RE:ACT FESTIVAL 2026

2026 marks the 10th edition of re, inwardBOUND's flagship youth applied theatre programme that empowers young people to create original performances rooted in authentic human stories.

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To commemorate this milestone, this year's edition embraced the theme of Reminiscence Theatre. Moving beyond the classroom, our students became storytellers, researchers, and cultural custodians—venturing into the community to document the lived experiences of Singapore's seniors.

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In partnership with five Active Ageing Centres across Singapore, students conducted in-depth interviews with more than a dozen senior participants, listening to personal memories of the nation's evolving landscapes, neighbourhoods, landmarks, and places that have shaped their lives. These conversations became more than oral histories; they became bridges between generations, fostering empathy, curiosity, and meaningful dialogue.

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Drawing from these encounters, students devised a series of original theatrical performances inspired by the seniors' recollections. Through drama, movement, and collaborative storytelling, they reimagined familiar places not simply as physical locations, but as repositories of memory, identity, and belonging. The resulting works celebrated the richness of Singapore's shared heritage while giving voice to stories that might otherwise have remained unheard.

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re 2026 reflects our continued belief that theatre can be a powerful catalyst for community engagement and social connection. By placing young people and seniors in conversation with one another, the programme nurtures compassion, active listening, creative expression, and a deeper appreciation of the diverse experiences that make up Singapore's collective story.

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As we celebrate a decade of re, we also celebrate ten years of empowering young people to engage with real communities through the arts—using theatre not only as a performance medium, but as a way to preserve memories, strengthen relationships, and inspire meaningful social change.

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This programme is proudly supported by the National Arts Council (NAC), Singapore.