The two-day Chingay Parade kicked off on Friday (Feb 27) evening, featuring a circular multi-tier stage for the first time.
This year’s theme, Wish, brings together over 3,000 performers in a 90-minute show.
Half of the eight-act performance is inspired by ethnic festivals of Chinese New Year, Christmas, Deepavali and Hari Raya, highlighting the common values and celebratory spirit that unite racial communities, said the People’s Association.
From a sequence inspired by lohei to a classic peacock dance, the audience is in for a treat, with a range of high-energy performances, massive floats, and dynamic choreography.
AsiaOne speaks to some Chingay Parade performers to learn about their wishes for Singapore.
Wish #1: Employment for fresh grads
Act 1 of the parade, titled Lantern of Renewal, celebrates the Chinese New Year spirit through a tale of reunion and blessings.
The segment features over 500 performers — including lion and dragon dance performers, stilt walkers, and traditional Chinese instrumentalists — in a high-energy dance inspired by lohei, reimagined with contemporary rap beats.
Michael Gabriel Madlangbayan, a 26-year-old student from the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), is part of the contingent.
Speaking to AsiaOne, Michael, a member of local dance crew STNY, said his dance instructor had invited students to join the parade.
As a first-time performer at the Chingay Parade, one reason he took part is his fear of missing out after hearing positive things about last year’s parade from his peers.
Another reason is that he is graduating this year.
“I wanted to try participating because I think by next year, I wouldn’t have the time to do this,” he said.
Decked out in a bright red costume inspired by origami, Michael told us that he is very excited to participate in the celebrations, especially for his segment.
“I enjoy the song that I’m dancing to. I think it’s a very interesting, modernised take on traditional Chinese New Year songs. It has a hip-hop vibe with a mix of traditional instruments,” he said.
Michael, who has spent many Saturdays rehearsing since December, has a bittersweet feeling as the event comes to a close.
“I’ll miss performing, making a lot of noise with the other participants, and performing our hearts out,” he said.
In line with this year’s theme, Michael wishes for all fresh graduates to be able to find employment so they can support Singapore’s economy. He also hopes everyone will stay safe and healthy.
