The National Museum of Singapore has launched an exciting new exhibition. It’s the first part of a major revamp and is called “Singapore Odyssea: A Journey Through Time,” officially opening its doors on August 8.
The new exhibition is located in the now-renamed Shaw Foundation Glass Rotunda. This is the spot that used to feature the “Story of the Forest” exhibition.
The new show is described as a “multi-sensorial and interactive experience,” which uses all kinds of cool sights, sounds, and touch to really draw in visitors. The whole show highlights 700 years of Singapore’s history using animations and hands-on elements.
What to expect at the exhibition?
This isn’t just a regular walk-through. It’s designed to be an immersive “time-travelling voyage.”
The experience is split into four episodes that take visitors all the way from present-day Singapore back to its pre-colonial beginnings, with lots of local stories and myths mixed in.
One of the coolest features is a two-minute light show on a giant, suspended LED globe. This show traces the evolution of Singapore’s crucial maritime trade routes. There are also neat visual wall projections and soundscapes that bring historical moments to life.
The journey wraps up at the bottom of the rotunda with a digital waterfall curtain and a responsive floor that creates ripples as people walk on it.
To make the experience more personal, visitors are given a special RFID-enabled wristband. These wristbands come with one of nine different “companions” inspired by Singapore’s wildlife. These little companions help out during the journey by lighting up paths and triggering hidden animations.
At the end, visitors can digitally “release” their companion into a “digital well.” This is a symbolic act meant to encourage thinking about a sustainable future. The exhibition will also run alongside other shows, like “Once Upon A Tide.”
For all Singaporeans and permanent residents, admission is free, which is a great bonus!
