1. What is the significance of The Cathay in Singapore’s history?
The Cathay is a significant landmark in Singapore’s history for several reasons:1. Cultural Significance: The site of The Cathay was originally occupied by the Malayan Theatre, which was built in 1939 and served as a popular entertainment venue for both locals and British soldiers during World War II. After the war, many important cultural events were held at the theatre, making it an important hub for arts and culture in Singapore.
2. Modern Architecture: When The Cathay was rebuilt in 1947 after being destroyed during the war, it became one of the first modern shopping complexes in Singapore, featuring innovative architectural designs such as a curved staircase and illuminated glass frontage. Its unique design attracted visitors from all over Southeast Asia and helped to shape Singapore’s image as a progressive and modern city.
3. Economic Development: In 2006, The Cathay underwent a major renovation and reopened as a mixed-use complex comprising retail shops, restaurants, offices, and apartments. This development contributed to the revitalization of the surrounding area and boosted economic activity in the vicinity.
4. Cinematographic History: The Cathay Cinema, which opened in 1939, has played an important role in Singapore’s film history. It was one of the first cinemas to showcase local films made by Shaw Brothers Studios, contributing significantly to Singapore’s film industry.
5. Heritage Conservation: In 2003, The Cathay building was gazetted as a conservation site under the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). This designation recognizes its historical significance and ensures that it will be preserved for future generations to appreciate.
Overall,the presence of The Cathay has been intertwined with various aspects of Singapore’s history – from its cultural significance to its economic development – making it an iconic symbol of the country’s progress and growth over time.
2. How old is The Cathay and what was its original purpose?
The Cathay is 83 years old and its original purpose was a luxury cinema. It was originally named The Chinese Theatre when it opened in 1939.
3. What are some interesting architectural features of The Cathay?
Some interesting architectural features of The Cathay include:1. Art Deco Design: The Cathay has a distinct Art Deco design, which was popular in the 1920s and 1930s. This style is characterized by its use of geometric shapes, bold colors, and intricate detailing.
2. Tower and Dome: At the top of the building stands a tower with a dome, which is one of the most recognizable features of The Cathay. This tower is also illuminated at night, making it a prominent landmark in the city skyline.
3. Decorative Elements: The building’s facade features ornate details such as stylized floral motifs, carved reliefs, and intricate patterns. These decorative elements add to the overall grandeur of the building.
4. Façade Lighting: The Cathay is known for its vibrant façade lighting, which changes color throughout the night. This lighting adds to the visual appeal of the building and makes it stand out among other structures in the area.
5. Curvilinear Balconies: One unique feature of The Cathay’s design is its curved balconies. These balconies not only add visual interest to the building but also provide residents with stunning views of the surrounding area.
6. Marble Staircase: Inside The Cathay’s main lobby, there is a grand marble staircase leading up to the cinema theatres on higher floors. This staircase not only serves as a functional element but also adds to the luxurious atmosphere of the building.
7. Mix of Commercial and Residential Spaces: The Cathay was originally built as a mixed-use development with retail spaces on its lower floors and residential units above. This allowed for a seamless integration between living spaces and entertainment options.
8. Roof Garden: Located on top of one of the wings of The Cathay is a beautiful roof garden that offers visitors panoramic views of Singapore’s skyline while providing a serene escape from busy city life.
9. Revolving Doors: The main entrance of The Cathay features large, multi-panel revolving doors, a design element commonly used in Art Deco buildings. These doors not only add to the building’s aesthetic but also serve as functional entrances for high pedestrian traffic.
10. Heritage Features: Although it has undergone several renovations over the years, The Cathay still retains some of its original heritage features, such as its iconic dome and tower, making it a significant historical landmark in Singapore’s architecture.
4. Can you tell me about the cultural significance of The Cathay within Singapore’s Indian community?
The Cathay holds a rich cultural significance within Singapore’s Indian community. Firstly, it is one of the oldest and most iconic cinema theatres in the country. Many generations of Indian families have fond memories of watching Bollywood and Tamil films at The Cathay, making it a nostalgic and sentimental place for many.
Additionally, The Cathay has also been a hub for Indian cultural events and activities. It has hosted numerous film festivals showcasing Indian films, as well as cultural performances such as traditional dances and music concerts. This has helped to promote and preserve Indian culture within the larger Singaporean society.
The Cathay is also known for its location in the Little India district, which is considered a cultural hub for Singapore’s Indian community. This further adds to its significance as a gathering place for socializing with fellow Indians and experiencing familiar cultural surroundings.
Furthermore, The Cathay serves as a platform for promoting Indian businesses in Singapore. It houses several retailers and eateries that cater to the needs of the local Indian community. This highlights its role in supporting the economic growth and development of the community.
Overall, The Cathay holds immense cultural significance within Singapore’s Indian community as a beloved entertainment venue, cultural center, social gathering spot, and supporter of local businesses.
5. Are there any notable events or performances that have taken place at The Cathay over the years?
Yes, there have been several notable events and performances at The Cathay over the years. Some of them include:
– The first ever charity premiere in Singapore was held at The Cathay in 1939, with proceeds going to the International Red Cross.
– In the 1960s, renowned Hong Kong singer and actor, Bruce Lee, made a guest appearance at The Cathay theatre during a promotional tour for his film “The Big Boss”.
– In 1977, the Singapore Festival of Arts (now known as the Singapore International Festival of Arts) was held at The Cathay, showcasing a variety of performing arts events including plays, concerts and dance performances.
– In 1986, acclaimed pianist Richard Clayderman held a sold-out concert at The Cathay theatre.
– Various international film festivals have also been hosted at The Cathay over the years including the French Film Festival, Japanese Film Festival and Korean Film Festival.
– Local band The Sam Willows performed their first live show at The Cathay theatre in December 2012.
– In 2015, popular Kpop group BTS held their first fan meeting in Singapore at The Cathay Cineleisure rooftop.
– At the annual Asian Television Awards (ATA) held in Singapore since 2003, some conferences and award nights were also conducted at various venues within The Cathay building.
6. How has The Cathay evolved over time, and what changes or renovations has it undergone?
The Cathay was originally built in the 1930s as a grand movie palace, showcasing the latest and greatest films of that era. It was one of the first air-conditioned cinemas in Singapore and quickly became a popular entertainment destination.However, with the rise of television and home entertainment systems in the 1980s, The Cathay began to face declining audiences and eventually closed its doors as a cinema in 1998.
In 2003, it was renovated and reopened as The Cathay Building, housing retail and office spaces. However, it wasn’t until 2006 when it underwent a major transformation into The Cathay Cineleisure Orchard, a hip lifestyle mall targeting young adults with a focus on fashion, technology, entertainment and dining.
In 2011, The Cathay underwent another round of renovations to expand and update its offerings. This included the addition of new tenants such as international fashion brands and an expansion of its cinema complex with more screens and advanced technology.
In recent years, The Cathay has also undergone changes such as rebranding itself as “Cathay” (dropping the “Cineleisure”) and continuously improving its facilities to cater to changing consumer preferences. Additionally, there have been regular events and promotions held at The Cathay to attract shoppers and visitors.
Overall, The Cathay has transformed from a traditional movie palace into a modern lifestyle destination that continues to evolve with the times.
7. Is there a specific area or attraction within The Cathay that visitors should not miss?
One attraction within The Cathay that visitors should not miss is the Cathay Gallery, which features a rotating collection of art and cultural exhibitions. The gallery showcases works by both local and international artists, making it a great place to discover new and emerging talents. Additionally, there are always unique and interesting events happening at the gallery, such as artist talks and workshops, which provide an interactive and immersive experience for visitors.
8. Can you recommend any must-try food or drinks at The Cathay’s restaurants or cafés?
1. The signature Chilli Crab Pasta at Dancing Crab is a must-try for its fusion of local and Italian flavors.
2. For a unique dining experience, try the Japanese-style hot pot at Shabu Sai that allows you to customize your own broth and choose from a wide selection of ingredients.
3. Those with a sweet tooth should try the handcrafted gelato at Kiss The Tiramisu, which features layers of creamy tiramisu and soft serve ice cream.
4. For something more traditional, head to Old Tea Hut for their flavorful claypot rice dishes cooked over charcoal fire.
5. Don’t miss the artisanal coffee and pastries at %Arabica – their speciality iced Spanish Latte is a crowd-favorite.
6. Satisfy your cravings for authentic Chinese cuisine with Yang Gui Fei’s stir-fried Cantonese classics like Sweet & Sour Pork or Gong Bao Chicken.
7. Cool down on a hot day with fresh fruit smoothies and bubble tea from LiHO TEA or iTea, popular bubble tea chains in Singapore.
8. Take your taste buds on a trip to Thailand with Mango Sticky Rice or Green Curry Chicken at Nara Thai Cuisine – known for their tasty yet affordable Thai fare.
9. What are some nearby historical landmarks or sightseeing spots that complement a visit to The Cathay?
1. Fort Canning Park
2. National Museum of Singapore
3. Istana Park
4. Battlebox at Fort Canning Hill
5. Quality Road Milestones at Cuppage Centre
6. Former National Library Building
7. Indian Heritage Centre
8. Singapore Art Museum
9. Asian Civilisations Museum
10. Singapore River and Boat Quay area
10. Are there any ghost stories or urban legends associated with The Cathay?
There are a few ghost stories and urban legends associated with The Cathay, although they vary in credibility. One story involves a former movie theater usher who haunts the building after his untimely death during a fire. Another story suggests that the ghost of a murdered actress still roams the building in search of her killer. Some visitors have reported strange sightings or eerie occurrences while inside The Cathay, fueling these ghostly tales. However, there is no concrete evidence to support these claims and they remain as unverified urban legends.
11. Has The Cathay been involved in any notable movie or film productions throughout its history?
Yes, The Cathay has been involved in several notable movie and film productions, including:– In the 1950s and 60s, it was a popular venue for film premieres and screenings, including major Hollywood productions such as “Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing” and “The Sound of Music.”
– In 1991, The Cathay was used as a filming location for the MTV music video “Do You Want Me (Remix)” by Salt-N-Pepa.
– In 2008, The Cathay hosted the Singapore premiere of “The Dark Knight,” which included appearances by the stars Christian Bale and Maggie Gyllenhaal.
– In recent years, The Cathay has also hosted screenings and events for local and international film festivals such as the Singapore International Film Festival, Silver Screen Awards, and Asian Television Awards.
12. How does The Cathay contribute to the local arts scene?
The Cathay plays several important roles in contributing to the local arts scene:
1. Hosting of local arts events and performances: The Cathay regularly hosts a variety of local arts events and performances, such as film festivals, theater productions, music concerts and art exhibitions. These events provide a platform for local artists to showcase their work and reach a wider audience.
2. Support for emerging artists: The Cathay has partnered with various local arts organizations to provide support for emerging artists. This includes providing exhibition spaces, sponsoring art competitions, and offering mentorship opportunities for young artists.
3. Collaboration with local arts groups: The Cathay works closely with local arts groups to develop innovative programs and initiatives that promote the development of the local arts scene. This includes collaborating on projects such as community art workshops, artist talks, and public art installations.
4. Promotion of Singaporean culture: The Cathay also promotes Singaporean culture through its programming, showcasing films, performances, and exhibitions that highlight the diversity of Singapore’s arts and culture.
5. Venue for film screenings: The Cathay is also known for its state-of-the-art cinema complex that screens both mainstream and independent films from both Singapore and around the world. This provides a space for filmmakers to showcase their work to a wider audience.
6. Sponsorship of arts education programs: The Cathay sponsors various educational programs aimed at nurturing young artistic talent in areas such as film, photography, and visual arts.
Overall, The Cathay’s efforts contribute significantly to fostering a vibrant and thriving local arts scene that celebrates creativity, diversity, and innovation in Singapore.
13. Is there a particular time of year when visiting The Cathay is especially recommended?
The Cathay is a popular destination year-round, but the holiday season (November-December) tends to bring more festive events and decorations in the surrounding areas. The Chinese New Year celebrations in February are also a great time to visit for a cultural experience.
14. Can you share any little-known facts about the history of The Cathay?
1. The Cathay building was initially home to the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce before being converted into a cinema in 1939.
2. It was designed by British architect Frank Brewer who also designed other iconic buildings in Singapore such as Raffles Hotel and Goodwood Park Hotel.
3. During World War II, the Japanese used The Cathay as their headquarters, and it survived several bombings.
4. The Cathay was one of the first cinemas in Singapore to be air-conditioned when it opened in 1939.
5. In 1948, a local production company called Tidbits Film Productions made its debut at The Cathay with their film “Cathay-kaleidoscope.”
6. After undergoing renovations in 1997, The Cathay reopened as a multiplex cinema with seven screens.
7. In 2000, the interior of The Cathay was designated as a conservation area by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) due to its historical significance.
8. In 2001, Singaporean filmmaker Jack Neo’s blockbuster hit “Liang Po Po: The Movie” premiered at The Cathay and went on to break box office records.
9. In the early days, movie-goers at The Cathay would often bring snacks from nearby food stalls or cook up meals using portable stoves before the film started.
10. In 2015, The Cathay underwent another round of renovations and introduced an interactive ticketing kiosk that allows customers to purchase tickets through self-service machines.
11. A popular club called Zouk used to be located on the fifth floor of The Cathay building before moving to its current location on Jiak Kim Street.
12. During renovations in 2015, an old adult film poster from the 1970s was discovered behind a wall paneling, indicating that adult films may have been screened at The Cathay during its early days.
13. The Cathay building has been featured in several films, including Crazy Rich Asians, where it served as the venue for the wedding of Nick Young’s good friend Colin Khoo.
14. In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, The Cathay Cinema collaborated with streaming platform Netflix to show popular films such as “The Kissing Booth 2” and “To All the Boys: P.S. I Still Love You” on its big screens for free to celebrate Singapore’s National Day.
15. What preservation efforts have been made to maintain the historic integrity of The Cathay?
The Cathay has undergone several preservation efforts in order to maintain its historic integrity, including:
1. Conservation and Restoration: In 1992, the Singapore National Trust initiated a conservation process to restore The Cathay’s original appearance and features. This included restoring the building facade and exterior decorations, as well as preserving the internal structure and layout.
2. Heritage Status: In 2003, The Cathay was designated a national monument by the National Heritage Board of Singapore, ensuring its protection from demolition or significant alterations.
3. Refurbishment: From 2008 to 2010, The Cathay underwent a major refurbishment project that aimed to preserve its unique Art Deco style while modernizing its facilities.
4. Adaptive Reuse: Rather than demolishing the building, The Cathay was adapted for new uses that allow it to continue serving as a prominent landmark in Singapore. It currently houses a cinema complex, restaurants, shops, and offices.
5. Historical Documentation: Various historical documents and photographs have been collected and archived to document The Cathay’s history and provide insight into its architectural significance.
6. Public Education: The National Heritage Board conducts educational programs at The Cathay to raise awareness about the building’s history and cultural significance among locals and tourists.
7. Periodic Maintenance: Regular maintenance checks are conducted to ensure the structural stability of the building and prevent any damage or deterioration over time.
8. Historic District Preservation: As part of ongoing efforts to preserve heritage buildings in the surrounding area, The Cathay is situated within the Civic District Conservation Area designated by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). This includes guidelines for preserving historical buildings in their original context while allowing for appropriate development.
9. Collaboration with Private Developers: In recent years, there have been collaborations between private developers and heritage groups to fund restoration projects for certain parts of The Cathay that require special attention due to aging infrastructure or natural wear-and-tear.
10. Periodical Inspections: The National Heritage Board conducts regular inspections to assess the state of preservation of The Cathay and address any potential issues that may arise.
16. Are there any guided tours available for visitors to learn more about the history of The Cathay and its surrounding area?
Yes, guided tours are available for visitors to learn more about the history of The Cathay and its surrounding area. These tours are conducted by licensed tour guides and can be arranged through the official website of The Cathay. The tours typically cover the historical background of The Cathay and its evolution over time, as well as interesting trivia and facts about the surrounding areas such as Dhoby Ghaut and Bras Basah. Visitors can also learn about notable landmarks and personalities that have shaped the history of this area.
17. Can you describe the atmosphere at The Cathay during major holidays or festivals?
The atmosphere at The Cathay during major holidays or festivals is typically lively and festive. The mall is usually decorated with thematic decorations and shoppers are greeted with holiday-themed events and promotions. There is also an increase in foot traffic as people flock to the mall for last-minute shopping or to simply soak in the festive atmosphere. During these times, there may be special performances or activities organized by the mall, adding to the bustling energy of the place. Overall, the atmosphere at The Cathay during major holidays or festivals is fun and vibrant, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
18. How has technology played a role in enhancing the visitor experience at The Cathay?
Technology has played a significant role in enhancing the visitor experience at The Cathay in several ways:
1. Online booking and ticketing: Technology has made it easier for visitors to book their movie tickets online, saving them the hassle of waiting in long queues at the cinema. This also allows visitors to choose their preferred seats, view showtimes, and make secure payments.
2. Digital wayfinding: The Cathay has a digital wayfinding system that helps visitors navigate their way around the complex, making it easier for them to find different facilities such as shops, restaurants, and cinemas.
3. Interactive screens: The mall has interactive screens strategically placed throughout the complex that provide information about events, promotions, and other activities happening at The Cathay.
4. Wi-Fi connectivity: The Cathay offers free Wi-Fi connectivity throughout the mall, allowing visitors to stay connected and access the internet while they shop or dine.
5. Social media: The Cathay is active on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, where they engage with visitors by sharing updates on new stores, events, and promotions. Visitors can also interact with The Cathay through these platforms and share their experiences.
6. Mobile apps: The mall has a mobile app that provides real-time information on cinema showtimes and offers exclusive deals and discounts for app users.
7. Digital displays: Large vibrant digital displays are installed at strategic locations within the mall to showcase advertisements of upcoming movies or promotions from tenants.
8. Online feedback forms: Visitors can provide feedback about their overall experience at The Cathay through online surveys or feedback forms available on their official website or social media platforms.
In conclusion, technology has greatly improved the visitor experience at The Cathay by providing convenience, entertainment, and information right at their fingertips.
19.Can you recommend any souvenir shops aroundTheCathaye that sell unique items related to Singapore’s history and culture?
Yes, here are a few souvenir shops around The Cathay that offer unique items related to Singapore’s history and culture:
1. By My Old Collection (The Cathay #B1-07) – This shop specializes in vintage and retro items, including old photographs, postcards, maps, and books about Singapore’s history.
2. Littered with Books (20 Duxton Road) – Located just a short walk from The Cathay, this bookshop has a wide selection of books on Singapore’s heritage and culture, as well as locally-made souvenirs such as tote bags and notebooks.
3. Haji Lane (Arab Street) – Known for its eclectic mix of independent shops and boutiques, Haji Lane is a great place to find unique souvenirs such as handmade crafts, artisanal products, and locally-designed apparel that showcase Singapore’s culture.
4. The Heritage Shop (8 Sago Street) – This shop offers a range of items that celebrate Singapore’s multicultural heritage, including traditional Chinese medicine, Peranakan fashion accessories, and handcrafted tea sets.
5. Chinatown Street Market (Pagoda Street) – Located in the heart of Chinatown, this street market is filled with stalls selling all kinds of souvenirs related to Singapore’s Chinese community, such as calligraphy paintings, traditional toys, and Chinese-style snacks.
20.How has support from local businesses and residents helped keepTheCathaya thriving landmark in Singapore’s landscape over the years?
Support from local businesses and residents has played a crucial role in keeping The Cathay a thriving landmark in Singapore’s landscape over the years. Some of the ways in which this support has helped are:
1) Patronage and loyal customers: Local residents have continued to visit The Cathay for its various offerings such as shopping, dining, and entertainment. Similarly, local businesses have also utilized the retail and office space at The Cathay. This consistent patronage has helped to sustain the business and keep it running successfully.
2) Collaborations and partnerships: The owners of The Cathay have collaborated with local businesses, organizations, and artists to bring unique and exciting events, exhibitions, and activities to the community. These partnerships have not only increased footfall to the mall but also improved its image as an iconic cultural venue.
3) Promotions and discounts: The Cathay has partnered with local businesses to offer promotions, discounts, and incentives to customers. This not only attracts more visitors but also fosters a sense of community spirit among residents.
4) Feedback and suggestions: Regular feedback from locals has allowed The Cathay to understand the needs of its customers better. This information is then used to improve its facilities and bring in new offerings that cater specifically to the interests of locals.
5) Social media presence: Local businesses and residents have shown immense support by promoting and sharing news about events happening at The Cathay on their social media channels. This has significantly helped in increasing awareness about the mall among a wider audience.
Overall, strong support from both local businesses and residents has helped The Cathay establish itself as one of Singapore’s most beloved landmarks over the years. By continuously engaging with the community and catering to their needs, it has built a loyal customer base that continues to help sustain its success.