Images courtesy of IMBA

(Singapore, 21 April 2026) IMBA Theatre, Singapore’s first venue dedicated to large-scale immersive storytelling and gallery exhibitions, has officially opened at Gardens by the Bay, marking a new chapter in the city’s cultural landscape. Unveiled by Guest-of-Honour, David Neo, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth of Singapore, together with representatives from IMBA and Gardens by the Bay, the venue opened with two major presentations: Botero in Singapore, the world’s first tri-format experience jointly presented with the Fernando Botero Foundation; and David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not Smaller and Further Away), a landmark immersive experience presented in partnership with Lightroom UK that invites audiences to step into Hockney’s world, shaped directly through the artist’s eyes.

Licensed by Lightroom UK, IMBA is the only venue in Southeast Asia authorised to present Lightroom’s acclaimed digital productions, reinforcing its ambition to be a leading home for immersive storytelling in the region.  The Southeast Asia premiere of David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not Smaller and Further Away) at IMBA Theatre presents an immersive audiovisual journey created by Lightroom UK in close collaboration with the iconic British artist. The show spans six decades of David Hockney's career, bringing together iconic works, lesser-seen masterpieces, and new pieces created especially for the immersive format. The larger-than-life experience is set to an original score by acclaimed American minimalist composer Nico Muhly and narrated by Hockney himself.

As it was the opening event, I was not sure what to expect in this new facility. We were directed to one of the two black box theatres that was mostly empty except for bean bags scattered throughout and a few bench seats. We were encouraged to stretch out on the bean bags so we could take in the images that would appear all around and above you, and on the floor. I took a bench seat that allowed me to swivel around and take in the images that were on the back wall, behind me. 

I found the Hockney narrated experience fascinating as he talks about art and its creation. He takes you from his youth through to the present while his art lights up the world around you. He comments about specifics of art, such as perspective, taking you into his artistic perspective. For artists this show is certain to be inspiring. 

When the hour-long presentation was finished, we were welcomed into the foyer where the opening ceremony took place. Along with other dignitaries Botero’s eldest son, Fernando Botero Zea, was present and he gave an introduction to what we were about to see.

Michael Lee, CEO of IMBA, said, “Guided by our mission of Culture for All, IMBA is conceived as an open, welcoming space where curiosity grows and meaningful experiences begin. Bringing together art, culture and lifestyle, we offer new ways for audiences to see, experience and connect with the world around them. We are proud to launch larger-than-life experiences with Lightroom and the Fernando Botero Foundation for our opening, while bringing fresh and creative ways of life through art, design, food, and education for people of all ages and interests. These landmark experiences set the stage for what audiences can expect from IMBA, as we bring world-class cultural moments to Singapore.” 

Felix Loh, CEO of GB, said, “IMBA Theatre opens a new cultural chapter at Gardens by the Bay, enriching our vision of a People's Garden — a living space where nature and creativity blossom for the community. Within IMBA Theatre, the Gardens become a stage for immersive arts experiences that stir the imagination and move the heart, bringing access to arts and culture to all our visitors.” 

Creating larger than life experiences IMBA brings art, technology and the human experience together to create moments of wonder while appealing to audiences across generations. Developed in collaboration with leading architects, designers and technology partners, IMBA is purpose-built for storytelling through multiple formats — from traditional gallery presentations to large-scale immersive experiences and live performances.

A Life in Fullness is an original 40-minute audiovisual portrait of Maestro Botero narrated by and produced in close collaboration with Fernando Botero Zea. It is the world’s first ever immersive experience dedicated to Maestro Botero’s life and career. It guides audiences through laughter, struggle, and triumph, revealing Maestro Botero not just as an artist, but as a father and a man, ensuring his legacy endures—just like his art. 

The immersive journey completes Botero in Singapore, the world’s first and largest tri-format presentation featuring the life and legacy of the late Columbian artist. With nearly 130 original works across IMBA Theatre and Gardens by the Bay, visitors will encounter monumental sculptures, paintings, drawings, and activities that trace Botero’s seven-decade career and his distinctive “Boterismo” style. The presentation reflects IMBA’s commitment to Singapore as a gateway for world-class cultural presentations in Southeast Asia.  Heart of Volume has been extended to 31 May 2026. Tickets for A Life in Fullness are available on the IMBA website. Ticket holders will enjoy free entry to the Heart of Volume gallery exhibition.  

Spanning more than 80,000 square feet, IMBA Theatre comprises a major gallery, two purpose-built black box theatres with state-of-the-art projection and sound technology, as well as curated lifestyle experiences. These include a retail merchandise store, a wellness dining concept, and the Prudential Experience Zone — an immersive cultural zone by Prudential Singapore celebrating its 95th anniversary and its commitment to supporting every life and the generations to come. 

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