Weekender #18

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FEBRUARY 8 - 14, 2013

WEEKENDER YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND filled with FUN AND HAPPINESS

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VENTS

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

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All events are correct at time of print.

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02 • WEEKENDER • February 8 - 14, 2013

wonderland Usher in the Year of the Snake with the sun, sand, sea and a million blooms on Sentosa In its eighth year, Sentosa Flowers 2013 will be setting flower beds by the beach for the very first time. Spanning over 4.5 hectares, equivalent to almost fiveand-a-half football fields, the much anticipated Lunar New Year event stretching from Beach Station to Palawan Beach on Sentosa Island will transform its golden sands into a colourful floral wonderland, filled with seasonal blooms and larger-than-life floral displays. This year, Sentosa Island’s gardeners will piece together a giant floral carpet measuring 50 metres by 25 metres, made out of 1,000 species, varieties and cultivar of Spring flowers. Catch the imposing Rainbow Snake floral mural that will be displayed at the Sentosa Flowers 2013 event entrance to welcome visitors in auspicious style. In celebration of Valentine’s Day, Sentosa Flowers 2013 will also feature four specially-created floral zones depicting the “Seasons of L.O.V.E” theme, where loved ones can gather to experience the beauty of Spring,

Summer, Autumn and Winter floral displays. The “Winter Love Zone” will be represented by a larger-than-life floral snowflake photo-point. Do bring along your cameras to capture precious picture-perfect moments with your loved ones, as you bask in sunny floral bloom at Sentosa Flowers 2013. Sentosa Flowers 2013 is a rain or shine event. Sentosa Flowers 2013 is on from Feb 9 to 17, 10am to 10pm, at Beach Station and Palawan Beach, Sentosa Island. Tickets are priced at $5 for adult, while children under the age of 12 enter for free. Sentosa Island admission is payable separately. For more information or enquiries, go to www.sentosa.com or call 1800-7368672.

Food Photography

Exhibition by Dr Leslie Tay

16 to 24 Feb, exhibition, ; workshops, $28 with afternoon tea

Earth Hour 2013 23 Mar, 8.30pm, $10-$20

Do your part for the earth and take part in this year’s Earth Hour. For the first time you play an active role in powering up the event held at The Float @Marina Bay by busting a move on energy absorbing pads to convert kinetic energy produced to electricity. This energy will be used to power an outdoor film screening, organised as part of Earth Hour’s activities for the night, in celebration of the world’s hope and commitment towards a low carbon future. Other activities for the evening also include an eco-carnival and concert. The Float @Marina Bay, 20 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039805

Food photography has been reserved for professionals until recently. The confluence of smartphones and social media has empowered millions of foodies around the world to share photos of what they’ve eaten with friends, to the minute. Singapore is one of the pioneers in such food photography and these workshops that Dr Leslie Tay of ieatishootipost.sg has been conducting. They have even been featured on CNN. This is the first exhibition of such food photography. Millenia Walk Atrium, 9 Raffles Boulevard, Singapore 039596

The Script Concert

Creative

Calligraphy 7.30pm-9pm, $100 Join Guinness World Record holder Wu Sheng Ping, who currently holds the record for writing the largest calligraphy piece in the world, in lessons of creative calligraphy. Calligraphy is not only done with a brush - the master will teach you how to paint with daily items like slippers, rubber, tile, toothbrushes and even household objects like mops and brooms. Class times can be catered to your personal preference. Those interested can call 93825938.

Zhu Wei: Solo Exhibition

29 Mar, 8pm, $98-$148

Until 5 Mar, 11am-7pm Principally trained in Chinese ink and colour on paper, Zhu Wei is known for his subtle critique of social politics in rapidlyevolving China. His paintings are inspired from the

The Gamelatron Jalan Jiwo Until 10 Mar, Tue-Sat, 11am-7pm; Sun, 11am-6pm

Irish band The Script has a knack for combining poetic lyrics with fresh melodies to create your next favourite song. They have racked up a handful of hits such as We Cry, Breakeven and The Man Who Can’t Be Moved. Having opened for legends like U2 and Paul McCartney, they’ve gone from being the band next door to taking on sold-out arenas. Tickets from Sistic. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397691

Experience Aaron Taylor Kuffner’s artistic sound installation entitled The Gamelatron Jalan Jiwo. The artist is an American conceptual sound installation artist who studied ancient Balinese music while living in Indonesia. His installations, comprising an orchestra of handcrafted percussion instruments, are derived from the traditional Balinese gamelan. Kuffner both preserves and reinterprets this Indonesian tradition and his works have been shown and performed worldwide. Gillman Barracks, 5 Lock Road, 01-05, Singapore 108933

Yuan Dynasty, an era where neutrality or ‘blandness’ is indicative of the pinnacle of artistic achievement. His calm and minimalistic compositions feature dramatic brush strokes with barely any hint of excess. MOCA @Loewen, 27A Loewen Road, Singapore 248839


FebruarY 8 - 14, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 03

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

All events are correct at time of print.

W If you would like your event listed, please email the details and pictures (where applicable) to

events@weekender.com.sg 2 weeks before your event date.

Listings must arrive in email Wednesday two weeks before publication. Listings are free but, as space is limited, inclusion is not guaranteed. Nevertheless, we try our best to include every listing possible.

free admission Art Outreach Art Tours of Gillman Barracks Until 10 Mar, except 9 & 10 Feb, Sat, 11am-1pm & 4pm-6pm; Sun, 4pm-6pm Get a comprehensive overview of art in Gillman Barracks by joining free art tours led by Art Outreach. The tours will visit a selection of galleries there. Held in conjunction with Art Stage Singapore and as part of the Singapore Tourism Board’s Art Week initiative. Gillman Barracks, Block 1, Lock Road, Singapore 108932 Rainforest Tour 9 Feb, 9am, 10am & 11am Discover the enchantment of tropical forests at this first-come-first-serve tour by volunteer guides. Singapore Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre, 1 Cluny Road, Singapore 259569 Saturday Night Movies at ION Orchard Last Sat of the month, 10pm ION Orchard screens movies on its massive outdoor panels, for free. First started in conjunction with the Singapore Tourism Board's late-night shopping festival in February 2010, the movies have proven to be a popular attraction and have continued, drawing shoppers and passers-by. The last movie that was screened, on the last Saturday of January, was Prometheus. Come, enjoy the next movie on ION Orchard's giant LED facade. To confirm the screening time and movie, call 6238 8228. ION Orchard, 2 Orchard Turn, Singapore 238801 Spring Clean Your Wardrobe for a Good Cause Until 24 Feb, 11am-8pm In partnership with The Salvation Army, Parkway Parade is offering shoppers a $2 shopping voucher in exchange for every 3kg of pre-loved clothing from at Level 1 (limited to five vouchers per shopper). The items will be donated to the disadvantaged and needy. Parkway Parade, 80 Marine Parade Road, Singapore 449269 Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve Guided Walk 9, 16 & 23 Feb, 9.30am & 3.30pm Families and children can join this guided walk to learn about the interesting web of life of Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve’s inhabitants. Sungei Buloh Nature Reserve Visitor Centre, 301 Neo Tiew Crescent, Singapore 718925 Thai Food Cooking Demonstration 11 Feb, 1.30pm-3pm Thai food dishes are delicious and healthy as a variety of garden herbs are used. Join the chef at the cooking demonstration, to learn about these herbs and to prepare Thai dishes such as the Papaya Salad, Thai Green Curry Chicken and Rainbow Dragon Ball dessert. Singapore Philatelic Museum, 23-B Coleman Street, Singapore 79807

ticketed admission

9 Squares – A double bill 15–17 Feb, 3.30pm & 7.30pm (15 Feb only 7.30pm), $15 Gin Nah by Isaac Tan questions Singapore about the kind of children we are educating and nurturing. The play features nine students as they air their grievances on their lives as a kid. Through the complaints

and ranting the characters of the students are slowly revealed, and it offers food for thought for both the youth and adults. Navarasa by Vishnucharan Naidu is an emotionfilled piece featuring a 17-year journey of acceptance. Guided by the nine Hindu principle emotions of the human body expressions of strength, compassion, laughter, wonder, anger, fear, disgust, love and peace, this play covers the struggles of people in everyday life and how they can overcome them. Goodman Arts Centre, 90 Goodman Road, Singapore 439053 All In! Young Writers Media Festival 23-24 Feb, 10am-5pm, seminar, $30; per workshop, $30 The All In! Young Writers Media Festival is an annual festival for aspiring writers between the ages of 16 and 25. Join us as we bring writers from a variety of fields – playwriting, blogging, creative writing, screenwriting and journalism, among others – to meet and mingle with today’s young writers. The programme will include a full-day seminar as well as four intensive workshops for different writing crafts. All In! is organised by the National Book Development Council of Singapore. Visit www.bookcouncil.sg/all-in for more information. ASEAN Basketball League: Singapore Slingers vs Saigon Heat 17 Feb, 3pm, $8-$18 Come out and experience a show of top-class hoop action when the Singapore Slingers battle against the best professional basketball teams in the ASEAN Basketball League. Cheer on your home team at the Singapore Slingers vs Saigon Heat at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. Tickets from Sistic. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397691 Cendre et Sang (Movie) 19 Feb, 8pm, $7.20 Cendre et Sang (Ashes and Blood) tells a story of Judith, exiled from her country since her husband’s murder ten years earlier. She lives in Marseille with her three children and is estranged from her family. After having refused to see her family for years, Judith, in spite of her fears and secrets, allows herself to be influenced by her children’s wishes and accepts an invitation to their cousin’s wedding. They set off to spend a summer in the old country, discovering their roots and their past. But Judith’s return revives old hatreds between rival clans. The spiral of violence is inexorably set in motion. Tickets from Sistic. Alliance Francaise Theatre, 1 Sarkies Road, Singapore 258130 Cookies for Charity Until 9 Feb, 11am-11pm, $10 A mere $10 for a box of almond cookies goes a long way for the Meal and Grocery Programme for the needy and elderly living in the Kreta-Ayer-Kim Seng Constituency. This event is held by Asia Pacific Breweries Singapore. Chinatown Chinese New Year Celebrations Festive Street Bazaar, between People’s Park Complex and OG Chinatown Cliff Richards: Still Reelin’ and Rockin’ 25-26 Feb, 7.30pm, $88-$228 Cliff Richards is set to return to Singapore with a hit-packed, Still Reelin’ and A-Rockin’ tour. Celebrating his 54th anniversary in the music business this year, this Peter Pan of Pop is coming for two shows only. The show is a musical journey including all the greatest hits such as Living Doll, Devil Woman, We Don’t Talk Anymore, Dreamin’, and Wired for Sound. Tickets from Sistic. Grand Theatre, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956 From Lascaux to Van Gogh: A Crash Course in Art History 14 Feb to 28 Mar, 7pm-9pm, $240 Taking a chronological perspective, this course offers a fundamental overview of Western art from the cave paintings at Lascaux to Van Gogh and the Post-Impressionist. It will cover all the major periods and styles in Western art history, from the Ancient era to the Classical age. This course will highlight the lives and works of some of the great artists in Western art, such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rembrandt, Goya, Rodin, Monet and Van Gogh. Lasalle College of the Arts, 1 McNally Street, Singapore 187940 Fun. Live in Singapore 15 Mar, 8pm, $68 Fun. is among the most nominated artists for the upcoming 55th Annual Grammy Awards, earning six nominations. The New Yorkbased band’s acclaimed debut has spawned worldwide number one single We Are Young. The band’s song has also been featured on FOX TV series Glee. The Coliseum, Hard Rock Hotel Singapore, 8 Sentosa Gateway, Singapore 098269 Huayi 2013: 12 Angry Men 15-17 Feb, 2.30pm and 8pm, $35 (Mandarin with English subtitles) An intense quarrel at midnight leads to a murder. Witnesses take the stand as a 16-year-old son is tried for homicide. With all testimonies against the boy, his

fate now hangs by a thread as the twelve jurors find themselves in the throes of rendering the final verdict. Based on the original teleplay of the same name, this adaptation takes you deep into the tensions of this compelling courtroom drama classic as the jurors grapple to reach a decision. Tickets from Sistic. Esplanade Theatre Studio, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981 Incanto Until 10 Mar, 4pm & 8pm, $48-$148 A curious young traveller enters a strange monastery, the gateway to a hidden dimension of mystery and illusion. Guided by the whimsical Jester, the traveller’s innocence attracts the fearful Dungeon Master, mortal enemy of the Sorcerer – played by Joe Labero – wizard of the mystical arts. Follow the thrilling adventures until the final showdown between Good and Evil. Tickets from Sistic. Festive Grand Theatre, 4 Gateway Ave, Singapore 099591

Jeffrey Bernard is Unwell 27 Feb-2 Mar, 8pm, $19-$37 This play affectionately chronicles the life of a womanising alcoholic and gambling addict, Jeffrey. Described as a self-destructive and compulsive Lothario, this play will regale, enchant and entice you into his world. Jeff is joined by a cast of ex-wives, mistresses, fellow gamblers, hardened boozers and various unsavoury characters to help celebrate a life well lived. DBS Arts Centre, Singapore Repertory Theatre, 20 Merbau Road, Singapore 239035

Mission Foods Beach Netball Festival 3 Mar, 9am-6pm, $90 per team Join this beach netball tournament with a top prize of $1,000 cash. There are three categories: Women Under 23 – JC and tertiary institutions only; Women Open – ages 18 and above; Mixed Open – ages 18 and above. The game will be played according to street netball rules, on half-courts with four players per team. No position bibs will be used while only two members from each team are allowed in the circle at any one time. Each team will have six minutes to outscore their opponents. Register now at www.netball.org.sg to join in the fun. Siloso Beach, Sentosa My First Clay Mug (Workshop) 13 Feb, 2pm-3.30pm, $35 Create your own ceramic mug that expresses your very own personality and taste. In a friendly environment with experienced ceramicists, you will transform a pre-formed clayshape into a functional, usable mug. No prior knowledge of ceramics is required. Pre-booking is required at info@goodmanceramicstudio.com or 97265210. Goodman Ceramic Studio, 90 Goodman Road, Block F, Singapore 439053

Soorya presents, Krishna: The Dance Musical (English) 8 Feb, 7.30pm, $40-$100 Join acclaimed dancer Padmashri Shobana and her group of dancers as they take you on a magical journey based on the chronicles of the Hindu deity Krishna. Featuring voice-overs in English by famous film personalities including Surya, Konkona Sen, Shabana Azmi and Nandita Das, this musical will leave you breathless with its eclectic blend of classical, folk and Bollywood dancing with brilliant costumes and visual effects. Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981

EVENT

Ruthless Romans (Horrible Histories Live) 10 Feb, 10am & 12pm, $41-$61 From the Horrible Histories Live series, journey to exciting ancient Roman Britain, where you will meet the famous gladiator Spartacus, and see the intelligent tactics and strategy of the fearsome Roman Legion. This history with a difference comes complete with songs and audience participation. Ruthless Romans is suitable for all children aged seven and above. This is also part of the Kids Fest! Singapore 2013. DBS Arts Centre, 20 Merbau Road, Singapore 239035 Russell Peters: Notorious World Tour 2013 25 Mar, 8pm, $98-$188 Famous Canadian-Indian comedian Russell Peters is back in Singapore once again, with his Notorious World Tour. Known for his standup comedy that pokes fun at cultural differences as well as his own Indian upbringing, his act guarantees much more than just a few laughs. His previous two tours to Singapore saw sold-out crowds for his performances. This time, there will be similar material to his last appearance here, with further additional notes from Russell. Tickets from Sistic. Singapore Indoor Stadium, 2 Stadium Walk, Singapore 397691 Tiffany Alvord Concert 16 Mar, 7pm, $38-$78 Tiffany Alvord is known, especially but not only online, for her upbeat and lively singing. YouTube sensation Alvord has already achieved stardom with more than one million subscribers and over 200 million views of her YouTube channel. Some of her original hit songs include My Heart Is, The Breakdown and Baby I Love You. Tiffany Alvord released her latest album last November. Tickets from Sistic. SCO Concert Hall, 7 Shenton Way, Singapore 068810 Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra 15 Mar, 7.30pm, $40-$80 Part of the Mosaic festival, the Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra (TSPO) plays both original songs and interpretations of well-known songs like the Love Theme from the Godfather and Duke Ellington’s In a Sentimental Mood. Expect nothing less than high-energy, high-octane ska madness. Esplanade Concert Hall, 1 Esplanade Drive, Singapore 038981

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All events listed here are accurate at the the time of print, or are listed as stated by the organisers. Please check with the relevant organisers and contacts for more information and to book tickets.

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Le Noir 12-29 Mar, various times, $35-$185 Direct from a sellout season in Tokyo comes Le Noir, an extraordinary evening of intimate cirque-style entertainment, starring some of the most incredible acrobatic acts to have ever performed. Designed and built specifically for the MasterCard Theatre at Marina Bay Sands, audiences will be immersed in an extraordinary visual feast that uses metaphors of white, red as well as black to describe the diverse range of our personalities. MasterCard Theatre, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956 Love Scents: Love is In The Air 17 Feb, 9.30am-12.30pm, $28 Through this event, participants will understand the use of aromatherapy and how it can be used to create the mood for romance. Instead of giving your true love a bouquet of roses this Valentine’s Day, perhaps you could switch things up with a bottle of rose essential oil. Participants will also get to make an Aroma Clay handicraft using recycled paper clay, dried leaves, flowers and essential oil. Make a gift personally for that special someone or a loved one this Valentine’s Day. CSC Bukit Batok Clubhouse Seminar Room, 91 Bukit Batok West Avenue 2, Singapore 659206 Luna Sea Concert 8 Feb, 7.30pm, $98-$238 After more than two decades of waiting, the time has finally come. Legendary Japanese band Luna Sea will finally set foot in Singapore. Besides pioneering the VisualKei movement alongside with the famous X Japan, Luna Sea played an influential role in the development of the Japan music industry in recent decades. The Star Theatre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, Singapore 138617 Norah Jones Live in Singapore 27 Feb, 8pm, $95-$195 After a recent break-up, the blues singer headed into the studio once again to produce the album Broken Little Hearts, and now she’s taking the show on the road. The singersongwriter will be performing new songs like Happy Pills and Say Goodbye, as well as many other fan favourites. Norah Jones deviates from her signature sound to a slightly more saloon-based bar strut. This is one concert to watch. The Star Theatre, 1 Vista Exchange Green, #04-01, Singapore 138617

Experience the peak of romance at Mount Faber Make VALENTINE’S DAY 2013 a memorable one at The Jewel Box at Mount Faber, where the peak of romance is made complete with romantic music, luxuriously good food and wine, under star-studded skies and a sea of city lights. This Feb 13 and 14, The Jewel Box Hilltop Romance presents romance in style, 106m above sea level, where you can pamper your Valentine with epicurean treats, amid the naturally-beautiful surroundings of Mount Faber Park. Wine and dine your Valentine while enjoying live Jazz from local band M.I.G, in the backdrop of Singapore’s Southern cityscape, harbour and Sentosa Island night lights. Local vocalist Dawn Ho will be adding to the music repertoire on Feb 14, with classic hits from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Ella Fitzgerald and other stellar icons. The night of romance is perfectly planned with

a special menu crafted using popular aphrodisiacs, carefully woven into an exquisite meal. Sapphire and Black Opal, the Jewel Box’s al fresco and modern European fine dining restaurants, both open with an exquisite seafood medley, with an exquisite-tasting menu which includes alcoholinfused soups and delectable desserts, to add to that sweet taste of romance. Menus start from $288 per couple and come with the highlight of a complimentary romantic cable car ride for two. For the romantics who are looking to impress, Singapore Cable Car offers the perfect private dining venue, surrounded only by the picturesque atmosphere that nature has to offer. Experience the World’s First Sky Dining, for a memorable dining experience all set within the comforts and privacy of your very own cabin, 120m above sea level. Presenting a specially-created Valentine’s Day five-course menu, you can select from delectable main courses of Almond Crusted Chilean Sea Bass Fillet or Roasted Honey Duck Breast, while sipping on a glass of Veuve Clicquot rose champagne. Enjoy the company of your loved one, with an exclusive view of the lights and splendour of Singapore’s cityscape set against the romantic night sky. The package is $338 per couple, and includes a glass of champagne, a singular stalk of rose for the lady, as well as a box of premium chocolates to top the sweet night. Call 6377 9688 or visit www.mountfaber.com.sg for more information.


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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

04 • WEEKENDER • February 8 - 14, 2013

ASHION

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

“the collections create curve and volume without being overly heavy.”

Triologie’s new collection

Fash Snips Here are a few stirrings in the fashion world that you would need, want and love to know availability of water. We are proud of the partnership with WWF which we hope will inspire others to follow,” says Karl-Johan Persson, CEO of H&M.

Celio* Spring / Summer 2013 Entitling their collection the Dolce Vita – sweet life in Italian – this complete men’s wardrobe alternates between vivid colours and neutral shades with trends of colour blocking and chambray finishes. The new collection will be launched in stores starting this week. Prices range from $16.90 for a T-shirt to $306.90 for a woolblend blazer.

Get the new

fashion code Local multi-label boutique Coda Co. showcases international brands that established their cult following

Celio*’s flagship store is located at Bugis+ shopping mall. Triologie Spring / Summer 2013 Local brand Triologie launches their new collection with France-inspired silhouettes and architectural prints. The brand is housed in pop-up store The Emporium, which is located at Millenia Walk and the newly-revamped basement at Wheelock Place.

By Cheryl Chia

T

ucked inside the glassy interiors of Scotts Square is Coda Co., multi-label boutique with a penchant for bringing in cult and new-to-market brands

Fashion maven Thomas Wee with the models

from all over the world. Here, local fashion maven Thomas Wee makes his foray back into retail with his Festive 2013 capsule collection. Conceived by Ms Jeanna Chan in end-2011, she takes pride in introducing new things to the Singaporean market. “I am very proud that we are able to successfully introduce several new-to-market labels into Singapore. In the short time we have operated, we have a good number of customers who have become fans of these labels,” says Ms Chan. The store specially curates labels with key collection styles, with limited pieces. Some of these pieces are considered “demi-couture” – half custom-made clothing. Coda Co. carries labels such as Alexis Mabille (Paris), Jardin de Chouette (Seoul), Carte Postale (Singapore) and Thomas Wee (Singapore). All of these brands are exclusively carried at Coda Co. “I have this special working relationship with Jeanna for a few years now. She understands how I work creatively and

I leave the business aspect to her. I trust her instincts and I am looking forward to this new relationship,” Thomas enthused. Thomas’ Festive 2013 collection features ‘50s inspired silhouettes and solid shades. “I love everything of that era, especially the femininity of the styles then. This is my interpretation,” he says of his collection. With his showing last Wednesday with models – including latest ‘It’ girl Vivian Ong – wearing his pieces it shows with full skirts, clean lines and luxe fabrics like cotton organza, crepes and shangtung silks, the collections create curve and volume without being overly heavy. Each piece retails from $300 to $800. W Coda Co. is located at 6 Scotts Road, #02-03, Singapore 228209

Threadbare and Squirrel Two new brands have joined the Threadbare and Squirrel family: Alistair Yiap – an Australian accessories label that uses the latest digital fabrication technique, 3D printing, to give their designs form; and Sunday Somewhere – an eyewear brand known for their spunky yet classic designs. Threadbare and Squirrel curates brands from all over the world to expose Singaporeans to local designers and cult international designers. Threadbare and Squirrel is located at 660 North Bridge Road, Singapore 188797 New bags from Celio*

The Emporium is located at Millenia Walk and Wheelock Place. H&M embarks on water stewardship with World Wild Life Federation H&M has partnered with the World Wild Life Federation (WWF) to come up with better methods to create less water wastage. About a third of the factories producing clothes for H&M are located in water-scarce areas. “Water is a key resource for H&M, and we are committed to ensure water is used responsibly throughout our value chain. We do this to minimise risks in our operations, protect the environment and to secure

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Care for your eyes in the air

as well as whether you have any allergies. If you may be unsure, check the label on the box to ensure your lens solution can be used for the specific type of lens, as some lens solutions are only meant to be used for specific lens materials. Many wear less glam spectacles instead of contact lenses while on Alcon recently launched its a flight, or go without using either, due to discomfort. new OPTI-FREE® PureMoist® Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Here are tips on eye care and lenses that can help Solution (MPDS), which complements all soft contact lenses for all-day comfort. The HydraGlyde® as well as of getting lenses Moisture Matrix embeds itself on and within properly fitted by a qualified the lens surface to deliver moisture to the optometrist or practitioner,” lens throughout the day. It also reduces lipid says Dr Tan. deposition and removes protein deposits for He says one should make an clean fresh lenses for you. appointment with a qualified Eye AIR OPTIX® contact lenses and OPTICare Professional (ECP) for an FREE® PureMoist® MPDS in combination annual eye examination, comply provide a healthy and comfortable lens-wear with ECP recommendations on experience for the lens wearer. the use of eye, lens and lens care Nonetheless, when in doubt, always consult products, and consult one’s ECP your ECP for what is best suited to you. for eye care needs, and before changing the use of such eye care products. It is common to see contact tips for lens users lens users on flights, especially long-haul, choosing to go with spectacles, for fear of the feeling of dryness and discomfort. Dr Tan 1. Use silicone hydrogel or gas permeable says this effect may be due to the lenses. atmosphere in the aircraft. 2. Use lens re-wetting lotions when lenses “Traditional hydrogel lenses get dry or blurry. with high water content may 3. Regular blinking helps to lubricate the dry and distort more than those lenses when doing work or similar, such with lesser water content. This as reading or using laptop, etc. may be overcome with silicone 4. Disinfect and soak lenses in solutions hydrogel lenses or gas permeable that will keep lens surface lubricated lenses. Silicone hydrogel lenses prior to have improved wetting qualities, wearing. low water content, hence low 5. Always use dehydration tendency.” fresh lenses. Another aspect of long-haul flights is the tendency for one to Air Optix Aqua contact lenses take naps. Dr Tan reminds us that sleeping with lenses that are not highly-breathable is discouraged Opti-Free f you wear contact lenses, you might have due to lack of oxygen to the eyes. PureMoist found that wearing lenses while travelling “With the significantly higher oxygen Multi-Purpose on a flight, especially long-haul, is a bad transmissibility of silicone hydrogel lenses, Disinfecting Solution idea. The conditions of dry, tired and it is recommended for passengers who’re aching eyes may be familiar to you. wearing lenses to use lenses with better Dr Adam Tan, an optometrist from Nanyang wettability and oxygen permeability such Optical - who deals with contact lens fitting, as silicone hydrogels. These lenses transmit especially in the use of specialty lenses more oxygen through the lens than traditional such as toric and multifocal lenses - shares soft contact lenses. It also helps provide a his insight on eye care and lenses that can healthy feeling and comfort all day,” he says. prevent these very problems. Dr Tan points out, silicone hydrogel contact Dr Tan says one of the most common issues lenses with a continuous plasma surface encountered by contact lens users is eye treatment have been clinically proven to dryness due to various factors such as the effectively improve the “wettability” of the environment, low volume of tear production, lens surface and resist deposits. age, contact lens wear and so on. In choosing the right lens solution, Dr Tan “Many consumers still lack awareness of says it depends on what material the lenses the importance of annual eye examinations, are made out of, how often you replace them,

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when flying

Electrifying beauty Beauty has gone beyond creams and lotions. Here are some gadgets to freshen your look for the Snake Year

LMS Spotlight 24, $199

By Cheryl Chia Panasonic Pore Cleanser, $66

Watsons 3-in-1 Hairset, $34.90

Thank goodness for the evolution of technology in making our beauty regimes more refined and effective. From zit-zappers to foot spas, a multitude of electronic gadgets are now available. Here are a few you can try out to put your best self forward in the approaching Lunar New Year. panasonic Pore Cleanser ($66) This nifty tool deep-cleans the pores with light suction. Great for people with enlarged pores that are prone to clogging, the Pore Cleanser gently unclogs pores by vacuuming up the black and whiteheads on your face. Place the cleanser on pesky areas such as the side of the nose and watch as the sebum plugs come right out! Use in shower for better results. Panasonic pocket Doltz Toothbrush ($34.90) Love the thorough cleaning an electric toothbrush gives but hate its weight? The Pocket Doltz Toothbrush fits in a carryall bag and weighs 45g. Its centrical bristles clean teeth effortlessly, for a fresh feel all day. Available at Best Denki, selected Harvey Norman stores, Isetan Scotts, Takashimaya, Tangs Orchard and other Panasonic authorised dealers.

LMS Spotlight 3 / 24 ($79 / $199) The LMS Spotlight utilises Red Light Therapy to aid the body’s healing process in clearing spots and acne quickly. It can be used as a pre-emptive measure to prevent a pesky zit from erupting into a full-blown Mount Vesuvius. Place the LMS Spotlight over the targeted area up to three times a day, for a minute each time. The LMS Spotlight 24 is made to target larger areas such as the back. Warning: Pregnant women are not advised to use this product. Available at all Guardian Health and Beauty stores. Watsons 3-in-1 Hair Set ($34.90) Tired of the same hairstyle every day? The Watsons 3-in-1 Hairset comprises three interchangeable attachments – a flat iron, hair curler and spiral tong. Change your hairstyle this New Year, whether to a sleek, classic look or a voluminous style. Watsons Bubble Foot Massager ($29.90 promo price U.P. $39.90) Indulge yourself after a long day. Simply add water and essential oil, and dunk in your feet. This is great for relaxing in front of the telly. Available at Watsons Stores.


febrUARY 8 - 14, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 05

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

TRAVELATIO

Off the beaten track:

Sabah sea-walking Even if hiking up Mount Kinabalu is not your thing, the city of Kota Kinabalu will charm you with its sights and activities

N Offer Coupons

REDEEM YOUR

$4 NATAS entry fee at

SingExpress Travel Simply make any travel booking with SingExpress Travel (Booth 4H51), and you can redeem your $4 Natas entry fee. To redeem, kindly present this Weekender coupon with the booking payment. Your $4 will then be deducted.

By Cheryl Chia

AirAsia for a smoother ride with priority seating and other perks, airasia gives greater comfort

W “The sea toward the right of the jetty has A large bed of corals, filled with tons of zebra fish and parrot fish.”

hen one thinks of water activities, Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Malaysia, is not the first place that springs to mind. But there are many islands off Kota Kinabalu to have lots of watery fun. A mere 15 to 20 minutes’ boat ride away from the jetty (RM100RM135), various islands are within reach. Island-hopping packages (RM60-RM100) are available at the jetty counter. We went on a trip to Sapi Island – formerly known as Babi or Pig Island – and Manukan Island which boast beautifully clear waters where snorkelling, diving and sea-walking are encouraged. If you aren’t a strong swimmer, don’t worry, life jackets will be provided. Simply strap the jacket on, put on the snorkel and get in the water (RM10 each for jacket and snorkel). Just stay within the buoys and you’re good to go. The sea just off the jetty has a large bed of corals, with tons of zebra and parrot fish. I saw a puffer fish too, though we kept our distance. If you’ve never tried seawalking (RM210-RM250), I highly recommend it. A boat takes you to a floating platform where you put on a special pair of rubber shoes.

Descending into the water is the scary part but the experienced guides are by your side, so don’t fret. As you descend, a pressurised ‘spaceman’ helmet is lowered over your head and, next thing you know, you’re watching fish swim right to your face. You can even get up-close and personal with clown fish in the coral. Between Sapi and Manukan, the latter would be a quieter spot for these activities. Kota Kinabalu is known for its seafood. Welcome Seafood Restaurant is a good place. Shrimp, fish and crabs are readily available and always fresh. The clams are also huge. If you are a fan of shellfish, this would definitely

be the draw. At the end of the meal, try their coconut pudding – coconut curd in a large coconut shell for a few picture-worthy snaps. If you like night markets, explore the one opposite Le Meridien Hotel. It sells a range of tourist items from conch shells to fresh fruit and vegetables, to hawker food. The souvenir shop located at the Warisan Square shopping mall also sells chocolate-covered tropical fruit such as bananas, strawberries, guavas, mangosteen and even durian. Low cost carrier AirAsia flies to Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur and many other regional cities. Your next weekend getaway could be to tranquil Kota Kinabalu. W

Dislike cramped seats in other low-cost carriers? AirAsia goes one-up with greater comforts. Its Hot Seats give more leg room. For just S$5 per person if you book online, you can sit at the front and stretch out. There is also the option of pre-booking an in-flight meal. AirAsia flies to several destinations such as Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar and Saudi Arabia. Depending on seasonal fares, it could go below $100 for short-haul flights. CEO Tan Sri Dr Tony Fernandes stated, “In ten years, AirAsia Group grew from a twoaircraft fleet to now the largest LCC in Asia with 118 aircraft; and AirAsia is one of the most profitable airlines in Asia.”

WIN a set of

Bodum products worth more than $300!

Simply cut out this Weekender coupon, fill in your particulars (name, NRIC no., contact number and address) and drop it in at the SingExpress Travel booth (4H51) Name: NRIC No.: Contact: Address: The set of Bodum products includes: Bistro Blender Stick with Accessories - Black Bistro Electric Kettle 1.5l/51oz – Lime Green

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1st person from $1,998* (Plus additional $68 OFF per couple) 6/7D 5N Japan Alpine & Takayama (JP6AT/JP7AT)

• Experience various transports through Tatayama Kurobe Alpine Route • Be awed by up to 20m high Otani Snow Walls • Visit Shirakawa-go Village and Takayama Castle Town • Pick and eat seasonal fruits at Nagano Fruit Farm • Visit Shin Yokohama Ramen Museum, World’s 1st food theme park • Consecutive 2 nights stay in Tokyo City • 1 Day free & easy in Tokyo Departure Dates: Apr to Aug (selected departures) Simply present this Weekender coupon before making your booking at the SingExpress Travel booth (4H51), and you can get this fantastic travel offer. *Price excludes associated taxes and fuel surcharges


GONG XI


FEN GS HU POS TE R O I MA S N YO T U

I FA CAI

HIS TE T k S PA uc S: rl Y o SA OR f R E DO R


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YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

08 • WEEKENDER • FEBRUARY 8 - 14, 2013

OOD

For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

you can just skip to the sit-down dinner by popping into the Imperial Treasure Steamboat Restaurant. Known for its wide selection of ingredients and flavourful soup bases such as chicken, pork bone or Sichuan spicy soup, its Chinese New Year set meals will not disappoint. This place is one for large families. For ten people ($848 for 15 courses; $1,238 for 17 courses), you’ll enjoy the special Fatt Choy Salmon Yu-Sheng and delights such as live prawns, sliced abalone, Wagyu beef, fish maw and ‘soon hock’ fish. More traditional foods like prawn dumplings, pork balls and deep fried fish skin are also available in the set menu. Fans of the Drunken Chicken dish will not be disappointed as it is also included in the set menu. The service at Imperial Treasure is also known to be spot-on with the staff being attentive with constant refills of soup and tea. End off your steamboat feast with Sweetened Red Jujubes & Dry Longan Glutinous Dumpling. The Imperial Treasure Steamboat’s Chinese New Year menu lasts from Feb 21 to Feb 24. They are located at TripleOne at Somerset and Ion Orchard. W

RECIPE 1

Imperial Treasure Steamboat Restaurant, 111 Somerset Road, #02-21, Singapore 238164, Tel: 6732 8231

Sliced abalone is part of the Chinese New Year set

Wagyu beef and other types of meat are available

Have an Imperial reunion

Organic Chicken Soup This healthy chicken soup is a nice reprieve from all that heavy festive eating. Try organic foods with this recipe by the Organic Trade Association.

Take your family out for a sumptuous steamboat dinner for a belated or extended Chinese New Year get together

Ingredients Serves about 4 – 8 persons • 1 organic chicken (about 1 kg) • 200g of conpoy (dried scallops) • 3l of water

By Cheryl Chia There is no better way to bond with your family than over a simmering tureen of soup as you await your choice foods to cook. I remember many family steamboat dinners during Chinese New Year that took place at almost any relative’s home. Many laughs were shared from the preparation process to the actual sit-down dinner. Chinese-style steamboat is no longer just a sweaty affair as you avoid the wisps of smoke arising from the hot pot, or avoid the side of the table which exposes you to the flames from the gas fire. It has now evolved into the era of ceramic heating plates with waiting staff bringing your desired ingredients to you. If the preparation is too much of a hassle,

Imperial Treasure Steamboat Restaurant has various fresh treasures from the sea

Savour la dolce vita

Herb Mix • 20g of dried longans • 30g of lily bulbs • 40g of lotus seeds • 20g of snow fungus • 20g of red dates • Handful of wolfberries • Sea salt and white pepper to taste Method • Wash conpoy, place in bowl

of water and soak 30 minutes. • Clean the chicken well. Remove excess fat and skin, if desired. Blanch in a pot of boiling water. Remove chicken and drain well. • Wash herb mix and soak in water for about 20 minutes. Drain and set aside. • Bring herb mix (except the wolfberries) and water to a boil in a pot. • Add conpoy and chicken, bring to a boil again. • Lower heat and simmer 3 hours. Remove froth from surface. • Just before serving, add wolfberries and simmer for a few minutes. • Season with sea salt and white pepper. Organic products can be purchased from places like FairPrice Finest and Cold Storage.

Café Crema will be opening its second branch here after Gardens by the Bay

Enjoy the sweet life with Raffles Courtyard’s brand new Italian menu By Cheryl Chia Parma ham and rucola pizza

Paul Bakery’s escargot raisins

Savour the lush al fresco setting in Singapore’s most historical hotel during your lunch break, for a quick getaway within the city. The courtyard in Raffles Hotel – established in 1887 – launches a brand new Italian menu to tantalise taste buds. With freshly-concocted garden salads, pizzas and classic selections of pastas, the menu is created by Deputy Executive Chef Nicola Canuti. The dining concept was inspired by his hometown in Italy, where friends and family gather together for a relaxing meal outdoors. In typical European fashion, aperitifs are served prior to the meal and ends off with a scoop of gelato. The fresh insalate – Italian for salad, mozzarella cheese and beef carpaccio intend to take the mind to the beaches along the Italian coasts in Spring, while the woodfired oven pizzas are a reflection of the bountiful carnivals in Summer. The pasta dishes with

the extensive use of garlic and chilli represent the sensual side of Italy. Wine Director Stephane Soret has also drawn up an Italian wine list to match the provincial dishes. Served in miniature terracotta anforas – a handmade clay vessel – the wine will stay cool effortlessly in the earthenware for a longer period of time. Two prosecco-based aperitifs have also been introduced: Bellini – made with fresh white peaches, and Aperol – served in a red wine glass with a slice of orange. Housed right in the middle of the iconic Raffles Hotel, you almost feel like you’ve stepped out of the CBD and gone back to when times were simpler, even for just a few hours. Raffles Courtyard is open daily from 12pm to 10pm. For reservations call, 6412 1816 or email dining@raffles.com Raffles Courtyard, Raffles Hotel, 3 Beach Road, Singapore 189674

The concept is inspired by the Chef’s hometown

Chocolate and Pear Gelato

New eateries to check out at

The Courtyard Set to be the largest retail and office hub outside the city, Westgate mall will have a specially-designed space for al fresco dining – The Courtyard Westgate, located in Jurong Gateway, is an integrated retail and office development set to become the largest hub for commercial development outside the city. In it will be a speciallydedicated al fresco dining space called The Courtyard. As of Nov 2012, half of Westgate’s shopping mall has already been pre-leased ahead of its opening in Dec 2013. These will include international brands such as Isetan supermarket and French bakery and patisserie Paul opening their first stores outside the downtown area. Ms Wee Su Lin, General Manager, Westgate, said, “We are excited to bring retailers such as Paul Bakery and Isetan supermarket to Singapore’s West with their first stores outside Singapore’s downtown core.” New eateries Food Republic, the popular food court chain, will introduce a new thematic concept at Westgate. Chinese restaurant Paradise Dynasty will expand its popular

xiao long bao concept at ION Orchard to Westgate. The mall will also see a new entrant on the food and beverage scene, Steak & Seafood Robatayaki Buffet. Café Crema, the Italianinspired café currently at Gardens by the Bay, will operate its second outlet at Westgate. It will be bringing its artisanal coffee and bespoke sandwiches to this new lifestyle mall. Café Crema specialises in fine espresso-based drinks that are passionately and skilfully handcrafted by trained barista. Other than fine coffee, its gourmet sandwiches are filled with quality ingredients. The Big Bad Wolf is a decadent assembly of crispy pancetta, breaded pork cutlet, bacon rashers, apple smoked ham, and Swiss emmental cheese on brioche toast. Each sandwich is at least four inches tall, satisfying any craving and leaving you wanting more.

The Courtyard – dedicated al fresco dining Westgate will feature a naturallyventilated area called The Courtyard. This low-rise block from Level 1 to Level 4 faces the Jurong East MRT station and will comprise F&B outlets, many with outdoor refreshment areas, as well as retail stores. The Courtyard is linked to the main retail podium by an inner street and bridges. It will house an intimate semi-outdoor pedestrian street The area will also feature lush landscaping with plant and water features, inspired by the mangroves and rivers that were in Jurong. The Courtyard is capped with a glazed canopy that lets in natural daylight. Ambient temperature will be kept cool with mechanical means such as jet blowers and air diffusers, and water features with pre-cooled water. Food retailers at Westgate’s The Courtyard include Paul Bakery, Café Crema and Japanese ramen restaurant Menya Musashi.

About Westgate Westgate is the only development directly linked to both the Jurong East MRT and bus interchanges. The mall has an area of 416,000 square feet, similar to the Raffles City retail area. Westgate is an integrated retail and office development by CapitaMalls Asia Limited, CapitaMall Trust and CapitaLand Limited. Westgate, 3 Gateway Drive, Singapore 608532

“The Courtyard is capped with a glazed canopy that lets in natural daylight.”


YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS

FEBRUARY 8 - 14, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 09

FOO Rush hour romance For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

A WEEKENDER EXCLUSIVE RECIPE

Caramelised Japanese Peach ‘Melba’

D

It’s a week to Valentine’s Day and you’ve completely forgotten. Here’s a quick way to wow your love and save yourself from the doghouse By Cheryl Chia Cupid’s Arrow Cupcakes

Japanese peaches are cultivated with high-quality water and optimal climate, then exported. They are also individually wrapped to preserve quality. Chef Isaac of the Pelican Seafood Bar and Grill shows us how easy cooking peaches can be. Who says that the peaches in a Melba dish always have to come out of a tin? Ingredients • 750ml of water • 750g of sugar • 1 vanilla pod, split lengthwise • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice • 8 peaches Raspberry sauce • 750g of raspberries • 250g of confectioners' sugar • 1 tablespoon of lemon juice To serve • 1 large tub of vanilla ice-cream Directions • Place the water, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla pod into a wide saucepan and heat gently to dissolve the sugar. • Bring the pan to the boil and let it bubble away for about 5 minutes, then turn the heat down to a fast simmer. • Cut the peaches in half, and if the stones come out easily then remove them, if not you can get them out later. • Poach the peach halves in the sugar syrup for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, depending on the ripeness of the fruit. Test the cut side with the sharp

point of a knife to see if they are soft, and then remove them onto a plate with a slotted spoon. •

When all the peaches are poached, peel off their skins and let them cool, where you can remove any remaining stones. If you are making them a day in advance then let the poaching syrup cool and then pour into a dish with the peaches.

Raspberry sauce • Liquidise the raspberries, confectioners' sugar, and lemon juice in a blender or a food processor. • Sieve to remove the pits and pour the puree into a jug.

When desperate times call for desperate measures and you’re putting together a homemade meal, a picnic with deli food might be the best option available. Da Paolo Gastronomia can help you add a few artful touches to your emergency meal. Add this Heart-Shaped Veal Ravioli ($5.80 for 100g) to your picnic basket. These ravioli are all dressed up for the romantic season with heart shapes and stuffed with braised veal. They are covered in veal jus flavoured with sage and dusted with parmesan shavings. Simply re-plate them onto proper porcelain plates for a better presentation. Charm her further with these Cupid’s Arrow Cupcakes ($6.50 for one, $12 for a pair). These whimsical cupcakes are infused with organic tea leaves with raspberry and a champagne brulee centre. If you make an order three days in advance, you can get the Rose Infused Heart-shaped Layered Cake ($33.90). This decadent layered caked has rose-flavoured Chantilly cream in-between each layer. If you make your reservation the moment you’ve read this article, you might be able to still get a lovely table for you and your love to enjoy the four-course meal ($120 per person)

specially prepared for the occasion at Da Paolo BistroBar in the idyllic settings of Rochester Park. Start off your meal with a glass of prosecco and enjoy your starters of lobster bisque with fresh coconut and Australian spanner crab tagliatelle, then pick your choice of grilled sea bass or braised beef cheek for your mains before ending your meal with a gianduja crème brulee and lavender crumble. Visit www.dapaolo.com.sg for more information.

Great holiday PACKAGES

To assemble the Peach Melba, sprinkle sugar on the peach and caramelise it with a blowtorch. Allow two peach halves per person and sit them on each plate alongside a scoop or two of ice cream. Spoon the raspberry sauce over each, and garnish with roasted almonds. Your Caramelised Japanese Peach ‘Melba’ is now done.

from SingExpress

Check out Page 12

The Pelican Bar and Grill is located at 1 Fullerton Road, #01-01, Singapore 049214 Japanese foods. Your quality time.

“These whimsical cupcakes are infused with organic tea leaves with raspberry and a champagne brulee centre.”

Rose Infused Heart-shaped Layered Cake


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10 • WEEKENDER • FebrUARY 8 - 14, 2013

E HAPPIER • Continued from page 1...

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

Are you

man

enough Join stand-up comic Kumar on his very honest views on what manhood really stands for. No pun intended

for Kumar?

S

ingapore’s most prolific stand-up comedian and drag-queen, Kumar, is back with his new show What Makes a Man a Man. We suss out what he thinks.

What makes a man a man then, in your opinion? The five Cs: Character, Charisma, Creativeness, Chivalry and Condo. The last one is because, no roof over your head how? What are your favourite audiences to perform to? Small revues or largescale arenas such as the Esplanade? Those who laugh at my jokes. It doesn't matter if it's the Esplanade or the Esplanade MRT station.

“One fellow couldn’t take a joke, stood up and yelled, “What the hell do you know, you bloody p****n, and Walked out.”

If you could meet anyone, dead or alive, who would it be? I want to meet my 18-year-old self. I will look him in the eye very seriously and tell him, "It gets better." And then I will give him all the winning Toto numbers for the next five years. Who are your comedic icons? I have a group of icons. They’re called politicians. Some of the things they do are damn funny. What makes you smile? The kindness of people. Once I saw someone give $10 to a tissue aunty, give her a hug and ask her to go home.

Where do you get your funny bone from? Depends on whether the guy I'm with has one. How do you spend a typical weekend? Lazing at home and spending time with my mom. What is the real Kumar like, off stage? The real Kumar spends half his life putting on make-up for stage. What would you say to all Singaporeans? Take the baby bonus! Make babies and they’ll stop blaming us for the declining birth rate! What’s the funniest moment you've encountered on the job? One fellow couldn't take a joke, stood up and yelled, "What the hell do you know, you bloody p****n [derogatory word for effeminate man]" and walked out. W

What makes a man a man? Funny (wo)man Kumar brings on the laughter with his upcoming show at the Esplanade. Synopsis The hot-shot, macho, strong, burly, fierce, garang, solid, grunting, hunter and gatherer of laughs, Kumar, is back. No one man in Singapore has had such a wide-reaching impact. Kumar blazed trails dressed as a female while never denying he is truly male. The answer to the perennial question of what makes a man a man finds its solution in Kumar with his wicked humour. This is one round of stand-up comedy you cannot miss. Kumar will walk the talk, say “wah lao eh” and make you squirm in your seat, or laugh until you pee yourself, whether he’s talking about men’s clothes or taking them off. He’ll even show his exhibits A to H – eight hunky guys with whom he’ll share the stage. About Kumar The undisputed drag queen of Singapore is best known for his live stand-up comedy. Kumar is a household name, thanks to TV and film appearances including guest appearances on shows like Phua Chu Kang and a role in Oh Carol! with Hong Kong star Carol Cheng. He also hosted Arts Central’s Front, and appeared in Forever Fever.

MOVIE PREVIEW Django makes an enemy of Calvin Candie, a wealthy landowner

Jamie Foxx is Django, a force of nature hellbent on bringing the day of reckoning to his wife’s captors. Strap in for Quentin Tarantino’s latest work

In the South of the United States two years before the American Civil War, Django is a slave whose brutal past with his former owners lands him face-toface with German-born bounty hunter Dr King Schultz. Versatile artiste and Academy Award winner Jamie Foxx stars as the driven Django who is acquired by Schultz, played by the charismatic Christoph Waltz. Viewers may find Waltz familiar as he starred as the menacing Colonel Hans Landa in Quentin Tarantino’s last film, The Inglourious Basterds. The Synopsis With his newfound fame, Waltz now stars as the unorthodox Schultz who is on the

trail of the murderous Brittle brothers, and only Django can lead him to his bounty. Schultz acquires Django with a promise to free him upon the capture of the Brittles – dead or alive. Success leads Schultz to free Django, though the two eventually decide not to part ways. Instead, Schultz seeks out the South’s most wanted criminals together with Django. All the while, Django hones vital hunting skills and remains focused on only one goal: finding and rescuing Broomhilda (Kerry Washington), the wife he lost to the slave trade long ago. This unlikely partnership, and their search, ultimately leads them to the notorious Calvin Candie, played by Leonardo DiCaprio. Candie is the proprietor of “Candyland,” an infamous plantation. Exploring the compound under false pretences, Django and Schultz arouse the suspicion of Stephen (played by Samuel L Jackson), Candie’s trusted house slave. Their every move is closely watched, and a treacherous organisation soon closes in on them. If Django and Schultz are to escape with Broomhilda, they must choose between independence and solidarity, between sacrifice and survival. A tough choice in tough times.

Jamie Foxx stars as Django, a man with a brutal mission

The Production Django Unchained is written and directed by pulp icon Quentin Tarantino, and the executive producers include Harvey and Bob Weinstein. Tarantino’s new work began its journey to the big screen over ten years ago, when the writer-director first thought of the main character, Django.

Vengeance unchained “Schultz acquires Django with a promise to free him upon the capture of the Brittles – dead or alive.”

Christoph Waltz is Dr King Schultz, the bounty hunter who acquires Django

“The initial germ of the whole idea was a slave who becomes a bounty hunter and then goes after overseers that are hiding out on plantations,” Tarantino recalls. “I just started writing, and Django presented himself to me. At the beginning he just was who he was – the sixth slave from

the seventh on a chain gang line. But he just kept revealing himself to me more and more as I wrote.”

A Modern Spaghetti Western Although Django Unchained takes place in the Antebellum South, Tarantino found that Django’s story might best be represented as a Western. “I’ve always wanted to do a Western. I like all kinds of Westerns, but since Spaghetti Westerns have always been my favourite, I thought that the day I do one, it would be in that Sergio Corbucci universe,” says Tarantino. For him, Westerns represented grand, masterful depictions of good and evil.

“It’s unimaginable to think of the pain and the suffering that went on in this country, making it perfect for a Spaghetti Western interpretation. The reality fits into the biggest canvas that you could think of for this story,” he says. “The shifting moral tone, the dark corners, the moral complexity of both A Fistful of Dollars and the Corbucci films was a huge influence on Quentin’s storytelling. Quentin’s intense study of the genre led to the inspired idea of mashing up the slave narrative with the Spaghetti Western, which creates a movie we have never seen before,” says Producer Reginald Hudlin. Django Unchained will be released in Singapore on Mar 21 by Sony Pictures. DJANGO UNCHAINED (M18) Release: 21 Mar Run Time: 91 min Directed by: Quentin Tarantino Cast: Jamie Foxx, Leonardo DiCaprio, Christoph Waltz, Samuel L Jackson


february 8 - 14, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 11

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp

FAMILY & FRIEND

Kyle Lim Born Jul 19, 2012

Sim Kye Born Dec 8, 2012

S

Sarathy Ashvath Born Oct 29, 2012

Hansen Mao Haochen Born Jul 6, 2012

Raquel Graham Tay Born May 25, 2012

Raysa Graham Tay Born May 25, 2012

Babies - aren’t they the cutest things ever? That’s why Weekender dedicates a section to your adorable darlings in diapers. Send us your favourite photos of your newborn, so the rest of us can coo and ‘ahh’ over him / her too! What better way is there to celebrate your child than to share him / her with the rest of the world?

Jaeger Poh Born Mar 13, 2012

HELLO

WORLD

Chloe Ee Zhao Yang Born Sep 3, 2011

Email your photos to

Aura Aisyah Bte Mohd Firdaus Born Sep 28, 2011

Riyaz Rohan Mubarak Born Oct 4, 2012

general@weekender.com.sg or mail hard copies to us at

our office at 80 Playfair Road, #02-03, Singapore 367998. We look forward to receiving photos of your loved one!

5

Inayah Banu Binte Nasir Born Mar 15, 2012

WEALTH 1

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Valentine’s Day

ideas with MasterCard

Whether you are an adventure-couple, a homely-couple or culture vultures, MasterCard’s Priceless Singapore gives you five ideas to share with your special someone a truly priceless experience 2

“Sail in style with White Sails from Valentine’s day is just around the corner. Are you thinking, “Been there, done that”? Here are five Sentosa already priceless ideas for you and your love. Cove in a Adventure Couples 1 For Ever thought of whisking your loved one off on a chartered glorious adventure-filled boat ride into the sunset? Sail in with White Sails from Sentosa Cove in a chartered yacht yacht for style for the perfect way to enjoy Singapore’s coastal waters. Whether you want to relax in the sun, cruise into the the perfect sunset, admire the nightscape or explore offshore islands, there's no better way than on board your own luxury yacht. way to enjoy cardholders can enjoy, from now until Oct 10: Singapore’s MasterCard • Two complimentary bottles of chilled white wine to keep you on your luxury yacht experience. coastal • refreshed A number of private cruise options that includes a two-hour Cruise, where two people go free with any two waters.” Gateway paying individuals for either weekday, weekend or eve of / public holiday rates.

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For Morning Lovebirds If you’re a morning couple who enjoys time together over a cup of good coffee, Espressolab will have you enveloped in a sweet aroma of freshly-brewed coffee, right in the comfort of your own home. Treat yourself and your special someone to a private lesson with a Specialty Coffee Association of Europe (SCAE) certified barista at Espressolab. For three aroma-filled hours, you’ll learn the basics behind

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a limousine pick-up to the Style Services Suite at Hilton Hotel, to gourmet refreshments, look and feel the part of the best-dressed couple! MasterCard cardholders can enjoy, from now until April 11: • Exclusive designer shopping tour • Return limousine transfer, simply by making appointment three days in advance

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the origins of coffee, and pulling an espresso shot and steaming milk – skills for making a special breakfast in bed.

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MasterCard cardholders can enjoy $50 off the usual price and pay just $300 for the experience, from now until May 31.

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For Culture Vultures Looking for a way to spend a romantic evening that is also a treat for your literary taste buds? Surprise your loved one with a pair of tickets to this year’s Shakespeare in the Park by the Singapore Repertory Theatre. Spread a blanket under the stars and immerse yourselves in the dark world of Othello, one of Shakespeare’s great tragedies. Whether to be intrigued by the story of love, deception and greed, or just to enjoy a bottle of red wine al fresco, Othello promises to be an unforgettable evening. MasterCard cardholders can enjoy an exclusive 10 per cent discount on all SRT productions, from now until Aug 1.

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For Passionate Fashionistas What better way to enjoy a priceless Valentine’s than to treat yourself to a designer shopping experience at Club 21? Only MasterCard cardholders can enjoy a complimentary designer shopping tour with a Club 21 Style Advisor. From

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For Couple Travellers If you love travelling and discovering hidden gems, get away on Valentine’s without the hassle of going out of the country. Rediscover Singapore’s heritage and see Chinatown through fresh eyes in a three-day, two-night stay at Liora Porch room at Naumi Liora, inclusive of a six-course degustation dinner for two, and Chinatown Heritage Centre tickets. MasterCard World and World Elite cardholders can enjoy, from now until May 31: • Three-day, two-night stay in a Liora Porch room at Naumi Liora for $688 • A premium six-course degustation dinner for two • Entry tickets for two to the Chinatown Heritage Centre (Package is valued at $1,288) MasterCard invites all cardholders to register for Priceless Singapore at www.pricelesssingapore.com to plan their very own Priceless itinerary, and learn about Priceless offers. W


12 • WEEKENDER • february 8 - 14, 2013

YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS

Weekender is published by Weekender Group Pte Ltd, 80 Playfair Road, #02-03, Blk A, Singapore 367998. Printed by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd, 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968.


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