All In

Once again, the hot sun scorched down on a clear skied Saturday, and sparkled off the Marina. Although the sun was no stranger to us, for the first time this year, everyone involved with National Day ’09 came together for a combined rehearsal (CR1).

The Show and Parade segments finally got a chance to meet, and everyone got an opportunity to stomp around on the Floating Platform. Having rehearsed on marked out 2D stages during the past weeks’ rehearsals, the performers were fascinated at how grand the stage was up close, and quickly adapted to the new environment. Among these groups were the Bhaskhars’ Dancers, and SAF Grid Climbers; who maintained a high standard of performance and confidence, despite having to scale the 9-storey high grids.

However, with the new environment, the action was not merely isolated on stage. Behind the scenes, there was a large crew, making sure the rehearsal went as smoothly as possible. From the logistics men; handing out the thousands of meals, to the cue callers; timing the program down to each second.

Anyone not involved with the parade would have heard the explosive sounds of the fly past around the city, and caught a glimpse of the F-16s and Apaches if they were quick enough. The 21 gun salute was just as loud; floating out on the bay for the first time ever. We hope that no one enjoying an evening show at the Esplanade was disturbed by the firing, but if anyone was, then they should be informed that what’s coming is worth it!

While there is definitely some polishing up to do; overall, the rehearsals went better than expected. Having come together for the first time, CR1 marks the beginning of the end. The last stretch of practice – before our Nation’s Birthday – which the performers and crew are all looking forward to.

This article and its photographs have been contributed by Joshua Khoo from the NDP 09 Show Committee.