A Sea of Stories returns to Esplanade with folktales and music from Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam. Musicians from Open Score Project perform with narration by Jamil Schulze and Lian Sutton of Off Root Theatrics.
The school-focused production runs from 22 to 31 July 2026 at Esplanade Recital Studio and is recommended for children aged seven to 12.
What Children Will Encounter
Three folktales connect the programme’s journey across Southeast Asia. The music introduces instruments and traditions including the Indonesian saluang, Thai piphat ensemble and Vietnamese đàn bầu.
Narration gives young listeners a story route through unfamiliar sounds rather than presenting the instruments as isolated demonstrations. A post-show discussion follows each performance.
- Cultures featured: Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam.
- Focus: folklore, ethnic instruments and musical storytelling.
- Language: English.
Performance Dates And Ticketing
Morning and afternoon sessions are scheduled across weekdays from 22 to 31 July. Standard tickets are S$27. Every 20 student tickets bought for one performance by a mainstream school includes one complimentary teacher ticket.
SPED schools receive two complimentary teacher tickets for every 10 student tickets in one transaction. Eligible schools may also use the Tote Board Arts Grant under the published subsidy conditions.
- Venue: Esplanade Recital Studio.
- Recommended age: seven to 12.
- Admission age: seven and above.
Preparing A Young Listener
Before the show, locate the three countries on a map and listen briefly to each named instrument. Afterward, ask which sound carried melody, rhythm or atmosphere and how the folktale changed the way the music was heard.
Families can find more ideas in Little Big Red Dot’s Parenting & Family coverage.
- Arrive early enough for school-group seating.
- Tell the venue about access needs before the visit.
- Keep the post-show discussion in the day’s schedule.
