THE PERANAKANHelp Baba Alvin Tan nurture a new generation of theatre-makers
Baba Alvin is developing a Devising and Collaborative Mentorship Programme focused on nurturing a new generation of Peranakan Singaporean theatre-makers. This initiative is pending confirmation of funding in the course of 2025 and will officially begin sometime in early 2026. The search is on for about 10 mentees, of any age, who are Singaporean and of Peranakan descent, to embark on this creative journey with him. Together, the aim is to build an ensemble that supports one another while developing socially engaged performance works rooted in research, interviews, and improvisation.
Currently, there are nine members on board with vacancies for five more members. It would be ideal if under-represented segments of our community could step up: Chetty Melaka, Eurasian-Peranakans, Jawi Peranakans etc.
The programme includes creative feedback sessions, dramaturgical consultations, and ensemble workshops led by Alvin—offering structured space to experiment, reflect, and grow. All mentees will collaborate to raise funds that will support the staging of their works-in-progress, with the goal of showcasing these pieces at a regional theatre festival by 2028.
Alvin is especially keen to work with those who are fluent in, understand, or are interested in learning Baba Malay, and who are excited about reclaiming and reimagining Peranakan heritage through performance.
Everyone can also join the mentees for public workshops and the readings of works-in-progress.
*
If this speaks to you—or someone you know—please get in touch with Baba Alvin Tan at alvintan@necessary.org
