February 2012

10 MINUTES WITH... HARESH SHARMA

We chat with the co-artistic director of the M1 Singapore Fringe Festival 2012 about this year's art showcase

10 MINUTES WITH... HARESH SHARMA

INTERVIEW ZUHARA YUSOFF

WHY HAS ART & FAITH BEEN CHOSEN AS THIS YEAR'S THEME?
The festival has always been known to select a theme which is topical and relevant to the times. We wanted to explore the theme of faith and its relationship with art, artists and audiences. We selected works which dealt not only with the idea of faith as institutionalised religion, but also the notion of beliefs, systems, personal, cultural and societal structures, etc. — ideas of faith that seem particularly salient in this day and age.

WHAT KIND OF IMPACT DO YOU THINK ART & FAITH WILL HAVE ON AUDIENCES HERE?
We hope that the festival will broaden the horizons and mindsets of the audience. We seek to present thought-provoking works which question and challenge the status quo, present new meanings, definitions and perspectives, and which allow for audience participation and feedback.

HOW MUCH PRESSURE DO YOU FEEL IN PUTTING TOGETHER SUCH A BIG EVENT LIKE THIS?
I work with a very strong team headed by artistic director Alvin Tan. The team of administrators and production personnel are dedicated and hardworking, making sure every aspect of the festival runs smoothly. There is pressure of course, but the adrenaline keeps us going.

YOUR PLAY SINGAPORE WILL BE FEATURED AGAIN AFTER A SOLD-OUT RUN LAST YEAR. WHY HAS IT BEEN INCLUDED IN THE CURRENT LINEUP?
We received many requests from people who missed it, asking us to re-stage it. We also feel the play resonates with the theme of Art & Faith. Singapore looks at the conflicts and negotiations of people living here — do they have faith in one another or only in themselves?

WHAT DOES FAITH MEAN TO YOU?
Faith means exuding a positive energy and being sensitive and attentive to those around me.

M1 Singapore Fringe Festival 2012 is on from 15-26 February at various venues. Tickets at www.sistic.com.sg






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