The Bukit Panjang Origin Story
Sin Wah Theatre in the 1960s. PHOTO: THE NATIONAL ARCHIVES OF SINGAPORE
Shownotes: PODSCAPE Bukit Panjang
Episode 3, The Origin Story
Summary
In this episode, we explore the origin stories of Bukit Panjang, through the memories and stories of long-time residents. Beginning from the historical Sin Wah Theatre to the livelihood of the first settlers, we will uncover the evolution of Bukit Panjang to modern times. This is the first episode of the series to feature the community stories collected during the Pop-up on 14th and 21st March.
Also in this episode:
Soundscapes by Sze Min that was inspired by the historical past of Bukit Panjang
Discover how Sin Wah Theatre influenced the (love) lives of the older residents
What is the Bukit Panjang Horti-agricultural show?
A glimpse into the farming history of the neighbourhood
An overview of the evolution of Bukit Panjang through its infrastructure and facilities
“He doesn’t own the farm there but I still remember when we were young, my sibling and I used to go to his place to learn cycling. It is a treat to all of us! And his neighbour on the right side had a chicken farm so we used to go there and play, and one of my cousins married the chicken farm owner!”
“She used to watch movies with her then boyfriend, now husband at Sin Wah Theatre… and he told her that ‘I will bring you to watch movies at all 52 cinemas across the island’, and he did! ”
Explore Further!
Check out the photo of Sin Wah Theatre from National Archives that inspired the soundscape that you’ve heard in the episode. View other historical photos and learn more about the origins of Bukit Panjang here.
Read the newspaper article that discusses the Horti-agricultural show in Bukit Panjang at National Library Board multimedia stations. Titled “Farming Exhibition”, dated July 1955
ABOUT PODSCAPE
PODSCAPE - Sounds & Stories of The City is a creative placemaking engagement tool, a community collaboration platform and a public space catalyst. Comprising of a travelling mobile recording booth and a podcast, it aims to foster a sense of community through the shared experiences of recording and preserving the memories the stories of the neighbourhood.
It made its debut season in Bukit Panjang on 14th and 21st of March 2020 at National Arts Council’s Arts In Your Neighbourhood March 2020.
Made with love
Produced by Shophouse & Co.
This season is hosted by Dan & Rebecca of Litolabs with editing and sound design by Artwave Studio and branding design by TOFU.
PODSCAPE is first commissioned under the National Arts Council’s Arts In Your Neighbourhood March 2020.
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