My Queenstown 我爱女皇镇

The decision this aged old army barracks was a recent one. In 2002, it was included in an Identity Plan unveiled by the URA to preserve and enhance the distinctive character of Gillman Village. Under the proposed plans, new commercial uses of the village was introduced and new buildings and car parks are built to draw more visitors.

Gillman Village was a quiet and serene place when MyQueenstown Team visited yesterday. The area was relatively unknown among Queenstown residents but we came to know that there was a steady increase in number of visitors to the pubs because it was located near the HortPark and Alexandra Arch, which was part of the Southern Ridges walking trail.

A stroll into Gillman Village soothed the mind and the soul of the tired body. The richness in heritage was comparable to any other districts in Queenstown and the old army barracks was fascinating to watch, considering we did not know about the living conditions of the soldiers in the yesteryears. While the army barracks resemble the Victorian bungalows in Portsdown, it differs in its mellowness and obscurity in nature.

 

Woohoo, this long stroll into the park has calm our senses and enriched us with knowledge on the natural world. Do come there and take a peek at the park! =)

MyQueenstown Team understands that there is no script in this Hokkien Opera as some of the actors are illiterate. Their team leader gave them an outline before the performance and distribute the characters. Unlike the popular getai shows, Hokkien Opera, according to Mr Lim, is declining. Younger Singaporeans are not willing to learn this form of opera because they do not understand the dialect. The team of performers at this particular opera show had met only for a few times a year during the Hungry Ghost Festival to practise. It is amazing they have delivered a tremendous performance.

Vivid expressions from the actors and actresses

Anna and Dee (Stage Names) are the female lead and male supporting lead (or jester) of this opera respectively. A jester is considered as a villain. Male leads are required to portray chaste and decent disposition while female leads are expected to portray their sentiments and love for their family and children. Both Anna and Dee are Hokkien opera enthusiasts and they have been performing for the past 10 years.