Jeffrey Tan

Theatre Director | Creative Producer | Arts Educator | Creative leader shaping industry‑relevant theatre and arts‑for‑wellbeing programmes that empower communities and develop artists

Singapore, Singapore

About

I create theatre that connects people, challenges perspectives, and transforms spaces into meaningful human experiences. I am an international Theatre Director, Drama Educator and Creative Producer driven by a deep belief in the power of the arts as a catalyst for social change. My work has been presented across the UK, Australia and Singapore, spanning a diverse range of forms—from traditional theatre spaces to site-specific performances, and even intimate, home-based experiences. I am particularly drawn to creating theatre that is immersive, meaningful, and rooted in human connection. At the heart of my practice is a commitment to inclusivity and community engagement. I am passionate about working with children and seniors—both independently and intergenerationally—as well as collaborating with disabled artists. I believe theatre offers a safe, open space where all individuals can express themselves, be heard, and feel empowered. Alongside my creative practice, I have extensive experience in arts education and leadership. I have taught across Theatre, Production, Pedagogy and Arts Management at leading institutions in Singapore, including LASALLE College of the Arts, University of Arts Singapore (LASALLE UAS), Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts University of Arts Singapore (NAFA UAS), Ngee Ann Polytechnic, the Singapore Drama Educators Association, the National University of Singapore, and Nanyang Technological University. I am also experienced in leading and collaborating with multicultural teams across diverse contexts. My strengths lie in conceptualising tailored programmes, communicating effectively across cultures, and translating ideas into clear, actionable strategies for students, artists, and communities. Above all, I believe the arts are a vital space for self-discovery, dialogue, and the celebration of diverse perspectives and ways of working.

Experience

  • Adjunct Assistant Professor in Department of English, Linguistics & Theatre Studies at National University of Singapore
    Jun 2022 - Present · 4 yrs 2 mos

    I will be lecturing in 'Theatre and Community Engagement', a general elective for NUS Students. GEN2001. This course introduces students to how theatre can be an effective tool to engage communities. Leveraging on theatre’s inherent collaborative, experiential and embodied propensities, the course aims to raise student awareness of the sensitivities, responsibilities & creativity of Theatre in community engagement. Students will be tasked to envision and pitch theatre-centred community engagement projects.

  • Theatre Today (Self-employed · 10 yrs 3 mos)
    • Producer
      Jul 2016 - Present · 10 yrs 1 mo

    • Director, Educator, Producer
      May 2016 - Present · 10 yrs 3 mos

      Since becoming independent I have had the opportunity to run a 'Leadership through Festivals' workshop for a polytechnic. Write and Co direct 'Quest-Treasures Within' starring People's Association staff for their Appreciation Dinner, write, direct and produce 'CROSSROADS, YOU, TERRORIST' for the Association of Muslim Professionals and direct 'Shrimps in Space' a monologue by Desmond Sim for GenerAsia. I also facilitated a 'Sustainable Business Planning' for a small arts group.

  • Assistant Director, Talent Development and Programming at National University of Singapore
    Aug 2015 - Apr 2016 · 9 mos

    I oversaw the two students theatre companies (NUS Stage and Chinese Drama), the Exxon Mobil Crew, and programme for the two seasons a year Exxon Mobil Campus Concert (EMCC) and the annual NUS Arts Festival, every March. I also oversaw the CFA Alumni, CHEERS Community outreach, Arts Voice, access and outreach for the Festival.

  • Assistant Director at People's Association
    2012 - 2015 · 3 yrs

    I oversaw the North East District's Arts and Culture programmes in Aljunied, Pasir Punggol and Tampines. I also programmed three PAssionArts Festival 2013, 2014 and 2015. My last project with them was a very successful Community Theatre programme in collaboration with the Singapore Arts Festival. 25 landed property and Condominium owners co-created 30 min shows in their living rooms with 9 artist mentors. I also produced, and directed YESTERYEARS CC as part of the 50th anniversary of the People' Association's Citizens Consultative Committee.

  • National Arts Council, Singapore at Assistant Director
    Oct 2007 - 2012 · 4 yrs 4 mos

    I was Assistant Director with the Singapore Arts Festival. Two versions with Ms Goh Ching Lee. Focusing on Festival outreach to the community. i.e. Arts On the Move, visual arts installations, shopping centre shows and I introduced 'Arts where we eat'. Outside of the Festival, i oversaw the Busking scheme and Sing Singapore. For the last three years, I became Head, Commune for the Singapore Arts Festival. Reaching arts lovers, arts makers, arts volunteers and new audiences. I also ran two versions of the Kids Arts Village. By, for and with Children!