Not only has the number of locally-bred performing artists grown across a wide spectrum of genres, the industry has produced multiple award-winning talents such as filmmaker Anthony Chen and a world-class national orchestra which marks its 35th jubilee this year. Other causes for celebration include increased government funding for the sector, more homegrown arts groups, new arts schools, as well as modern new venues from which to enjoy performances and appreciate art (the Victoria Theatre reopens this year and the National Art Gallery opens in 2015). Perhaps the biggest recognition of how far we’ve come is the fact that big-name international acts are now knocking at our door when previously, we had to travel overseas to catch them.

Then there are the numerous festivals and fairs that dot our calendar. More than just providing weekend entertainment, the arts expose us to a different realm and form the “social glue” in our society. Raising a toast to the local arts scene, MELISSA GAIL SING speaks with five noted personalities about their journey through the arts.

Hossan Leong           

Actor/Director/Creative Consultant of Double Confirm Productions Pte Ltd

One of Singapore’s most popular entertainers, this 44-year-old has been charming audiences with his wit, humour and musical talent over the past two decades. Last year, the Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres set up Double Confirm Productions, his own event management company which also grooms budding talent. He directs and acts in A Singaporean in Paris which opens March 11 at SOTA.

Who were your early influencers, and how did they help you through your artistic voyage to find your own voice?

My dad. He would always be the one entertaining the extended family and friends at parties, playing games, singing, playing pranks on my cousins. He taught me how to have fun! And with that, I've developed my own sense of comedy and music.

What keeps you passionate about your craft?

The audience. Every time I'm on stage and performing, the laughter and the smiles keep me going. It's about spreading joy and being happy about doing that all your life.

Many artists undergo journeys of resilience and transformation as they mature. What’s the most significant challenge you faced and how has your journey transformed you?

I have to depend on corporate gigs like dinners and conferences to survive. It used to be so hard to make these audiences laugh because they would be caught up in networking, drinking, talking etc. which is fine because that's what they are there for. But it got to me. I began to feel that performing was a chore. A good friend said to me a few years ago that if I wasn't enjoying it any more, then I should quit. That jolted my reality. After that, I decided that my goal is to entertain people, to make them happy. So every time I take to the stage, it is with that aim in my heart.

For every journey, there's a destination. What do you hope to achieve with your work?

I hope to create a platform and an outlet where the next generation of actors and performers can show off their talents. Double Confirm Productions was set up to do just that. What I have done over the past 21 years is simply a continuous process of self-improvement and honing the craft. I still have a long way to go.

What are your biggest, wildest dreams for the local arts scene?

That we will not be asked, "Can you give a discount?" 

Next week, TATLER talks to Film Director, Boo Junfeng about his life, work, and dreams for the Sinagpore art scene.