January 31 2009 -- Chingay Wonderland
Today is the day! Chingay extravaganza!
For those who missed out this year’s Chingay, which was touted as ‘Asia’s grandest street and floats parade’, fret not. I have captured as much goodness as possible to share with you.
The long awaited annual high-octane floats and fun event started at 8pm.When I arrived at St Andrew’s Road at 7pm, glittering floats shone so brightly at night. The performers, donned in their fanciful costumes, were already getting in line along the road to prepare for their showcase.
Immediately, I took out my camera and got it clicking ….
Performers waiting for their ‘Show Time’
This was my very first time watching Chingay LIVE, and being able to sit two rows from the performing area and get the best view, I was really very happy.
With ‘Wonderland’ as the theme, audiences were treated to a mix of fantasy, magic and awesome performances that promised to be a camera-clicking visual.
For those reading my blog, you are in for a treat.
A photo can say a thousand words but I believe a video can do even better, so I have posted a lot of videos of this year’s festive performance.
Those who have been to Chingay Wonderland, I hope they can bring back some good old memories and for those who have missed it, I hope to share my wonderful experience with you.
Firecrackers during Chinese New Year in Singapore -- that’s one of the highlights for the opening of Chingay Wonderland.
Video: Celebrate Chingay Wonderland’s opening with a BANG
For the opening act for Chingay Wonderland, President S.R. Nathan and other VIPs made their way from the starting point to the first performing area onboard the Uniquely Singapore Float, Majestic Lion, accompanied by dancers in their colourful costumes.
Video: Here come the Golden Lion and the dragons
Making their debut appearances at Chingay were the 32 elegant phoenixes presented by Teng Wei Athletic Sports Association.
Rise of the Phoenixes
Be awed by the 3 dragon heads float, a parade float and engineering marvel from the Nanyang Technological University (NTU).One of the tallest and most automated floats to appear in a Chingay parade, this masterpiece impressed with its three animated fire-spewing dragons crossing a sea of illuminated waves performing alongside with live dancers.
Tallest float – Draconika NTU (9 metres)
As part of Chingay grandest opening act, the highly acclaimed Tong Liang Fire Dragon troupe from China had put up a spectacular performance completed with fiery sparks from melted iron at 1300 degree Celsius and dancing fire dragons skillfully held by bare-bodied handlers.
Watch the Fire Dragons at Chingay
‘Wonderland of Dreams ’ was a showcase of dreams presented by the Tote Board Family. In the Family‘s tradition of giving, they had performers throwing red packets filled with sweets,as a surprise to the audience. With many hands reaching out to get one of the red packets, I was very lucky to have one packet land right on my lap ..heehee.
Watch the Wonderland of Dreams
Here are the other exciting videos and snapshots to bedazzle you
Video: International performances
Inaugural CDC (Community Development Council) Wearable Art Public Contingent
Eurasiana
Watch Noah's Ark and a special dance
Elvaria by Eusoff Hall- NUS
Watch Insects and Magic at Chingay
As part of the grand finale, Master Magician Lawrence Khong had set himself on fire while attempting ‘The Burning Man’ act, a daring magical escape never before attempted in Asia.
Click here to watch: A Burning Hot Show
Video: So what happened to Magician Lawrence ?
As you read on, you must be wondering is there a firework display at the end of the main show? Yes! The firework display was simply beautiful and took my breath away.
Watch the firework display here.
The end of one party, brought the start of another party, City Alive!, Singapore’s biggest and funkiest street dance party. With exclusive showcases from DJ Sassy Pandez (United Kingdom) ,DJ Sarasa ( Japan ) and DJ KoFlow ( Singapore) on a Hippo Bus and also Street Dance Battle, Funkamania. Party-goers were entertained to a night of non-stop pop music, impressive moves by dancers and adrenaline rush.
Me and Mr Saptarshi Banerjee, a reporter from India
Catch a glimpse of City Alive !
Karl, me and Kenneth enjoying ourselves at City Alive !
Video : My interview with Mr John Ong from Tian Loong Kong Stilt Walking Group
My experience as a Chingay Stomp Blogger has been an enriching and fantastic one. Having attended rehearsals and briefing to know more about Chingay Wonderland, and getting up-close-and-personal with local and international performers. I have learnt that Chingay is not just a multi-faceted show bringing together people of all races, professional and community artistes, students, volunteers and more, it’s a party for everyone!
I would like to take this opportunity to express my thanks and appreciation to People’s Association and STOMP for giving me this once-in-a-lifetime experience as a Chingay Stomp Blogger. It has made my life more interesting.
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