The Asian juggernaut is evolving at a phenomenal rate as Asia assimilates, develops and contributes to the global economy while constantly building a collective voice and identity. Asian pride has never been more evident than today, where the movers and shakers of Asia are capturing the attention of the world. In this light, Asia on the Edge 2008 seeks to highlight the birth, growth and re-emergence of Asia, as well as its contribution to the world.

Asia on the Edge 2008 will be held at The Arts House and the surrounding Empress Place precinct from 28 November to 6 December 2008. This festival comprises an exciting line up of events such as forums, talks, performances, exhibitions and gastronomic celebrations. Key personalities, trend spotters and leading experts across disciplines of academia, literature, culinary, and performing and visual arts have been lined up to anchor the free and ticketed programmes, promising the audience nine days of thought-provoking topics, engaging culture and lifestyle activities, and performing and installation art works that will trace the evolution of the Asian identity set against a global landscape.

Asia on the Edge is co-organised by The Arts House and PICO, and supported by the Singapore Tourism Board.


The theme for the first festival is 'Origins', which seeks to explore and examine what it means to be Asian in the 21st century vis-à-vis its historical and cultural landscape, and its constant evolution in this increasingly globalised society.


A world in balance and harmony

• To showcase Asia's thought leaders, innovators and artists
• Deepen cultural, social and economic engagement within Asia and the world
• Promote awareness and understanding of the Asian identity to an international audience