Have you heard of these two movies called 881 and 12 Lotus? These movies deeply and accurately showed what the Getai life is about and made many people change their perspectives towards Getai as a traditional performance. The two movies were directed by local producer, Royston Tan. People thought that it would not be popular when the idea was brought out. Unexpectedly, when the shows were up in cinemas, it was either ‘selling-fast’ or ‘sold-out’ in most slots. Since these movies caught the locals’ interest, it was brought abroad.
“Getai” is a Chinese word that literally means Song-Stage. It is a live stage performance commonly held during the Hungry Ghost festival in Singapore. The purpose of Getai is to liven up the solemn mood of the festival and appease the ghosts believed to be roaming during the festival. In other countries such as Malaysia, Taiwan and Hong Kong, Getai are hosted too but in the recent years, these shows in their countries have decreased in popularity.In 2006, there was a groundbreaking Getai held in Singapore. It was a twelve-hour-marathon Getai that showcased many famous performers gracing the stage, bringing the crowd to their feet. The marathon was a one-of-a-kind and it awed the whole of Singapore.
The performers usually speak and sing in Hokkien, a dialect in Singapore. Getai is one of Singapore’s most precious traditions that bring beauty and glamour to the masses. They are normally situated in the suburbs of the city in any empty field or even car park spaces around the heartlands. During this month, you can easily find Getai anywhere in Singapore so you do not have to worry about missing it.In the modern world, this traditional festival is slowly disappearing. To preserve this culture, we strongly urge you to experience this and assure you that you will not regret. So why not join us in this festival to liven up the festive mood and get lost in the music together?
A Slideshow of more pictures from a Getai Performance!
References: Asiaone News
Labels: festivals
