Talkback #TalkBack: Dancing teens in MRT linkways – charming or getting in your way?
Jan 28, 2026
Ho Su-Fen, Principal Research Fellow at NAFA and director of its Cultural Policy and Evidence Lab, studies arts education and cultural policy. She explains why youths choose MRT linkways to rehearse, how spontaneous performances activate public space, the balance between informal creativity and shared urban use, and practical compromises like avoiding peak commute times.
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Underground Spaces Double As Rehearsal Zones
- MRT linkways attract dancers because they're sheltered, cool and have reflective surfaces that resemble rehearsal spaces.
- These features make underground corridors naturally useful for spontaneous creative activation.
Technical Urbanism Enables Everyday Creativity
- Using MRT linkways reflects 'technical urbanism' — low-cost, short-term activation of public space by citizens.
- This signals a shift where arts and creativity become part of everyday urban life, not just formal venues.
Dedication Can Reduce The 'Cool' Factor
- Dedicated rehearsal venues exist but informal, non-prescribed spots retain appeal for some youths because they feel spontaneous.
- The same practical conveniences (familiarity, convenience) keep underground and ad-hoc spaces popular.