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 Wayang
at UbinThe Wayang Stage at the centre of Ubin Town has had a colourful history. At one time, before a school was set up in Ubin by the residents, it was a classroom for the kids of Ubin. Even today, the stage is sometimes used to house large dinners in Ubin Town and is the focus of other major events on the island. The Wayang Stage, however, comes into its own during the Chinese Seventh Lunar Month or Hungry Ghost Festival. The Chinese traditionally believed that at this time, the gates of Hell are opened allowing spirits to roam among us. To appease spirits, especially those who are lonely and have no living relatives, various traditional activities are held. "Hell Money" is burnt and offerings of food and other items are left as gifts for the spirits. Wayang or Chinese opera performances are held, with empty seats left at the front for the spirits. In Ubin, these traditions are very much still alive. Open air wayang performances are held at the stage as part of the Hungry Ghost Festival. This is NOT a special performance put up for the public, but a part of the way of life of the residents of Ubin. Here is a chance to take part in a dying tradition. Take a bumboat there and enjoy what may be the last of these performances. Here's a little posting I did on the NDP moblog about this event. Back to exploring Ubin Links
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