.com.sg
Cathay > 6337-8181 www.cathay.com.sg
Eng Wah > 6836-9074
www.ewcinemas.com.sg
Filmgarde > 6344-5997 www.filmgarde.com.sg
www.nationalmuseum.sg
Golden Village > 1900-912-1234
Singapore Art Museum > 6332-3222
Shaw > 6738-0555
www.singart.com
www.gv.com.sg www.shaw.sg
Sistic > 6348-5555 www.sistic.com.sg
SEE This
Dark is the Night Spellbinding arts performances abound at this year’s Singapore Night Festival. See Etc, page 30.
DO This
DON'T Miss
Heritage Licks Throw back cool drinks with spicy Peranakan fare at Immigrants' Special Heritage Snacks with Alcohol Pairing.
Sound Off
High-tempo tunes by Welsh rock stars Stereophonics at their first solo gig in town. See Stage, page 27.
See Food & Drink, page 29.
OPEN BAR Fenix Room The buzz: Part of Zirca’s old digs is now a ritzy 5,000 sq. ft ultra-lounge, care of nightlife specialists Massive Collective (the same folks behind Mink and former Filter Members Club) and Lifebrandz. The décor: Velvet sofas, dark marbled surfaces and a glamorous, Art Deco style island bar make for a Great Gatsby-inspired space, but the theme’s hardly noticeable when psychedelic disco lights flood the dimly-lit interiors. There’s no dance floor to speak of (it’s supposedly a lounge), though tables and seats are placed sparingly for room to groove. The drinks: As you’d expect of a bar reminiscent of the roaring ‘20s—with a good selection of Champagne and gin amid the standards. Gin connoisseurs will pleased
with premium labels including Junipero and Sipsmith ($16 per glass, $288 per bottle). The music: EDM with occasional hip-hop, indie and nu-rave thrown in. The crowd: Dressed-up city folk who seem only interested in getting drunk and having a really good time. Why you’ll be back: You’re missing the now-closed Filter. Even if you never went to the members-only club, this new hotspot for the fashionable and the glamorous will give you glimpse of its former glory (one without the stuffy exclusivity). Crystal Lee
Blk. C Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd., 6305-6768, www.facebook.com/fenixroomsg. Thu-Sat 10pm-6am.
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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013
StAgE
bonus giveaways
Email event news to stage@asia-city.com.sg
StAgE
Home Club, #B1-01/06 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd., 6538-2928. $15 one drink included.
classical
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The Choir of King’s College, Cambridge One of the leading choral groups in the world joins forces with some of our finest homegrown musicians to bring you a repertoire of compositions by Mozart, Schubert and Vivaldi. Aug 17, 7:30pm. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Dr., 68288377. $28-88 from Sistic.
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Music of Love & Death - A Piano Recital by Daniel Glover Witness the solo debut of virtuoso pianist Daniel Glover in a program featuring a scope of commissioned works commemorating the bicentennial birthday of Richard Wagner. Aug 19, 7:30pm. Esplanade Recital Studio, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. $33.
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Flute Festival Orchestra Concert French flautist Philippe Pierlot pairs up with the Singapore Flute Orchestra to play favorites from composers like Vivaldi and Handel, plus Tchaikovsky’s grandiose ballet, Sleeping Beauty. Log on to the website to book tickets. Aug 25, 8pm. The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament Lane. Call 9877-4035 for more info.
concerts & gigs
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Home Club Presents Kicks! Get your fill of indie hits and be entertained by Joe Ng, Roland Ngoi and DJ duo Twoface every first Friday of the month. Aug 9, 10:30pm.
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Noise Singapore 2013: The Music Mentorship Concerts This concert showcases fresh-faced musicians at the end of a five-month training and grooming program under the wings of household names like Bani Haykal, Don Richmond and Eddino Abdul Hadi of Force Vomit fame. Aug 16-18, 7:15pm. Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Dr., 6828-8377. Free.
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I-S PICK> Metallica Having last performed here over 20 years ago, the icons are back to rock their legion of fans again with some of their most enduring tracks such as “Enter Sandman”, “Fuel” and “Master Of Puppets”. Aug 24, 8:30pm. Changi Exhibition Centre, 9 Aviation Dr., 6542-8660. $148-188 from Sistic.
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Shut Up & Listen! Live Empire’s annual rock concert features a list of international bands such as Anberlin, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus and Tonight Live. Aug 29, 7pm. The Coliseum, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 65778888. $68 from Sistic.
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I-S PICK> Placebo The British rock band is set to perform their dark and melodic trademark sound on stage for one night only. Aug 27, 8pm. The Coliseum, Resorts World Sentosa, 8 Sentosa Gateway, 6577-8888. $88-108 from Sistic.
SCENE & HEARD with Terry Ong
Isle of Fun
and premium cocktails and in terms of food, get this—foie gras lollipops, Jaded by the local party scene? perfumed seafood and warm The guys at new movement centered milk chocolate Singapore Island Culture fondant! But more Club (www.facebook.com/ importantly, will it be singaporeislandcultureclub), stylish and yes, will we or SICC, spearheaded by girlget the chance to bust a about-town Tracy Phillips, Vogue move or two on are planning to change all the dancefloor? Stay tuned that. Working with a series to find out more. of alcohol brands and venues like Kyo and Tanjong Beach Club, Singapore Island In the Books these guys promise a cool music Culture Club To celebrate its 13th anniversary, playlist every time with fresh arts center Esplanade—Theatres new offerings featuring interactive art on the Bay launched a comprehensive elements. “We promise fun yet intimate compendium last week, creatively titled parties, plus food and art on the menu Esplanade—Theatres on the Bay for something quite unexpected,” Singapore (sic). But what we says Phillips. Their recent shindig like about it is that it not at TBC with Aldrin on the DJ only covers a good range console was pretty riotous, of shows that have taken so expect more mayhem at place at the arts center, but their upcoming gig at Kyo also documents the early (#B1-02 Keck Seng Tower, history of other performing 133 Cecil St., 8299-8735, arts venues (accompanied www.clubkyo.com). See page by rare photos too!). “We 33 for details. Esplanade hope that we can unite our Theatres on the efforts around a common aim Strike a Pose Bay Singapore to transform people’s lives for Much-anticipated nightlife the better through the arts,” said destination Vogue Club is set to Esplanade’s CEO Benson Puah at the book launch on Aug 30 on the 45th floor launch. The book is on sale now at $49.90 of Singapore Land Tower (50 Raffles at major bookstores in town, including Place, 9151-1257, www.facebook.com/ Kinokuniya (#03-09/10/15 Ngee Ann vogueclubsg). We’re really looking forward to their cool selection of vintage City, 391 Orchard Rd., 6737-5021). Champagne, fine wines, boutique spirits
Tell us what being B O L D means to you and you could win exclusive tickets to the G u i n n e s s A r t h u r ’ s D a y C o n c e r t featuring T h e F r a y on F r i d a y , S e p t e m b e r 2 7 . Location: Still a secret
How to take part? Post a picture on instagram, hashtag #ismagazine and #ArthursDaySG share with us your BOLD perspective. Our 5 favorite entries will win an exclusive pair of tickets to the Guinness Arthur’s Day concert. CONTEST ENDS AUG 30 Results will be revealed on I-S Instagram (@ismagazine) and Facebook (facebook.com/ismagazine) on Sep 6.
rn a e L
e k a to B
Japanese Lemon Pound Cake
Chocolate Fondant
Mayumi San underwent diploma course at two prestigious culinary school, Le Cordon Bleu (London) and Ecole Criollo (Tokyo)
FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE
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StAgE » ARt » fOOD AND DRiNk
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Pitbull Global Warming Tour The iconic rapper is set to bring the party to Singapore as part of the promotions for his latest album, Global Warming. Aug 31, 8pm. The Max Pavilion@Singapore Expo, 1 Expo Dr.. $88-158 from Sistic.
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I-S PICK> Stereophonics The Welsh rock stars who brought us hit songs “Dakota” and “Have a Nice Day” return with brand new material from their most recent album, Graffiti on the Train. Aug 14, 8pm. Fort Canning Park, Cox Terrace, 6332-1200. $88-250 from Sistic.
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Anne Weerapass Quartet Jazz crooner Anne Weerapass takes the stage on vocals alongside her crew of friends. Aug 16, 9:30pm. Blu Jaz Café, 11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800. Free first drink applies.
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I-S PICK> Guinness Arthur's Day Concert A very special celebration with lots of Guinness in the house and a special appearance by rock band The Fray. So special, even the
location's a secret for now. Sep 27. See ad on page 27 for more details and how you can score an invite.
comedy
dance
I-S PICK> Talk Cock Comedy Singapore comedy guru Jonathan Atherton and other brilliant performers in yet another no-holdsbarred open mic comedy performance. Aug 14, 8:30pm. Blu Jaz Café, 11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800. $15.
Masterpiece in Motion SDT’s International Repertory Season presents some of the finest international ballet performances, including George Balanchine’s Theme and Variations, Nils Christe’s Organ Concerto and Val Caniparoli’s Lambarena. Aug 23, 24, 8pm. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Dr.. Call 6338-0611 for more info. $30-70 from Sistic.
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music festivals I-S PICK
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1 World Music Festival Marina Barrage transforms into a massive party ground for this sunrise-to-sunset music fest with international acts like Far East Movement, Orbital, Yuna and Tinie Tempah in the lineup. Log on to the website for tickets. Sep 20-21, 6pm. Marina Barrage, 8 Marina Gardens Dr., 6514-5959. $98-188.
Whose Line is it Anyway..? Original stars of hit British show Whose Line Is It Anyway Andy Smart, Stephen Frost, Steven Steen and Ian Coppinger perform their sidesplitting sketches for the first time in Singapore. Aug 22-24, 8:30pm. Klapsons, The Boutique Hotel, 15 Hoe Chiang Road, +65-6521-9029. $50-60 from Sistic.
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Chestnuts 6.9: The Less Miserable White Paper A knee-slapping evening of spoofs and stinging jibes with Singapore’s longest-running live parody show. Aug 16, 19-23, 8pm; Aug 17-18, 3pm, 8pm; Aug 24-25, 3pm, 8pm. The Drama Centre, National Library, #05-01, 100 Victoria St., 68378400. $45-65 from Sistic.
theater
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Everything but the Brain The 2006 winner of Life! Theatre Awards’ Best Original Script, this play tells the story of a science teacher who breaks the laws of physics—and your heart—as she tries to go back to the past to save her father. Aug 10-21, 3pm. DBS Arts Centre - Home of SRT, 20 Merbau Rd., 6733-8166. $35-55 from Sistic.
ARt last chance
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I-S PICK> The Artist, the Book and the Crowd An art exhibition, a library and a community space of sorts, the gallery space at The Substation is turned into a gathering site filled with newlywritten text-based works, readings, workshops and performance art pieces by some of the city’s most prolific artists including Lee Wee, Ang Song-Ming, Heman Chong and Zhao Renhui. Through Aug 11. The Substation, 45 Armenian St., 6337-7535. Free.
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Yuichi Harako The recipient of Japan’s prestigious Vision of Contemporary Art Award, the Japanese painter’s works are surrealistic and hypnotic, and will not look out of place in a Tim Burton movie. Through Aug 11. The Drawing Room (Gillman Barracks), #01-06, 5 Lock Rd.., 6694-3289. Free.
Join us at Gillman Barracks Find out more about all participating galleries at www.is-magazine.com/artwalk
PARTNERS:
WED 21 AUG / GILLMAN BARRACKS PARTICIPATING GALLERIES:
SCENEStEALER Phantom of the Opera Broadway’s blockbuster musical is back in Singapore for a very limited season. We spoke to Brad Little, who plays the Phantom, to find out how much he relates to the coveted role. The play is about a character haunting the Paris Opera House. Have you experienced any hauntings yourself? I’ve had a few ghostly experiences in my time. One would be while I was doing a production at the George M. Cohan theater in New York. I was sitting in the centre set piece and felt this extremely cold wind hit me. It was late at night and my friend and I were just talking on the set. One of the poles from which were holding a string of light just fell and crushed the set piece. What is your personal interpretation of the Phantom? This is a man who has lived in the bowels of the opera house his whole life. He doesn’t really know society. He doesn’t go outside. His education of what people do and how they live is through opera. It’s overly dramatic. It’s what he thinks people do for love. This dark side of him probably comes from being shunned but also from how he’s been educated in his life. He’s not mentally educated like how we have been in society. He’s a different animal.
Do you relate to the character then? I understand where he comes from. I understand why he does the things he does. When you put things into perspective, I can absolutely see how a human being who has been put into that sort of situation can come out as dark as the Phantom. What’s great is the manipulation of musical theater which actually enables audiences to empathize with the character. But are there any personal parallels between yourself and Phantom? It’s because I’m dyslexic and I know what it was like to be called stupid and all these things from other people so I can relate to the character. I’ve had so many letters of things that people let out—as far as their own skeletons in the closet—that they’re finally able to release because of this show. What about your love life—any parallels there? I don’t know how many Christines I’ve had in my lifetime, actually! That said, I don’t know if that makes the Phantom a playboy! Khairul Amri
The Phantom of the Opera is on through Sep 1, 8pm. The MasterCard Theatre, B1/F The Shoppes @ Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8868. $55-230 from Sistic.
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Email event news to stage@asia-city.com.sg, art@asia-city.com.sg and food@asia-city.com.sg
StAtE Of tHE ARt Heman Chong the future, and to see if there are certain applications to this research where I can show different methods in which we can redefine our lives beyond what is told to us that will make us “happy”.
The Part In The Story Where We Lost Count Of The Days (2)
One of our most intriguing and acclaimed visual artists, Chong continues to explore multiple genres and concerns such as science fiction, national identity and futurism in his works, including his latest show The Part In The Story Where We Lost Count Of The Days (2). He lets us in on his thoughts and the exhibition. What purpose do you think art serves today? It's different for every artist, so I can only speak for myself here. I investigate how individuals and communities imagine
Tell us more about your travels and how they inspire or conspire your works. I don't see myself as a tourist and I think that is a very important position to take when I enter a certain urban situation. The point is not to want to consume everything around me, but to form certain specific relationships to people and things. For example, I'm spending a lot of time in Hong Kong and Rotterdam this year, but I don't feel the desire to assimilate anything. I spend a lot of time working in Witte de Witte Contemporary Art and The Part In The Story Where We Lost Count Of The Spring Workshop, where I am running a big project Days (2) is on through Aug 31. Future Perfect, #01called Moderation(s). I meet artists and curators, we do Heman Chong 22 Gillman Barracks, 47 Malan Rd., 9835-8271, www. workshops, I read a lot. futureperfect.asia. What inspires you these days here? Random Access Memories, the latest album from Daft Punk. The third track “Giogio by Moroder” is awesome.
EXPLORE all 14 galleries
housed in acclaimed new arts hub Gillman Barracks
TALK to the curators
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1 Dimensional Society Art collective BAN-FAM pays tribute to philosopher Herbert Marcuse’s influential polemic against totalitarianism, One Dimensional Man, at this experimental show involving beanbags. Through Aug 14. TriSpace, #B1-05 LASALLE College of the Arts, 1 McNally St., 6496-5000. Free.
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Tropical Lab 7: Echo: The Poetics of Translation This exhibition will showcase contemporary art works based on the idea of translation, created by students of this annual international experimental art workshop. Find their works at ICA Gallery 2 (#B1-06), Praxis Space (#H101), Project Space (#G101), and Brother Joseph McNally Gallery (#F101). Through Aug 14, 10am. LASALLE College of the Arts, 1 McNally St., 6496-5000.
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Futura, Mon Amour Singapore-based French achitect and photographer Stephane Lasserre presents an evocative body of work which documents both the interiors and exteriors of Futura, an en-bloc condominium that was torn
down a few years ago. Through Aug 14. Artistry, 17 Jalan Pinang, 6298-2420. Free.
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ILLUMINATIONS: Taiwanese Media Art Exhibition Works by emerging Taiwanese artists I-Chun Chen and Hsin-Chien Huang include highly stylized videos that appropriate traditional Western artforms. Through Aug 15. ICA Gallery, #B1-04 LASALLE College of the Arts, 1 McNally St., 6496-5000. Free.
ENJOY fantastic food, drinks
and other surprises in store
ARRIVE in a sleek Uber car
assistance of the S Pen, resulting in funky strokes based on architectural elements. Through Aug 21. 7Adam Gallery, 7 Adam Park, 6463-0777. Free.
I-S PICK
continuing
Beyond the Screen Singapore-based Chinese artist Zhu Hong showcases a savvy range of works created by using the Samsung Galaxy Note with the
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I-S PICK> The Mystery of Picasso’s Creative Process: The Art of Printmaking Discover over 560 of Picasso’s rarer paper works at the exhibition. Also look out for the US$13 million oil painting “Tête à la coiffe”. Through Aug 24. Singapore Tyler Print Institute, 41 Robertson Quay, 6336-3663. Free.
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Beyond Canvas: Paintings on Paper and Metal This collaborative show by Indian Sohan Qadri and Israeli-American Nathan Slate Joseph features brightly colored abstract works on heavy paper which elements of Tantric symbolism and Western minimalism. Through Aug 16. Sundaram Tagore Gallery Singapore (Gillman Barracks), #01-05, 47 Malan Rd. 6694-3378. Free.
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What can people expect from the exhibition? You will encounter three recent works that I have produced, each revealing aspects of my use of photography. The exhibition explores the multivalent role of the camera in my practice. The main piece in the show is “A Short Story About Singapore (Volume 1)”. It is one of many works that utilizes photography to construct large-scale archives. Abandoning high-end cameras in favour of the cheap layman’s snapshot camera, I have distanced myself from the role of technician. I use a pocket-sized camera that may be used without attracting much attention from his subjects and surroundings. This new work sees me returning to photography as a means of constructing narrative. Terry Ong
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Birth and Death Bridge The first solo show by the great Japanese artist Keiichi Tanaami features 12 giant paintings replete with his trademark psychedelic renderings of fantastical creatures and universes. Through Sep 29. Mizuma Gallery (Gillman Barracks), #01-34, 22 Lock Rd., 6570-2505. Free.
The Innocence Project Local artist Liana Yang combines photography and installation work to investigate various sociological and psychological relationships at this exhibition. Through Aug 25. Chan Hampe Galleries (Raffles Hotel), #01-20/21 Raffles Hotel, Raffles Hotel Arcade, 328 North Bridge Rd., 6338-1962. Free.
opening
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I-S PICK> Ai Weiwei - Baby Formula An installation by the controversial, infamous Chinese artist consisting of over 1,800 cans of baby milk powder arranged to form a map of China. Aug 23-Oct 6. Michael Janssen Gallery (Gillman Barracks), #02-21, Lock Rd.. Free.
fOOD AND DRiNk
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I-S PICK> Immigrants’ Special Heritage Snacks with Alcohol Pairing Damian D’Silva’s gastrobar Immigrants goes beyond the standard wine dinner with localized pairings like buah keluak fried rice with aged Japanese whisky. Through Aug 9, 5pm. Immigrants, 467 Joo Chiat Rd., 8511-7322.
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I-S PICK> Midnight Brunch with the Green Door Have brunch at midnight (why didn’t we think of that?), complete with free flow of Chandon Brut NV and DJ Kane Ian on the decks. Email rsvp@ thegreendoor.com.sg to sign up. Aug 16, 10pm. The Green Door, 13A Dempsey Rd., 6479-5945.
FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE
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SPORtS » Stuff Email event news to sports@asia-city.com.sg and stuff@asia-city.com.sg
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A Prelude to Autumn Enjoy il Lido’s fourcourse fall menu with Laphroaig whiskeys at this whiskey dinner that aims to recreate the smoky flavors of the season with produce like chestnuts, porcini and figs. Sign up on Palate’s website at www.palate.sg. Aug 21, 6:30pm. il Lido, Sentosa Golf Club, 27 Bukit Manis Rd., 6866-1977. $118-168.
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I-S PICK> iBrew Challenge Try out a variety of independently- and home-brewed beers straight from the keg at this local beer festival. Apart from all-you-can-drink beer, there’ll be sausages and pork knuckles to chow down on, plus a beer quiz, drinking game, and best beer t-shirt contest. Email tickets@ibrew.com.sg to register. Aug 24, 2pm. iBrew, #01-195, 354 Clementi Ave. 2, 9002-0705. $50-60.
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Crayfish Party Don your gaudiest bibs, load up on schnapps and prepare for a crayfish chow down at Tanjong Beach Club’s Swedish summer special. Aug 31, 4pm. Tanjong Beach Club, 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, 6270-1355.
SPORtS
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I-S PICK> Asia-Oceanic Ultimate Club Championships The Grandstand will play host to 2013’s AsiaOceanic Ultimate Club Championship, comprising an international flying disc tournament and accompanying carnival. Aug 9-11. Free.
WHY NOt? Be the next Quentin Tarantino Always thought you had a flair for film? Get expert advice and opinion at the renowned Dov Simens’ 2-Day Film School, the Hollywood Film Institute certified course that’s happening one weekend only (Aug 10-11) at LASALLE College of the Arts (1 McNally St., www.hollywoodinasia.com). For a fee of US$550 ($695), you can learn the ropes the same way notable alumni like Quentin Tarantino and Spike Lee did from Simens. Register at the door. Ranice Tan
I-S PICK
against one another as they show off their dragon boating prowess. Aug 17-18. Bedok Reservoir, Bedok Reservoir Rd. Call 6440-9763 for more info.
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adidas King of the Road 2013 Now into its third edition, this unique series draws massive crowds of participants and fans across the region. Aug 11, 7am. Gardens By The Bay, 18 Marina Gardens Dr. Call 6340-4204 for more info.
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Kranji Countryside Run Appreciate the biodiversity of the rural northwestern district in this run. Participants can choose from either a leisurely fourkilometer or competitive eight-kilometer route. Aug 11, 8am. $32-88.
Breathe Pilates 30-Day Challenge Take up a month-long Pilates challenge to get in shape, plus detox your body under the guidance of nutritionist Dana Heather. Daily classes are available for practitioners of all levels. Aug 12-Sep 11. #09-33 Novena Medical Centre, 10 Sinaran Dr., 9835-5683. $650-680.
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ComChest Heartstrings Walk 2013 @ Marina Bay Take a leisure walk around the scenic Marina Bay area with the 4km Charity Fun Walk or literally race to the sky with the Vertical Marathon that will end off at the Sands Skypark ($2000 for a team of four), all in the name of charity. Aug 18, 7am. Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Center, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8868. $10.
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I-S PICK> We Will Dance Participants will challenge one another for a good cause in Singapore’s first ever fundraising dance marathon. Aug 17, 12pm. Hong Lim Park, North Canal Rd.. $25-150.
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Singapore Dragon Boat Festival 2013 During this weekend festival, Singapore’s top teams pit themselves
full lineup. Through Aug 11. Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Dr., 68288377. Free.
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I-S PICK> Singapore Night Festival 2013 This annual nocturnal art festival gets under way as the museums in the heritage district throw open their doors late into the night, hosting a dazzling variety of special events and shows including music, dance, installation art and breathtaking aerial performances. Aug 23-24, 30-31, 7pm. Bras Basah Bugis Precinct Call 6338-0000 for more info. Free.
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International Cosplay Day Singapore Step into a fantasy world of comics, games and animations on this day dedicated to cosplayers and their pursuits. Email icds@neotokyoproject.com for more info. Aug 25, 10am. *SCAPE, 2 Orchard Link, 67354144. $5-30.
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Stuff etc
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National Day Celebrations 2013 A five-day festival of free dance, music and visual arts programs as Singaporeans pay tribute to their home. Check the website for the
Clifford Pier—A Place in our Hearts This photo exhibition chronicles the different roles the pier played in the sociopolitical landscape of Singapore from 1933 to 2006. Through Aug 31. Clifford Pier, Collyer Quay. Free.
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Singapore Toy, Games & Comic Convention 2013 Pop culture
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geeks of all stripes will be at this annual convention, where you can get first dibs on new artwork and toys, plus take photos with some jaw-dropping cosplayers. Aug 31-Sep 1, 10am. Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Center, 10 Bayfront Ave., 6688-8868.
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I-S PICK> 2013 Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix Aside from the high octane action along Marina Bay Street Circuit, this year's edition of the sports and entertainment mega-event promises a star-studded lineup of superstars. Headliners include Bigbang on Sep 20, The Killers and Bob Geldof on Sep 21, Rihanna and Tom Jones on Sep 22, and Justin Bieber at the closing concert. Sep 20-22, 2:30pm. Marina Bay Street Circuit, 6738-6738. $68-4200.
classes & workshops
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Travel Photography Workshop This workshop, taught by professional photographer, Karen Lucas will take you around Little India to learn to shoot travel photographs like the experts. Aug 15, 22, 9am. Baobab Photo, 37 Niven Rd.. Call 6402-3802 for more info. $250 for two three-hour sessions.
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I-S PICK> Pecha Kucha Night x INSEAD The lively, strictly-timed version of TED where speakers use only 20 images to present a topic in six minutes 40 seconds, teams up with business school INSEAD’s alumni and professors to talk about innovation, organisation, game changers, music and wine. Aug 23, 7pm. Asian Civilisations Museum, 1 Empress Place, 6332-7798.
community service
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Charity Quiz and Auction Night Win cash in denominations of $100-300 at the quiz section of this fundraiser night for the Cambodia House Build Project, or bid for cool stuff like a three-night luxury villa stay in Phuket at the auction. Aug 31, 7pm. Post Bar, G/F The Fullerton Hotel, 1 Fullerton Square, 6877-8135. Free.
sales & fairs
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I-S PICK> IndigNation Based on the theme “Faith is the Future”, this annual LGBT celebration will feature highlights including an evening of gay literature and a workshop for women who love women. Various venues. Through Aug 13. Log onto www. indignationsg.wordpress.com for more info.
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Istana Art Event View specially-curated artworks as well indulge in lots of food and drinks at this annual event, co-organized by the National Heritage Board and Singapore Art Museum. Aug 18, 8am. Istana Park, Orchard Rd., 6736-6622. Free.
website: www.raptorpos.com | www.hrsmarketing.com email: sales@raptorpos.com
I-S PICK
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Zouk Flea & Easy x Public Garden Here to bolster your patriotic week, the folks at Zouk's Flea & Easy and Public Garden are joining forces for a massive showcase of some of the island's finest designers and artisans throughout the entire Zouk complex. Expect more than 60 stalls featuring one-of-a-kind curiosities and fashion goodness. Aug 11, 2pm, Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988. Free.
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Clarke Quay Traders’ Market: Made in Singapore A collaboration between Clarke Quay and flea market brand For Flea Sake, this market features a local theme, in line with National Day. Expect to see vendors dressed in crimson hues and relive childhood memories with old-school night market games such as five stones and hop scotch. Aug 16-17, 5pm. Clarke Quay, 3 River Valley Rd., 6337-3292. Free.
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I-S PICK> BooksActually Pop-up Shop and Reading Corner Luxury furniture retailer Dream Interiors is hosting BooksActually’s latest pop-up store for a month with a reading corner featuring a variety of design books as well as a furniture sale. Through Aug 18. Dream Interiors, 456 River Valley Rd., 6235-0220. Free.
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I-S PICK> Sunday in the City Snap up some fantastic finds at this flea market organized by hip multi-concept store Pact, complete with music and drink deals. Aug 25, 12pm. Pact, #02-16/19 Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Rd., 6238-6281. Free.
ON tHE BAR Thursday nights Don’t you know? Thursday ladies’ nights are the new Wednesdays. Celebrate one of the most underrated days of the week with these sweet deals.
enes at c s e h t nd Go behi events s s e r p , s preview stings, a t t c u d and pro stagram n I n o S with Iazine @ismag
The Vintage Room
Pangaea
Kyo
Idle
This bar is one of our favorites around Duxton, thanks to its cute but not prissy vibe. Think cushy sofas, fuzzy rugs, vintage bric-a-brac, dainty French bites and girly-girl drinks list. As if all that wasn’t enough, they also make free Bellinis for ladies on Thursday nights, which makes it all the more difficult to resist popping by after work to hang out. (What? Us clichéd?)
If you’re often stuck at work and keep missing regular happy hours, this weekly late night hip hop and trap party should make your trudge home a little lighter. From midnight, ladies get as many signature Pangini cocktails as they want for an hour. Although men have to pay $30 (the only cover charge in this list), they get in on the fun, too, with all-youcan-drink housepours and beers for the same duration.
This newcomer’s really coming into its own with its slick parties and great guest DJs. But they’ve not too cool for a ladies’ night, apparently, and a pretty formulaic one at that: Complimentary vodka cranberry? Check. Hip hop and R&B soundtrack? Check. Though it’s not exactly cutting edge, it’s still one of the best ladies’ nights in town, because the crowd sure knows how to have fun. Come early for their fantastic Japanese bar bites.
If bumping and grinding to trashy club remixes is not your thing, Idle’s ladies’ night is a pretty good alternative. In-the-know DJs like Kentaro Taniguchi from the Mugic crew and the laidback guys from Kilowatt Soundsystem make this more a music scene get-together than an exploitative scheme to get girls maximally wasted. For free flow drinks, they’ve stuck to the traditional lychee martini. Oh well— we can’t have it all. Yet.
#B1-02 Keck Seng Tower, 133 Cecil St., 8299-8735, www. clubkyo.com. Available Thu 10pm-2am.
16A Dempsey Rd., 6479-6188, www.idle.com.sg. Available Thu 7pm-midnight. Clara Lim
37 Duxton Hill, 6690-7565, www.facebook.com/ TheVintageRoomSG. Available Thu 6pm-9pm.
#B2-05 South Crystal Pavilion, Marina Bay Sands, 2 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7448, www.pangaea.sg. Available midnight-1am.
Got an idea for On the Bar? Email us at nightlife@asia-city.com.sg
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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013
NigHtLifE
NigHtLifE dj gigs
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100% Bulletproof with Ghetto & Matthew and MC EJ Phuture’s new night (happens every 2nd Friday of the month) kicks off on National Day with DJs Ghetto and Matthew helming the decks with friendly mash-up, electro and hip-hop beats, accompanied by MC EJ. Aug 9, 10pm. Phuture, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988. $25-32 two drinks included.
I-S PICK
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Zouk Soundsystem presents Moguai with Formative German progressive house stalwart Moguai is back again this time with resident DJ Formative, for a night of uninhibited electro fun. Aug 16, 10pm. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 67382988. $25-32 two drinks included.
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VeryVary with Ming & DJR Come down, sing your heart out, and elevate a forearm to progressive house, electro and hip hop tunes in the glamorous underground with Ming and DJR. All bottled beers go at $12 and housepour bottles at $220 for 2+2 mixers. Aug 10, 9pm. Home Club, #B1-01/06 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd., 65382928. $15 one drink included.
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Spun DJ Event Dance collectives Karate Sandwich, Bucks and 44Beatz unleash the party mayhem that’s sure to fire up the floor. Aug 16, 9pm. Blu Jaz Café, 11 Bali Lane, 6292-3800. $0 first drink applies.
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I-S PICK> Forward Presents Aligned Series feat. Function Hit the club with Function (Dave Sumners), one of techno’s true underground heroes who has worked on cult music label Sandwell District, and recently presented his debut album Incubation in March. Aug 17, 10pm. Kyo, #B1-02 Keck Seng Tower, 133 Cecil St., 8299-8735. $20-25 one drink included.
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Transfix presents Ronski Speed with Hong Expect nothing less than an euphoric trance set when Speed hits the decks. Aug 17. Zouk, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988. $25-32 two drinks included.
Email event news to nightlife@asia-city.com.sg
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Wax On Wax Off Party favorites Cherry Chan, Kiat, Zul Othman and Kurt CTDK return for another night of grooves (vinyl only by the way) that will go down as smoothly as your tipple. Aug 17, 9:30pm. Loof, #03-07 Odeon Towers Extension Rooftop, 331 North Bridge Rd., 6338-8035. Free.
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ONE with Aldrin & Friends featuring Mr. Has DJ Aldrin and his mate, Mr Has (W Singapore Sentosa Cove’s Artistic Director) take over the console for a night of genre-bending dance music. Aug 17, 10pm. Velvet Underground, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988. $25-32 two drinks included.
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I-S PICK> Singapore Island Culture Club with Aldrin Devised to revive jaded clubbers and music enthusiasts from the soul-numbing clutches of modern life, Singapore Island Culture Club (SICC for short), is a series of parties hosted by Present Purpose and Aldrin, with fresh nu-music, fun and surprises on the menu. Aug 24, 10pm. Kyo, #B1-02 Keck Seng Tower, 133 Cecil St., 8299-8735. $20-25 one drink included.
HAPPY HOuRS
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Brewerkz (Indoor Stadium) From noon-3pm, a pint of Golden Ale and Wheat Beer is $6 and a jug is $14. From 3pm-6pm, a pint of India Pale Ale is $10 and a jug is $27. From 6pm-8pm, a pint of Oatmeal Stout is $13 and a jug is $36. Daily noon-3pm, 3-6pm, 6-8pm, 8-11pm, Brewerkz Indoor Stadium, #01-06/07/K1 Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, 6345-9905. www.brewerkz.com
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Fern & Kiwi Housepours at $10 nett from 4-7pm. Get free-flowing housepours at $40++ from 7-9pm. Daily 4-9pm. Fern & Kiwi - Bar and Eatery, #01-02 Blk. 3E River Valley Rd., 6336-2271.
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Halo Enjoy 1-for-1 on selected beers, housepour spirits and wines. The cocktail of the week is $10 nett a glass. Daily 5-9pm. Halo, 7/F Wangz Hotel, 231 Outram Rd., 65951388. www.wangzhotel.com
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J Bar 1-for-1 rum, vodka, gin, bourbon, white and red wine, Tiger pint, listed martinis and Champagne. Mon-Fri 3-8:30pm; Sun 5-8:30pm. J Bar, 9/F M Hotel Singapore, 81 Anson Rd., 6500-6119.
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Mr Punch Restaurant & Winebar Draft beers at $10 a pint, 25% off regular alcoholic beverages and 10% off bottle spirits and wines during happy hour and all night on Mondays and Tuesdays. Get 25% off all martinis all night on Wednesdays, 25% off mojitos all night on Thursdays and 25% off all signature cocktails all night on Fridays. Happy hour runs till 10pm on Saturdays, with Erdinger at $10 a pint. Mon-Sat 6-9pm; daily midnight-1am, 63345155. www.emint.com
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WOOBAR House pours, beers, spirits and wines are all 1-for-1 on weeknights. Mon-Thu 6-9pm. WOOBAR, W Singapore Sentosa Cove, W Singapore Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way (Sentosa Cove), 6808-7258.
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Zouk Winebar Happy hour means it's 1-for-1 on all drinks. Citibank Cardholders enjoy the same deal all night long. Tue-Sat 6-10pm. Zouk Winebar, 17 Jiak Kim St., 6738-2988.
Join us!
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Celebrate National Day at Ku Dé Ta For unrivalled views of the National Day fireworks and aerial flypast, hit up Ku Dé Ta. DJs Joshua P and Ramesh deliver crowd-pleasing tunes while the bar puts out the special Scarlet 48 cocktail for the occasion. No dress code restrictions if you arrive before 9pm. Aug 9, 5pm. KU DÉ TA, 57/F Marina Bay Sands, Marina Bay Sands Skypark, North Tower 1, 1 Bayfront Ave., 6688-7688. $38-48 one drink included.
Home Club, Mystic Vintage and Leftfoot Pres. Flash! Mystic Vintage, Leftfoot and the Home Crew bring you some vintage and retro flavors in the form of pop, rock and new wave tunes. Aug 10, 10pm. Home Club, #B1-01/06 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd., 6538-2928. 15 one drink included.
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I-S PICK
National Day at Catalunya Catch the National Day fireworks without getting all sweaty at Spanish restaurant Catalunya’s party, which offers an unobstructed view of the parade. There’ll be an after-party with homegrown DJ Suren, too. Aug 9, 5pm. Catalunya, The Fullerton Pavilion, 82 Collyer Quay, 6534-0188. 28 including one drink.
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Catalunya
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I-S PICK> National Day Weekend Special: State Cool club Kyo is celebrating National Day and the long weekend with not one but two parties aptly coined as State, where homegrown DJs including Brendon P, Norman C and Shigeki take to the decks for a multitude of sonic experiences. Aug 9-10, 10pm. Kyo, #B1-02 Keck Seng Tower, 133 Cecil St., 8299-8735. $20-25 one drink included.
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Dressed to the Nines – The 9th Anniversary Party After nine years of keeping it real, Home celebrates this birthday in true tailored fashion. Manning the decks is Kevin Ford, aka DJ Hype, resident DJ of London’s most successful club, Fabric. The line-up also includes MC Daddy Earl, Ming, Nez, Twinhead and Rozac MC. Aug 17, 9pm. Home Club, #B1-01/06 The Riverwalk, 20 Upper Circular Rd., 6538-2928. $25 one drink included.
60 SECONDS Mario Basanov This golden boy of dance music is the latest name that’s bridging the gap between house, techno and disco. He speaks to us before his much-anticipated debut, where he will play an astounding eight-hour set.
Dance music is... always exciting. The last track that blew my mind was... Lonely Boy’s “Shut Your Mouth”. I’d like to collaborate with... Stevie Wonder. Wow, that would be amazing. If I had a million bucks I would... buy myself the ultimate studio. My guilty pleasure is... Coca Cola and cigarettes. God is a DJ because.... I'm not sure he is a DJ, actually. Terry Ong Tanjong Beach Club Presents Mario Basanov is on Aug 17, 4pm-midnight. Tanjong Beach Club, 120 Tanjong Beach Walk, 6270-1355, www.tanjongbeachclub.com. Free.
fiLM Email film news to film@asia-city.com.sg
fiLM continuing 3096 Days • (Australia) Based on the real-life tragedy of Natascha Kampusch, who was kidnapped and held for eight years in a cellar. B.E.D. • (Korea) Lame sex comedy involving a bunch of horny, young firemen. Before Midnight • (US) The conversations are fun, but the magic has long gone from this talky Richard Linklater film. Stars Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy. I-S PICK> No • (Chile/Mexico) Lo-fi political about Chile’s efforts to overthrow dictator Augusto Pinochet. Stars Gael Garcia Bernal. Disconnect • (US) The stories of six individuals whose lives are shattered by the ills of modern technology are explored in this indie flick directed by Henry Alex Tubin (Murderball). Ecstasy • (UK) Based on Irvine Welsh’s Ecstasy: Three Tales of Chemical Romance, this is a solid adaptation of doomed romance spurred by chemical reactions. The Heat • (US) Sandra Bullock relives her Miss Congeniality persona in this buddy crime flick alongside Melissa McCarthy. Jan Dara: The Finale • (Thailand) The last in a trilogy of pointless, skin excess. Lone Ranger • (US) Even Johnny Depp can’t save this mess. Man of Taichi • (US) Keanu Reeves directing (and starring) in a kung fu film. It doesn’t get any worse. Pacific Rim • (US) Guillermo Del Toro’s (Pan’s Labyrinth) latest foray for Hollywood is a predictable action film about a war between robots and sea creatures.
Tales from the Dark • (Hong Kong) This collection of six short horror films from some of Hong Kong’s biggest directors like Fruit Chan and Teddy Robin is a hitand-miss affair.
The Rooftop • (Taiwan) Jay Chou stars and directs his second vehicle with lots of song and dance numbers, unlike his mushy debut Secret.
I
(US) Directed by James Wan. Stars Stuart Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Lili Taylor and R on Livingston. Continuing.
Vehicle 19 • (US) Paul Walker helms this ho-hum thriller about a man recently release on parole embroiled in police corruption. Welcome to the Punch • (UK/ US) With James McAvoy, Mark Strong and Andrea Riseborough headlining, this actioner about an-criminal and the cop who’s still after him is a joyride. The Wolverine • (US) Hugh Jackman reprises a hackneyed role. World War Z • (US) Disappointing sci-fi about a plague that turns earth’s inhabitants into zombies. Stars Brad Pitt. Yossi • (Israel) Homosexualthemed drama about blossoming love between a lonely doctor and a young soldier. Killing Season • (US) Robert DeNiro and John Travolta in a rare collaboration in a war movie.
opening Red 2 • (US) The sequel to the surprisingly entertaining actioner features more misdemeanours from retired CIA operatives played by Bruce Willis, Helen Mirren and John Malkovich. The Reluctant Fundamentalist • (US) A young Pakistani has a go at Wall Street in this thriller directed by Mira Nair. R.I.P.D • (US) Jeff Bridges and Ryan Reynolds take on aliens in this comedy-action epic. We Are What We Are • (Mexico) Gory indie horror film about a family of cannibals.
Who would have thought that the director of torture porn gore fest Saw could come up with something so subdued and old-fashioned? (Scary we're not surprised by.) James Wan has immaculately drawn from classic scare flicks The Changeling, The Exorcist, Poltergeist, The Amityville Horror and The Birds for a potent tale of evil spirits and demonic possessions built on mood and dread for what is, arguably, the most terrifying horror film of the last decade (and perhaps one ups some of these originals). Even the title gives us the creeps. Set in 1971 and based on true events, the film takes it time to unfold the lives of the Perron family (father Roger, mother Carolyn and their five daughters) after their move into a haunted house. Clocks stop precisely at 3:07am every morning, doors open and close of their own accord, strange noises abound in the middle of the night and the youngest child claims that she has an imaginary friend—you get the drift. But when things start to escalate for the worse—that is, when the spirits begin to physically attack the Perrons, a desperate Carolyn enlists the help of paranormal investigators and couple Ed (Patrick Wilson) and Lorraine Warren (Vera Farmiga) to investigate the house. (Trivia:
They were the same couple involved in the equally real "Amityville Horror" case). Lorraine digs up the details of the house's tragic history (involving a maniacal witch called Bathsheba who slaughters young children for kicks) and, eventually, an exorcism is in order when Carolyn gets possessed. Sure the plot may not be anything new, but director Wan manages to conjure inventive ways to scare audiences, including one involving a wooden closet (you won’t be able to look at antique furniture the same way again) and another, a children’s “handclap game”, among many other haunting sequences. The strong cast also allows the movie to proceed smoothly at a less-thanbreakneck pace. Wilson and Farmiga bring much warmth to Ed and Lorraine's relationship, while Farmiga adds a haunted quality to Lorraine (the scenes where she actually “sees” the unknown are truly eerie). Indie stalwart Taylor is also superb as the tormented Carolyn, and her possession sequences are some of the most realistic in recent memory. All that coupled with a spine-tingling score by Joseph Bishara, who coincidentally enough, plays the role of the witch, makes this a superbly crafted old school horror motion picture. Terry Ong
I-S PICK
Penthouse North • (US) Michael Keaton returns to the big screen in this pedestrian thriller about a photojournalist stalked by a sadistic criminal. Redemption • (US/UK) Jason Statham can’t help being stereotyped—but it works. He stars as ex-soldier seeking redemption in this fastpaced action drama.
The Conjuring
etc
I’m So Excited • (Spain) Pedro Almodovar lightens his load with this screwball comedy about a zany flight. Stars Antonio Banderas and Penelope Cruz.
I-S PICK> 10th Singapore Short Cuts • Catch short films by budding filmmakers in this popular showcase in its 10th year, spanning various genres from drama and comedy to experimental. Aug 10-11, 2pm. Gallery Theatre, National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd., 6332-5642. Free. I-S PICK> Autumn Moon • (Hong Kong/Japan) Part of National Museum’s World Cinema Series, the film by Clara Law explore the budding relationship between a wayward young girl and a
Japanese tourist, set in Hong Kong. Aug 13, 7:30pm. Gallery Theatre, National Museum of Singapore, 93 Stamford Rd., 6332-5642. $9 from Sistic. Menstrual Man • (Singapore) Emotive documentary charting the efforts of to improve the lives of the villagers in Nadupatty, Tamil Nadu. Directed by Amit Virmani. Aug 14-21, various times. The Arts House, 1 Old Parliament lane, 6332-6903. $10 from Bytes. I-S PICK> Films at the Fort • Not only will you will be able to catch the rare documentary Everything or Nothing: The Untold Story of 007 about the Bond
franchise, Oscar-winning Silver Linings Playbook will get a comeback screening alongside the ‘80s classic Top Gun. Fans of local films will also get to catch short films by upcoming directors. Aug 22-25, 7:30pm, Fort Canning Green, www.filmsatthefort.com.sg, $19.80 from Sistic, $24.80 at the door. 21st Israel Film Festival • Watch little-known gems from Israel at the festival, including We are Not Alone, Fill the Void and Dusk. Aug 28- Sep 3, various times. The Cathay, 2 Handy Rd., 6736-7310. Log onto www.cathay.com. sg for more details and to buy tickets.
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FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I-S MAGAZINE
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CLASSIFIEDS freewill astrology
Mr. KNOW‑IT‑ALL Our Favorite Smart Aleck Answers Your Questions Dear Mr KIA, Everyone’s on Instagram lately but it would be nice to take some quality shots with an old fashioned film camera. Perhaps you would know where I could get one? Anna Cam Dear Anna Cam, Get your fix of nostalgia at 8storeytree (#0132 Sunshine Plaza, 91 Bencoolen St., 63376916, www.8storeytree.com). They’ve got an
especially good selection of Polaroid cameras including the classic Polariod SX-70 ($400), a folding single lens reflex camera from 1972, plus lots of film options such as Fujifilm Natura 1600 ($17), an ultra high speed film. For kooky old school cameras, check out Peek (#01-04/#02-04, 36 Armenian St, 6884-4844, www.peek-ture.com). Neon-colored beauties like the Blackbird Fly ($185), a cool twin-lens reflex camera, which dates back to the 1920s, are definitely worth a look.
LEO (Jul 23-Aug 22): Sergei Diaghilev was a Russian ballet impresario who founded Ballets Russes, one of the 20th century’s great ballet companies. At one point in his career he met French playwright Jean Cocteau. Diaghilev dared Cocteau to write a piece for a future Ballets Russes production. “Astonish me!” he said. It took seven years, but Cocteau met the challenge. He created Parade, a ballet that also featured music by Eric Satie and sets by Pablo Picasso. Now let’s pretend I’m Diaghilev and you’re Cocteau. Imagine that I’ve just told you, “Astonish me!” How will you respond? What surprising beauty will you come up with? What marvels will you unleash?
VIRGO (Aug 23-Sep 22): Since 1948, the chemical known as warfarin has been used as a pesticide to poison rats. Beginning in 1954, it also became a medicine prescribed to treat thrombosis and other blood ailments in humans. Is there anything in your own life that resembles warfarin? A person or an asset or an activity that can either be destructive or constructive, depending on the situation? The time will soon be right for you to employ that metaphorical version of warfarin in both capacities. Make sure you’re very clear about which is which. LIBRA (Sep 23-Oct 22): “My heart was a hysterical, unreliable organ,” wrote Vladimir Nabokov in his novel Lolita. We have all gone through phases when we could have uttered a similar statement. But I doubt that this is one of those times for you, Libra. On the contrary. I suspect your heart is very smart right now—poised and lucid and gracious. In fact, I suggest you regard the messages coming from your heart as more trustworthy than any other part of you—wiser than your head and your gut and your genitals put together.
HEALTH & BEAUTY
SCORPIO (Oct 23-Nov 21): The Holy Grail of skateboarding tricks is called the 1080. To pull it off, a skateboarder has to do three complete 360-degree revolutions in mid-air and land cleanly. No one had ever pulled it off until 12-year-old Tom Schaar did it in 2012. Since then, two other teenage boys have managed the same feat. But I predict that a Scorpio skateboarder will break the record sometime soon, managing a 1260, or three and a half full revolutions. Why? First, because your tribe is unusually geared to accomplish peak performances right now. And second, you have a knack for doing complex maneuvers that require a lot of concentration. SAGITTARIUS (Nov 22-Dec 21): Can you think of ways that you have been colonized? Have any powerful institutions filled up your brain with ideas and desires that aren’t in alignment with your highest values? For instance, has your imagination gotten imprinted with conditioning that makes you worry that your body’s not beautiful enough or your bank account’s not big enough or your style isn’t cool enough? If so, Sagittarius, the coming weeks will be an excellent time to get uncolonized. There has rarely been a better time than now to purge any brainwashing that puts you at odds with your deepest self. CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 19): An old Chinese poem tells us that “the true measure of a mountain’s greatness is not its height but whether it is charming enough to attract dragons.” You and I know there are no such things as dragons, so we can’t take this literally. But what if we treat it as we might a fairy tale? I suggest we draw a metaphorical meaning from it and apply it to your life. Let’s say that you shouldn’t be impressed with how big and strong anything is; you shouldn’t give your mojo to people or institutions simply because they have worldly power. Rather, you will be best served by aligning yourself with what’s mysterious and fabulous. You’re more likely to have fun and generate good fortune for yourself by seeking out stories that appeal to your soul instead of your ego.
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I-S MAGAZINE FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013
Week of August 9 © 2012 Rob Brezsny
AQUARIUS (Jan 20-Feb 18): The questions you have been asking aren’t terrible. But they could be formulated better. They might be framed in such a way as to encourage life to give you crisp insights you can really use rather than what you’ve been getting lately, which are fuzzy conjectures that are only partially relevant. Would you like some inspiration? See if any of these inquiries help hone your spirit of inquiry. 1. What kind of teacher or teaching do you need the most right now? 2. What part of you
is too tame, and what can you do about it? 3. What could you do to make yourself even more attractive and interesting to people than you already are? 4. What is the pain that potentially has the most power to awaken your dormant intelligence? PISCES (Feb 19-Mar 20): “There are some enterprises in which a careful disorderliness is the true method.” So says Ishmael, the hero of Herman Melville’s 19th-century novel Moby Dick. He is ostensibly referring to whale hunting, which is his job, but some modern critics suggest he’s also talking about the art of storytelling. I suspect his statement applies to a certain enterprise you are currently engaged in, as well. Can you wrap your mind and heart around the phrase “careful disorderliness,” Pisces? I hope so, because I think it’s the true method. Here are some other terms to describe it: benevolent chaos; strategic messiness; purposeful improvisation; playful experiments. ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 19): To add zest to mealtime, you might choose food that has been seasoned with red chili peppers, cumin or other piquant flavors. Some chimpanzees have a similar inclination, which is why they like to snack on red fire ants. Judging from the astrological omens, I’m guessing you are currently in a phase when your attraction to spicy things is at a peak—not just for dinner but in other areas of your life, as well. I have a suggestion: Pursue rowdy fun with adventures that have metaphorical resemblances to red chili peppers, but stay away from those that are like red fire ants. TAURUS (Apr 20-May 20): The 19th-century English artist John Constable specialized in painting landscapes. The countryside near his home especially excited him. He said, “The sound of water escaping from mill dams, willows, old rotten planks, slimy posts, and brickwork, I love such things. They made me a painter, and I am grateful.” Take a cue from Constable, Taurus. Spend quality time appreciating the simple scenes and earthy pleasures that nourish your creative spirit. Give your senses the joy of getting filled up with vivid impressions. Immerse yourself in experiences that thrill your animal intelligence. GEMINI (May 21-Jun 20): This is Grand Unification Week for you Geminis. If your left hand has been at war with your right hand, it’s a perfect moment to declare a truce. If your head and heart have not been seeing eye-to-eye, they are ready to find common ground and start conspiring together for your greater glory. Are there any rips or rifts in your life? You will generate good fortune for yourself if you get to work on healing them. Have you been alienated from an ally or at odds with a beloved dream or separated from a valuable resource? You have a lot of power to fix glitches like those. CANCER (Jun 21-Jul 22): In an episode of the TV show Twin Peaks, special agent Dale Cooper gives the following advice to his colleague Harry: “I’m going to let you in on a little secret. Every day, once a day, give yourself a present. Don’t plan it, don’t wait for it, just let it happen.” Now I’m passing on this advice to you, Cancerian. It’s a perfect time for you to try out this fun game. You are in a phase of your astrological cycle when you’ll be wise to intensify your commitment to self-care…and deepen your devotion to making yourself feel good…and increase your artistry at providing yourself with everything you need to thrive.
LAST WORD WHAT’S NEW AT
Colin Goh
Online
The CEO of The Arts House recently led the Asia on the Edge delegation in Hong Kong and is one of our most illustrious arts administrators. He talks to Terry Ong about his quirks and eccentricities. Singaporeans are a quirky bunch. I find the act of “chopeing” tables with packets of tissue quite ridiculous. I once took a tissue packet and started wiping the tables with it. I thought it was from the hawker stall but ended being scolded for not being a Singaporean.
In hindsight, it was a success to a large degree as we were all part of the drive to push Singapore’s musicals abroad. But financing was almost non-existent and we ended up losing lots of money. I wanted to be a priest at a very young age. That is, until I met my wife.
Another is queuing up for almost My most amazing art experience everything—the longer the queue, was also my first, which has the better the perceived left quite an indelible value of the item mark. It was the play that they are Metamorphosis that It must queuing up for. I watched at the
be good if University of Adelaide Though I must in 1986, based on confess I’m everyone Berkoff´s adaptation guilty of it too. is queuing, of Kafka´s novel. I once stood in right? line hoping to get It was simply a Hello Kitty for my stunning watching daughter. Not my fault: a monologue for the first I thought it must be good if time and seeing how theater everyone is queuing, right? transforms and explores the inner I started off as a “professional beggar” with the Community Chest and it is something that I continue to do. Then I moved to an exhibition and design company and was asked to construct props for art companies like the Singapore Lyric Opera and Singapore Repertory Theatre. Then strangely in 1994, I was posted to Pacific Theatricals, a local theater company and became the associate producer for Bugis Street: The Musical, without any inclinations of how musicals worked!
There is an association called the International Perfume Bottle Association made up of a large group of like-minded collectors who are passionate about this subject. Not sure who in Singapore might be keen to form a chapter here? Being part of a non‑profit arts group, there is no recession, because you’re always in recession. There’s no retrenchment because you’re always trying to recruit someone. And there’s no retirement, as there’s always somebody to help and you can go on and on for a long time. Anyone wants to join us?
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Dance Off
10 hours of dancing for the charities of your choice? Makes a change from ZoukOut. We find out more from the organizers. is.gd/wewilldancesginterview
Slice of Heaven
Our favorite dessert pies and where to find them. is.gd/bestdessertpiessg
thoughts that often lay dominant within one’s sub-conscious.
Hot Stuff
I’m rather philosophical about life and see it as a continuum. It starts at the same point and ends at the same point. The in-between are experiences to share, memories to remember and legacies to leave behind. Nothing else matters. Strangely enough, I collect perfume bottles. I like scent. I admire the bottles for their fancy shapes and designs.
THE INCREDIBLE LIGHTNESS OF WORKING
Milk the rest of summer for all its worth—book one of our recommended resorts for a quick vacation. is.gd/ISsummertravelguide
by doubleXUAN
I-S Magazine is distributed every 2nd and 4th Friday. Look for the next issue of I-S on Aug 23. FRIDAY, AUGUST 9, 2013 I‑S MAGAZINE
37
AUG/2013
09/08 ZOUK
ZSS presents Cazzette with Hong
09/08 PHUTURE
100% Bulletproof with Ghetto & Matthew feat. MC Garuda
10/08 ZOUK
ZSS presents FORMATIVE & Hong
11/08
17/08
Flea & Easy x Public Garden Presenting the launch of ZOUKIDISCO 2PM - 7PM
ONE with Aldrin & Friends feat. Mr Has
VELVET UNDERGROUND-DANCE
ZOUK COMPLEX
SWE
23/08 ZOUK
16/08 ZOUK
ZSS presents Moguai with FORMATIVE
GER
17/08 ZOUK
Transfix presents Ronski Speed GER with Hong
17/08 PHUTURE
Big Tease with Matthew & Rough
ZSS presents Promise Land ITA, with FORMATIVE
SG DEBUT!
23/08
VELVET UNDERGROUND-DANCE
Para//el presents Jeremy Boon, Hong & Adrian Wee