From 9 October to 13 December 2025, Alliance Française de Singapour invites families to step into a world of wonder and discovery at IMAGINAIRE: Of Small Memories and Greater Dreams.
This enriching exhibition offers a heartfelt journey into the rich soul of French heritage, celebrating the collective dreams and timeless magic of childhood through toys from the 20th century.
IMAGINAIRE: Of Small Memories and Greater Dreams: Experience a Magical Toy Adventure
In partnership with the MINT Museum of Toys, the French hub welcomes everyone to a captivating toy exhibition on Level 2.
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Stroll through the decades as the exhibition unfolds across three themes — Escape from Reality, Connection and Companionship, and Becoming Your Own Hero. Each section beautifully shows how toys not only entertained children, but also chronologically reflected the times, and gently shaped young minds and hearts.
Beyond Playthings: Stories Behind Every Toy
IMAGINAIRE highlights how toys are so much more than just playthings; they are keepsakes that reflect the evolving dreams, values, and hopes that shape the story of French childhood.
From mechanical inventions of the industrial age to post-war plastic icons, every era reveals how imagination, innovation, and social changes sparked new ways of play. Also, discover how marketing helped transform these treasures into gateways of fantasy and identity.
For families eager to learn more, guided tours—available in both French and English—offer a wonderful chance to discover the deeper stories behind each toy. Let curiosity lead the way and see what magic toys can be, far beyond first glance.
Start your adventure where toys inspire escapades into faraway lands, outer space, and magical circuses.
In Escape from Reality, visitors are invited to recall the wild thrill of adventure and the joy of imagining new worlds. This imaginative space represents the deep desire children have for an escape from their routines and to explore the unknown.
Fans of The Little Prince will be touched by a special display honoring the beloved character and his author’s passion for his homeland, friendship, and the art of dreaming.
Continue your journey in Connection and Companionship, where visitors explore how toys serve as tools for building friendship, empathy, community, and bridging the gap between the inner and outer world of a child.
At the heart of childhood lies the need for connection — with others, and sometimes, with imaginary friends! From the comfort of a beloved stuffie to the shared laughter of a board game, these objects remind us that play is never solitary and toys can often become trusted companions or bridges to social bonds.
Here, little ones can enjoy a cosy play corner with teepees, comfy bean bags, and games and a simple cooking set up—perfect for new friendships to blossom. This space celebrates the joy of sharing laughter and making memories together.
The final theme, “Becoming Your Own Hero,” lets children and grown-ups alike reflect on how toys inspire dreams, ambitions, and life’s big “what ifs.”
Little ones can gaze at magical “northern lights” overhead, while older kids explore how toys act as mirrors and models for socialisation, jobs, dreams and ambition.
Visitors would also learn about how pretend play helps children grow and become the heroes of their own stories—whether by saving the day, winning the race, or simply by being a friend.
More Than a Museum Visit
IMAGINAIRE is not just a trip down memory lane—it’s a loving tribute to how toys and play shape who we are as individuals and societies, from curious explorers to caring friends. Everyone is invited to reconnect with childhood memories, spark new conversations, and dream together in this heartwarming space.
Discover French Animation Magic
The excitement doesn’t end there! The exhibition launches alongside Animation Nation 2025. From 10 to 19 October, families can enjoy the magic of French animation during Animation Nation’s 20th Anniversary, with seven delightful screenings at Alliance Française.
Partnering with the Singapore Film Society, the festival features brand-new French animated films — including “A Magnificent Life” and child-friendly ones like “Songbird’s Secret,” “Maya Give Me A Title,” and “Ernest and Celestine: A Trip to Gibberitia.” Do note that films are ticketed and are shown in French with English subtitles.
Join the Celebration!
Together, IMAGINAIRE and Animation Nation invite families to experience all the creativity, storytelling, and heart of French culture—from the beloved toys of yesterday to today’s contemporary animated films. Everyone is welcome to join in the fun—whether catching a film this week or exploring the enchanting gallery before December’s end.
Enjoy a day of curiosity, connection, and imagination at Alliance Française de Singapour—a celebration sure to delight adventurers young and old!
IMAGINAIRE – OF SMALL MEMORIES AND GREATER DREAMS
Dates: 10 October – 13 December 2025
Venue: La galerie (2nd floor) @ Alliance Française de Singapour, 1 Sarkies Road, 258130
Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday: 1.00 pm – 7.30 pm | Saturday: 9.00 am – 6.00 pm
Admission: Free. Guided tours available in French and English [Book a tour here]
Film Screenings: ANIMATION NATION FESTIVAL
Dates: 10 October – 19 October 2025
Venue: Theatre (1st floor) @ Alliance Française de Singapour
Admission: Ticketed. [Check movie timings here]
