Author Archives: Pushpitha Wijesinghe

The Mosaic Music Festival – Singapore’s Most Anticipated International Music Extravaganza!

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Singapore – the beating heart of the East-meets-West cosmopolitan crowd, with its breathtaking sophistication, masses of discerning consumers with spendthrift tastes and a reputation for attraction only the best of the best. One needs only to look beyond its outwardly prim and proper façade, with its fanatical urban neatness and love of order, to discover a cultural kaleidoscope of colour, music and artistry that draws in people from all walks of life.


The Lion City’s burgeoning reputation as an East Asian hub of the arts and culture is propped up by a series of festivals and events eager to capitalize on its status as an ethnic melting pot. The Mosaic Music Festival is one such key entertainment event that holds a special place among the roster of Singapore’s yearly festivities.


This musical extravaganza, which currently spans over a duration of 10 days, was first launched in 2005 by Singapore’s internationally-acclaimed performance venue, the Esplanade Theatres on the Bay. Arguably the epicentre of modern Singapore’s fine arts scene, the Esplanade is a landmark venue in the city, known fondly among locals as the “Big Durian” due to its imposing dome structure. The festival was launched as a platform for bringing together local and international artists in the genres of soul and jazz music. Since opening to rave reviews region-wide, the festival has grown to include a variety of other musical genres, from R&B and hip hop to indie, folk rock and a range of experimental styles.


The growing prestige and appeal of the music festival has so far drawn a number of international stars; past headlining performers include the jazz star Harry Connick Jr. and the Duke Ellington Orchestra, rock musicians Yo La Tengo and blues band Buddy Guy. Featured acts include a range of eclectic performers, from the Grammy Award winner hip-hop group The Roots to African maestro Dhafer Youssef and even vaudeville musicians from Canada. The crowds have also grown steadily by the tens of thousands, with ticket enquiries beginning almost a year in advance.


The brains behind the music extravaganza hope not only to provide the audience with a true immersion and introduction to all possible music genres but also to give artists an opportunity to really connect with their audience.


Today, the Mosaic Music Festival lists over a hundred acts in their yearly schedule of events, over 50 percent of which are free of charge. These performances are staged in acoustically state-of-the-art venues both inside and around the Esplanade Music Station, with local and regional bands serenading the strolling crowds outside. The new programme of events also encourages music fans to stay out past bedtime with their innovative “11th hour” segment, featuring performances of well-loved international favourites such as Sweden’s Jose Gonzalez and Rickie Lee Jones beginning an hour before midnight, just to spice things up. With all this and more on the roster of festivities, the Mosaic Music Festival may be safely lauded as the most anticipated musical extravaganza in Singapore’s calendar of events.


Music fans flocking to the Lion City in the hope of catching their favourite music stars would do well to find accommodation at a centralized hotel in Singapore that affords immediate access to all the prime sightseeing venues of the city. The Studio M Hotel is a chic and stylish Clarke Quay hotel placed ideally in Singapore’s premier entertainment district, offering easy access to the shopping artery of Orchard Road and the Central Business District. The location is augmented by the hotel’s reputation for personalized service and warm hospitality.

Dudley Concert Hall- the entertainment venue

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At the heart of Dudley stands its largest public art venue which sits right in front of a magnificent castle. Situated only minutes from the town centre, Dudley Concert Hall is perfect for just about everything; from shows, concerts, dances, product launches, fashion shows and exhibitions. It is an ideal venue to organize wedding parties, receptions as well as conferences, meetings and seminars.


A diverse variety of programmes and events are frequently organized since its inception, providing entertainment for contemporary art lovers as well as those who prefer the classics. There are ample parking spaces and this popular attraction is easily accessible from anywhere in Dudley. The arched doorways not only speaks of its grandeur but also provides air, light and easy access to the venue. Dudley Concert Hall embodies superb acoustic qualities which makes it easy for organizers to prepare the entertainment venue for any event. The lighting and the state of the art sound system can bring the place alive. The curious visitor can get their hands on the schedule for the events and attend a line up ranging from musicals, dance, family entertainment, drama, comedy and opera.


Deciding on a Dudley hotel close to the Black Country Living Museum, Cadbury World, Dudley Zoo and the National Indoor Arena won’t be difficult if you check out the impressive facilities and offers at Copthorne Hotel Merry Hill Dudley. This modern 4 star hotel is facing the Waterfront Canal Marina and Merry Hill Shopping Centre serving its guests the serenity of nature while keeping them in close company to the material amenities they desire.

Traditional Dance – an embodiment of Thai culture and traditions

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Ornamental accessories, golden tapering headdresses, glamorous vibrant costumes and the graceful movement of a group of performers define the attributes of Thai traditional dancing.
There are 2 main types of Thai dances, namely Classical Dance and Folk Dance. A sub genre encompasses all regional dances performed for various seasons and festivals originating from the regions North, Northeast, South and Central. Most of the traditional dances are based on epics and folklore. Hence they are called dance dramas and are performed usually by a group of dancers. These dancers fascinatingly mime to the chorus harmonised from backstage.
Classical dance forms still retain their original splendour since they are strictly traditional and not innovative. Incorporating 108 basic movements, the dancers need to perform while keeping their upper body upright. They can use their knees to bend and stretch, synchronizing with the traditional music. The hand and finger movements are complex yet alluring and together with ornate costumes dazzling under the spotlights, their performances become truly spellbinding.
The highest form of Classical dance drama of Thailand is called Khon. This regal performance is presented by dancers dressed in multicoloured handworked costumes wearing ornamental gold headdresses and masks. Khon dance drama is based on the Ramakien, a Thai national story derived from the famous Indian epic Ramayana. These were written and revised during the era of the Thai kings Rama I and Rama II.
The next high form of classical dance style Lakhon is mainly performed by female dancers and they are based on folklore as well as Jataka tales, and the Indian literature encompassing the previous births of the Buddha.
Likay, Ram Muay and Wai Khru are some of the folk dance styles of Thailand. These styles are characterised by comedy and subtle performances, where costumes can be either contemporary or traditional. The popular Muay Thai, a type of Thai martial arts, is derived from Ram Muay dance style. Some of these folk dances have evolved with time and are influenced and enriched by different cultures and dance forms.
During ancient times classical dance forms were held for the prestiged and esteemed echelons of Thai Society. This has evolved to all cross sections of Society, and travellers and locals alike can enjoy a variety of cultural presentations through the ample number of theatres across Bangkok and citywide offering such shows. Travellers can find comfortable Bangkok hotel accommodation by staying at the Bangkok President Solitaire, an ideal and well reputed Bangkok Sukhumvit hotel.

Samphran Elephant Ground & Zoo: The perfect destination for animal lovers

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f you are looking for a popular tourist hot spot in the outskirts of Bangkok, Samphran Elephant Ground and Zoo is certainly the place to be. Just one hour drive west of Bangkok, this place is situated on 60 acres of land in Petkasem Road of Samphran district. The elephant and the crocodile wrestling show attract many tourists from around the world, whilst the elephant show is considered to be one of the best in Thailand.

Samphran Elephant Ground and Zoo was officially opened in 1985 as a family playground and a tourist destination. It was also a center for Orchid reproduction and crocodile breeding. This place houses more than 10,000 crocodiles today. The elephant theme show was first initiated with just four elephants, today it has become one of the main attractions of these famed elephant grounds. In addition to the two main shows, tourists have the opportunity of experiencing an elephant ride, magic shows and elephant musical shows.
An elephant show comprises a variety of acts and performances. The highlight of the elephant show is the round-up ceremony of Suay people, which is an acknowledgement of the relationship between the elephant and trainer or what is referred to as a mahout. Another enjoyable sighting is the baby elephants kicking a foot ball and dancing. The Yutha Hathi performance, is a reenactment of a royal battle scene during the Ayuthaya Period and shows vistors the rich cultural history of Thailand.
Travelling is somewhat far, so finding the most convenient mode of transport is important. If you are going by a car, then you can have two options. First one will be driving to Phetkasem Road to 30 km, and then the Samphran Elephant Ground and Zoo sign can be seen on the left side. Second Option is to drive on Pinklao – Nakhon Chai Si Road and turn to your left to Phutthamonthon 4 Road, and drive for 5km. The Bus route involves taking the bus line number 123 from Tha Chang; get down at the Samphran Elephant Ground and Zoo.
Samphran Elephant Ground and Zoo is a very popular attraction in Thailand to be explored and Compass Hospitality provides its visitors with a centrally located Bangkok accommodation that allows guests easy access to the many popular tourist attractions in and around the city. This hotel provides elegant luxury apartments in Bangkok with modern facilities and exceptional Thai service.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theater – A glimpse of a compelling form of ancient Vietnamese stagecraft

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A traveller who shakes his head at the disappearance of local culture in Vietnam should think twice about it once he sets foot in Hanoi. This atmospheric city which will celebrate its 1000th birthday in 2010 has a seal of cultural influence on almost everything it has in offer, even in the enchanting light hearted comedy presented through intricately skilled puppetry. Water puppetry is unique to Northern Vietnam, originated in the rice-farmer folk culture. Puppets that dance in shallow pools of foggy water accompanied by voices and folklore music present skillful and realistic theatrical items. This family friendly treat can be experienced at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi.

The storylines of these theatrical performances will include the tale of the Hoan Kiem Lake Turtle and the establishment of ancient Hanoi. Audiences will continue to laugh with delight throughout the act when they see the truly amazing miniature villagers dancing around and dragons slithering across the surface of the water. Although the characters converse in Vietnamese language, it does not hinder the enjoyment of the viewer as the story is comprehensible through their gestures. In the end the audience will be given a sense that they were watching live characters onstage. Water puppetry art is a compelling form of ancient stagecraft as the characters, presented in the form of puppets are commute with nature. The puppet figures are simple and rough sculpture works of vibrant colour, moving back and forth over the water. The liquid feature and the flickering reflections would enthrall the audience. The music and innovative fireworks will add on to the effective performance.

Targeting Hanoi accommodation with easy access to the theatre (to avoid disappointment in finding that the tickets are sold off, as is often the case), would be wise. Somerset Hoa Binh is one of the most preferred places offering Hanoi serviced apartments for business and leisure travelers. This luxurious hotel is a 20 minute drive from the Noi Bai Airport and also gives guests easy access to key city districts like Hoan Kiem and Ba Dinh. Other popular tourist attraction such as the Hanoi Fine Art Museum, Old Quarter, Hanoi Opera House and Hoan Kiem Lake are also close by.

California Poppy Festival, celebrating blooming poppies.

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California Poppy Festival is an annual festival that takes place at the Lancaster City Park in spring. The festival is hosted by the city of Lancaster which boasts of poppies as their state flower. This festival also started as part of the earth day celebrations where the California poppy blooms during the period of the earth day.
Visitors of this festival are guaranteed of various exhibits, performances and other activities enabling them to have a maximum entertaining experience. This festival has enough activities spreading over an area of 55 acres assuring family fun and entertainment. Throughout the festival ground visitors will find professional musicians. Each year the organizers of this festival make sure that novelty is added where a variety of enticing attractions are offered. The aerospace and aviation section displays newest technological innovations in America’s aerospace firms. Get a close look at rare birds, reptiles and insects in the animal section and pay a visit to the arts and crafts section where items such as handmade wooden toys, stained glass, glassware, stoneware, aromatic soaps, denim clothing, silk floral pieces, candles, artwork, wooden hammocks, and many more are on offer.
At the farmer’s market an array of fresh flowers, bonsai trees, garden ornaments, assorted plants and wildflower seeds can be easily found. Feel the rhythm of different cultures by visiting the international market which brings exotic sounds and sights of foreign cultures and regions. Let the kids enjoy themselves by visiting the adventure zone where acrobatic talents of animals and also the zany performances can be seen. More than 100 adventure sports activities offered in Healthy Living Pavilion makes sure that you learn to improve your body in and out.
While you visit this festival find accommodation in one of the hotels in Pasadena such as Langham Hotel Pasadena which provides luxurious facilities to its visitors.

Walt Disney Concert Hall, A Place To Remember

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The Walt Disney Concert Hall is situated at 111 South Grand Avenue, Downtown Los Angeles, California in the Los Angeles Musical Center. The Walt Disney Concert Hall is the 4th hall at the Los Angeles Music Center. This entertainment facility has a capacity to hold 2, 265 people and is the home of the Los Angeles Master Chorale and the Los Angeles Philharmonic orchestra. The Walt Disney Concert Hall is located between Grand Avenue, Hope Street, 1st Street and 2nd Street.
The cost of construction of the Walt Disney Concert Hall is estimated to be about $274 million. The construction of the Walt Disney Concert Hall started in December of the year 1999 and was completed in 2003. Yet the initial ground work of the project was started in 1987. The launching of the project began after the widow of Walt Disney, Lillian Disney, donated $ 50 million. The architect who designed the Walt Disney Concert Hall was Frank Gehry, who completed the designs by 1991 however due to lack of funds the constructions was brought to a halt during the years 1994 to 1996. The Walt Disney Concert Hall was opened to the public on the 23rd of October 2003. The acoustics of the hall were designed by Yasuhisa Toyota.
While visiting the Walt Disney Concert Hall is would be recommended to stay at one of the Pasadena Hotels. Out of the many hotels in Pasadena a good favorite would be the Langham Hotel Pasadena.

Traditional Khmer music and Dance

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The Khmer empire which is better known today as Cambodia was one of the biggest and long lasting Empires of South East Asia. However in recent centuries, this famous empire has been limited to a small territory following the rule of Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. This empire has gifted many valuable cultural and political aspects to the world.
Among the empire’s most renowned features are Traditional Khmer music and dance. Khmer classical dance is a unique form of Cambodian dance styles. However it does hold some similar features with other dance forms practiced in Laos and Thailand. This ancient form of art is also known in English as Khmer royal ballet and Cambodian court dance. In the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity list of UNESCO, Khmer classical dance is known as the Royal Ballet of Cambodia.
In Khmer, this traditional form of dance is referred to as ‘robam’ or dances of royal wealth. However when the Lon Nol regime of Cambodia was in power it was commonly known as robam kbach boran khmer which means Khmer dance of the ancient style.
Khmer classical dance is an immensely stylized form of art which is primarily practiced by females. Therefore, during the French protectorate period, this dance form was performed in royal palaces. Compared to French ballet, this unusual form of dance has various unique movements and gestures where the dancers dance while acting out a story. These dancers are not allowed to sing, speak or move their mouth at all. With only a slight smile on their faces, these well trained dancers who have been practicing the art from a very young age tell the audience a story through their dancing.
The main roles in Khmer classical dance include men, maidens, ogres, mermaids, garudas and monkeys. Costumes used to depict the best of these characters are in general profoundly and skilfully embroidered. Some costumes are accessorised by sequins and even gems.
A pinpeat orchestra is used in order to provide music to Khmer classical dance. This one of a kind orchestra features instruments such as drums, gongs and oboes. During the time when the orchestra does not provide music for the dance, a group of singers sing choruses that describe the story of the dance. Well known traditional musical pieces include Raev, Reay, Cheut Chhing, Sathukar and Krao Nai.
Those who wish to explore and learn more about this mesmerizing form of art can do so by staying at a well serviced Phnom Penh hotel. Travellers can also choose to stay at a luxury hotel in Phnom Penh and experience stylish and elegant accommodation for a memorable holiday getaway.

Siam Niramit – A magnificent cultural spectacle

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The culture, the food, the atmosphere of Bangkok is truly any traveler’s delight. Whether you want to roam the city, go shopping, golfing or just sight seeing, this is a city that will not disappoint.
When speaking about culture, an intricate part of any culture is art, music and dance, so to understand the true heritage of this mystic filled country a visit to the world famous Siam Niramit should be on any tourists list of things to do.
This famous show in Bangkok draws crowds from all-around and is one of the most breath taking events that take place in Thailand. Siam Niramit is a spectacular performance that magnificently showcases the culture and heritage of Thailand.
Located in the midst of Bangkok, this show performance uses the modern and the traditional stagecraft to amplify and astound its viewers. With over 150 performers and more than five hundred costumes at display, this show is an exciting experience and inspirational event to witness. Making use of the newest technologies in special effects and entertainment in order to amplify the history of Thailand, this show will be a journey through time and space that is sure to leave fond and unforgettable memories in your mind.
If you thought Siam Niramit was just a great show you’re quite mistaken. Spread out across ten acres you are sure to find other attractions that complement the performance being held at the main stage. The traditional Thai village and the Thai buffets available around are sure to please your taste buds. The many traditional arts, crafts and Thai keepsakes sold in the shops are rather enjoyable to go through and choose.
To find one of the most convenient Bangkok serviced apartments in the city, why not try the Bangkok Royal President? This Bangkok Sukhumvit hotel with its mix of old world charm and modern living places is one of the most perfect places to escape to after an exhilarating night at the Siam Niramit.

The Imperial Palace: The Emperor’s Home

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Situated in Chiyoda, Tokyo, the Imperial Palace is the official residence of the Emperor of Japan. Positioned on the former location of Edo Castle, the Imperial Palace is a massive park area surrounded by enormous stones right in the heart of Tokyo.
Japan was ruled by Tokugawa Shogun from the Edo Castle during the period of 1603 to 1867. Shogunate was defeated in 1868 and as a result the capital and Imperial Palace of the nation was moved to Tokyo. It was in 1888 that the creation of the new Imperial Palace commenced which was later destroyed due to the World War two. However, following the devastation, the palace was restored according to its former glory.
Located in close proximity to the Tokyo Station, the Imperial Palace consists of different types of buildings like the private house of the imperial family and the main palace. This charming palace occupies a land area of 3.41 square kilometres including the beautiful gardens. The modern day palace boasts multiple structures which are connected to each other. It was constructed by Takenaka Corporation according to contemporary style revealing some fine Japanese architectural styles.
The complex today includes 7 wings, namely Seiden State Function Hall, Homeiden State Banquet Hall, Chowaden Reception Hall, Rensui Dining Room, Chigusa Chidori Drawing Room and the Emperor’s work office. The palace is a venue for hosting state ceremonies and receiving state guests. The Pine Chamber also known as the Matsu-no-Ma is the emperor’s throne room.
On New Year’s Day and on the Emperor’s birthday, the public gets the opportunity to enter the palace through the Nakamon or inner gate. During these special days the imperial family makes their prestigious public appearance on the balcony. The Emperor addresses the jubilant crowd with a special speech and wishes them good health and prosperity.
This amazing palace can be closely explored by staying at a Tokyo luxury hotel. Most Luxury accommodation in Tokyo offers world class facilities together with warm hospitality and friendly service. For instance, Shangri-La Hotel, Tokyo provides facilities that suit both business and leisure travellers.
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