Gaurav Kripalani

Gaurav Kripalani is artistic director of the Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT). The Calcutta-born creative is an instantly recognisable face on the local arts stage, having presented and produced over 150 productions.

More than three decades in theatre have cemented Gaurav Kripalani’s place as one of Singapore’s most influential cultural figures. Thinking back on the early days of his time at Singapore Repertory Theatre (SRT), when there were just three staff members, he recalls: “When we first started SRT, there were only three of us. We’d sit in a bar, order martinis and dream up shows.” Today, SRT has its own venue, a full‑time team of 30 and seasons planned three years ahead. Despite the growth, Kripalani remains grounded in what matters most: “If I had to step away tomorrow, what I’d carry with me are the relationships.”

Just as his leadership style has matured with time, so, too, has his approach to personal style. “I’ve always been very conservative in my style,” he shares. “When I first started [in the industry], I used to love wearing ties. I was probably one of the only people in theatre who did that.” Dressing sharply gave him gravitas, especially when pitching to sponsors. “As I got older, my wardrobe choices have become more relaxed,” he admits. “I wear black jeans to work now. Ten years ago, I’d never have done that.” Tailored jackets—some custom, others by Hugo Boss and Armani—remain a staple, but these days, he often teams them with laid‑back pieces and breathable travel basics. “I’m slowly becoming more adventurous at my age,” he says. “I want to have fun with what’s right for my vintage.”

Kripalani has been involved with a diverse range of theatrical works from original Singaporean productions to stage classics. These include popular local musicals such as A Twist of Fate and Forbidden City: Portrait of an Empress as well as various Shakespeare in the Park productions, including The Tempest, Romeo and Juliet, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. The SRT also put on The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged), a theatrical mash‑up involving 37 plays acted by three thespians in 97 minutes, in the fourth quarter of 2021.