Alvin Tan

Advocate for freedom of expression through social theatre - standing up for human rights

A passionate advocate for social change, Alvin has produced controversial works such as Off Centre and Mobile which sought to bring remote voices into the mainstream through theatre. In 1994, he introduced forum theatre to Singapore, which became proscribed, but recently legalised. Despite having brushes with local authorities in challenging times, Alvin continues to push for individuals’ rights in the freedom of expression.

Off Centre, a play about mental illness, was conceived at a time when the society was still largely conservative and ran into some controversies. In 2007, it was selected to be the first Singaporean play offered at O and N levels. Constantly pushing limits and redefining boundaries, Alvin questions social norms and brings to light sensitive but critical issues. Founder and Artistic Director of The Necessary Stage (1987), Alvin's most recent play, Gemuk Girls, deals with the impacts of detention without trial. From 17-19 October, Alvin will Stand Up Against Poverty with ONE (SINGAPORE) and the Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP).

Standing up for the principles of the Universal Declaration
The Preamble of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights affirms that "everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family" Article 25. Article 22 guarantees the right to social security.

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Submitted by GCAP