Introduction

The Old Hill Street Police Station stands today as MICA Building, the headquarters of the Ministry of Information, Communications and the Arts. Although built as a police station and barracks, the building’s significance lies in the history of the site, which was once associated with entertainment and education.



It was here, between 1845 and 1856, that the Assembly Rooms, a space for public functions and a building that housed a theatre as well as a school, once stood. After the Rooms were demolished, a temporary theatre was built where amateurs performed till 1861. The performances at the theatre were to raise funds for the scenery, costumes and properties for a new theatre at the new Town Hall at another location; this would eventually become the present Victoria Theatre and Concert Hall, a place of the performing arts.

1845 – 1856 The Assembly Rooms

The Assembly Rooms played in the social, arts and entertainment scene of 19th century Singapore society, from 1845 to 1856. Constructed under the superintendence of the architect D. L. McSwiney, the Assembly Rooms measured about 150 ft long and 80 ft wide, with a portico in the centre of the front, and were erected by subscription at a cost of about $6,000 (Spanish silver dollars). There were orchestra and theatrical performances in addition to the spacious ballroom and a very passable theatre.

Even though the appearance of the building itself was not met with positive response – it was said to have been "distinguished by its ugliness" – the building was the centre of numerous social activities during its time. The Assembly Rooms were demolished in 1856 as they were in a dilapidated state.