Singapore has a striking new cultural hotspot. IMBA Theatre has officially opened at Gardens by the Bay, introducing a fresh lifestyle destination that blends immersive art, large-scale storytelling, dining, retail, and community experiences all in one place.
Launched on 21 April 2026, IMBA Theatre is Singapore’s first venue dedicated to large-scale immersive storytelling and gallery exhibitions. The new space opens with two headline presentations: Botero in Singapore and David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not Smaller and Further Away). Together, they set the tone for what IMBA promises to be — a bold new platform where art, culture, and lifestyle meet.
What’s New and Why It Matters
Located within Gardens by the Bay, IMBA Theatre adds a new layer to Singapore’s cultural scene. Spanning over 80,000 square feet, the venue features a major gallery, two purpose-built black box theatres fitted with advanced projection and sound technology, plus lifestyle spaces designed to make the visit feel more complete.
This is not just an exhibition venue. It is designed as an all-in-one experience where visitors can enjoy immersive art shows, browse exclusive merchandise, and soon dine at a wellness-focused café.
The grand opening was officiated by David Neo, Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth of Singapore, alongside representatives from IMBA and Gardens by the Bay.
The Opening Highlights: Botero and Hockney Take Centre Stage
Botero in Singapore
One of the biggest opening attractions is Botero in Singapore, described as the world’s first tri-format experience dedicated to the life and legacy of the late Colombian artist Fernando Botero.
A major highlight is A Life in Fullness, an original 40-minute immersive audiovisual portrait of the artist. Produced in close collaboration with Botero’s eldest son, Fernando Botero Zea, the experience explores the personal and creative journey of the artist through laughter, struggle, and triumph.
Visitors can also discover nearly 130 original works displayed across IMBA Theatre and Gardens by the Bay. These include monumental sculptures, paintings, drawings, and interactive activities that celebrate Botero’s iconic “Boterismo” style and his seven-decade career.
The Heart of Volume gallery exhibition has been extended until 31 May 2026. Tickets for A Life in Fullness went live on 21 April 2026 at 4pm via the IMBA website, and ticket holders also enjoy free entry to the Heart of Volume exhibition.
David Hockney: Bigger & Closer
Also making its Southeast Asia debut at IMBA Theatre is David Hockney: Bigger & Closer (not Smaller and Further Away).
Presented under license from Lightroom UK, this immersive audiovisual show takes visitors through six decades of Hockney’s artistic career. The production features some of his most iconic works, lesser-known pieces, and even new creations developed specifically for the immersive format.
Narrated by David Hockney himself and set to an original score by composer Nico Muhly, the experience offers a deeply personal look into the artist’s world. IMBA is currently the only venue in Southeast Asia authorised to present Lightroom’s digital productions, giving the theatre a unique edge in the region’s immersive arts landscape.
More Than Art: Lifestyle Experiences at IMBA
IMBA Theatre is designed to be more than a place to view exhibitions. It also offers visitors a curated lifestyle experience that extends beyond the gallery walls.
Prudential Experience Zone
One of the standout features is the Prudential Experience Zone, created in partnership with Prudential Singapore as part of its 95th anniversary celebrations.
This immersive zone includes a 14-metre digital passage where visitors can create their own avatars and enter Lah Lah Land, a playful digital world filled with local icons and Singapore-inspired details. Think the Singapore Flyer, Esplanade, shophouses made of Nyonya kueh, and even a chilli crab-shaped castle.
There is also a Botero-inspired photo booth where visitors can “Botero-rise” themselves and create a fun keepsake from their visit.
IMBA Stacked Store
Shoppers can stop by the IMBA Stacked Store, which is managed by Stacked Store and features official merchandise and collectibles.
Known for its design-led curation, the store offers IMBA-exclusive pieces and limited-edition items inspired by its exhibitions and artists. Some highlights include Botero-themed art prints, rugs, mugs, and umbrellas created specially for the venue.
It is a nice stop for visitors who want to bring home something creative and memorable.
Realm Café
Starting from June 2026, visitors can also dine at Realm Café, a modern wellness café concept designed to complement IMBA’s immersive environment.
The café aims to provide a space for rest, connection, and recharge between experiences. Beyond food and drinks, Realm Café will also host community and wellbeing programmes in the future.
More details are expected to be announced on IMBA’s official website.
Supporting Local Creativity
Alongside its global presentations, IMBA is also making space for Singapore’s creative community.
The venue will present works by contemporary Singaporean artist IC Koh as its first local artist exhibition. IMBA also plans to collaborate with local artists and institutions, including Nanyang Polytechnic’s School of Design and Media, to develop original content and new intellectual property.
This local-global mix gives IMBA a stronger identity as a cultural platform, not just an event venue.
Location, Address, and How to Get There
IMBA Theatre
Gardens by the Bay
Singapore
IMBA Theatre is located within Gardens by the Bay, making it easy to pair your visit with the rest of the attractions in the area.
How to get there
The easiest way is to travel by MRT and head to Bayfront MRT Station, Exit B, which connects conveniently to Gardens by the Bay. From there, follow the signs into the Gardens and make your way to IMBA Theatre.
You can also arrive by taxi, ride-hailing services, or private car, especially if you are planning a longer day out around Marina Bay.
Operating Hours
The uploaded release does not list official daily opening hours for IMBA Theatre. Visitors should check IMBA’s official website before heading down for the latest exhibition timings and entry information.
Pro Tips Before You Visit
Book tickets online early, especially for the immersive Botero and Hockney experiences, as these are likely to draw strong interest.
Give yourself enough time to explore properly. IMBA is more than a single exhibition stop, so it is worth planning for the gallery spaces, immersive zones, and merchandise store.
If you are visiting from June onward, consider timing your trip to include a break at Realm Café.
It is also a good idea to combine your visit with other Gardens by the Bay attractions for a full-day outing.
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