As we reflect on World Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Day on 18 Feb 2024, Singapore Theatre Company (STC), formerly known as Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT), remains steadfast in its dedication to making a positive difference beyond the stage, continuing to contribute to the community in impactful ways.  

The concept of CSR calls on companies to take a genuine interest in broader social issues, beyond what affects their bottom line. At the close of 2023, STC celebrated 5 years of championing accessibility in the arts for disabled communities in Singapore, and 11 years of making theatre financially accessible through our Student Education Fund (SEF). 

Set up more than a decade ago with the kind support of donors and companies, our SEF benefits more than 3,000 underprivileged children every year. More than just feel-good philanthropy, it's essentially an investment in the future of the arts.  

Over the years, the Student Education Fund has enabled students and teachers with financial constraints to attend and enjoy the magic of theatre through STC’s productions. But much of the work also extends beyond the theatre and into classrooms. Through theatre workshops and camps, we provide platforms for underserved communities to explore theatre as a creative process in their own lives, stimulating dialogue and giving tools to our next generation to be more creative, caring and connected individuals in the process. 
 

“We would like to thank all of you as well as the donors for this precious experience that we have had for our children. Without this collaboration, it would not be possible for our school community to be part of such an experience. The families gave wonderful feedback after the excursion and as a post excursion experience, the children shared about creating a THANK YOU card for all of you. I am attaching it to this email and thank you once again for this learning experience.” 

– Tai Jia Hui, Star Learners Bukit Merah 

In 2023, STC piloted a 6-month programme with Chinese Development Assistance Council (CDAC) to reach a number of their beneficiaries at a deeper level, building a stronger connection to theatre and the creative arts and creating longer-term impact. The programme featured monthly workshops on different elements of theatre, from movement to playwriting and prop-making, culminating in a showcase on the STC stage.  
 

“This was a completely different experience from art classes that they had had, as some of them were able to link the props that they were making to the short play they wrote. More than just an arts and craft session. The kids were able to put together something and showcase it to their parents, it really allowed the kids to be creative and think outside of the box.”  

– Anglea Lin, CDAC 
 

With further development of this programme in 2024, it is poised to serve as a testing ground for exploration into the impact of longer-term engagement and follow-up with the arts. 

Through the Access Arts Hub, STC has also conducted multiple training courses to build industry expertise across various fields in disability access, from audio description and creative captioning to accessible marketing. With the support of Temasek Foundation, we also kicked off Accelerate Access, a long-term residency programme working with Special Education (SPED) schools to provide arts-infused class experiences for students with special needs. 
 

“The teaching artists were able to strike a good balance between imaginative play and structure. Their sessions catered to the varying communication abilities in the class. We could see a different part of kids emerge that have not seen before. The students thoroughly enjoyed every lesson.”  

– Teacher at Rainbow Centre 
 

Accelerate Access enters its second semester at St. Andrew’s Autism Centre this year.  

By nurturing young minds and fostering a passion for theatre, the STC Student Education Fund cultivates tomorrow's audiences, actors, and storytellers. This not only secures the Company's legacy but also enriches the cultural tapestry of Singapore, ensuring inclusivity and accessibility for all. 

Find out more about STC’s milestones in arts accessibility for disabled communities here.