For this project, we were approached by the National Heritage Board to document Singapore’s funerary practices for the inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Through a 7–10-minute documentary and a 30-second trailer, it covers the history and cultural roots of 1-2 funerary practitioners. Our project title is "最后一程 The Last Journey".
This documentary explores a vanishing funerary practice in Singapore known as Teochew Lor Kor, a Taoist funeral performance involving brass instruments, loud drumming, music, and ritual movement believed to send off the dead respectfully and ward off negative spirits. Although it originated from Teochew, China and was brought to Singapore in the 1950s, the practice has evolved over time and has become a uniquely local tradition.
At the centre of this documentary is Gerald Tan, the founder of Bao Sheng Fu, an organisation that practices lion dance and Teo Chew Lor Kor funerary practice, who is committed to keeping Teochew Lor Kor alive for future generations despite being aware that the practice may eventually disappear. Through Gerald’s personal reflections and behind-the-scenes access to training sessions and performances, the documentary highlights the cultural meaning of the practice, the emotional impact it has on performers and grieving families, and the ongoing efforts required to sustain it.
The documentary also investigates the key challenges Teochew Lor Kor faces today, such as manpower shortage, youth disinterest, and limited spaces for noisy rehearsals. Despite these obstacles, the association continues to adapt by modernising certain visual elements while still preserving core traditions in hopes of passing down this intangible heritage before it becomes extinct.
Ultimately, this documentary aims to raise awareness about what is at stake when cultural practices fade, and why preserving them matters not only to the community but to the memories and identities tied to those who came before. It is also to raise advocate for the skills and knowledge of the craftspeople, and highlight the importance of keeping these traditions for future generations.
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