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A spirit that shines

Article provided courtesy of The Straits Times

Performers rejoicing as fireworks lit up the night sky, bringing the three-hour extravaganza to a close.

Full-time national serviceman Shawn Khoong undoubtedly had one of the best seats in the show, albeit a slightly uncomfortable one.

He was one of two performers in the illuminated bubbles - the big plastic balloons atop a three-storey Roman pillar in the Statues Of Inspiration segment which represented Singapore's position on the global stage.

Being in a bubble took some getting used to, even though it was pretty airy. A motorised fan kept it inflated.

During his five-minute presentation, Mr Khoong had to dance theatrically to a mystical tune, throwing confetti and keeping the audience entertained. During that time, though, he had a 360-degree view of the action unfolding.

Ditching his "court jester" outfit for a fresh white singlet as soon as he got backstage yesterday, Mr Khoong, 22, said: "It was a huge adrenaline rush. We've been rehearsing for more than two months. Now that it's over, I am going to miss it."

Also shining bright last night were stars like Singapore Idol 2006 winner Hady Mirza and jazz crooner Nathan Hartono, singing for their largest audiences to date.

"In my life, at least I get one chance to perform the theme song for National Day," said Mirza, 28. "That's one more thing to tell my grandchildren!"

Illuminated giant balloons, or bay birds, take flight from the One Fullerton area towards the floating platform, kicking off the show segment.
Silat performers showcase their artistic flair and precision in a dramatic shadow play during the show segment of yesterday's parade. Close to 300 silat enthusiasts had practised since May this year to ensure they are in top form.
"Statues of Inspiration" floats make their way to the stage for their performance during the National Day Parade at Marina.
President S R Nathan waving to the 27,000 people in the stands after inspecting the 28 marching contingents on parade.
Confident about Singapore's future
"Happy National Day. Forty-three. Not a very long history of our people, but it has been long enough to show some potential of what we can achieve. If we can make the next 43 years the way we have done in the first 43, I think we have got a future. I am very confident about the next five to 10 years. Conditions are favourable and there is a team in charge which will see it through."
MINISTER MENTOR LEE KUAN YEW, on keeping the spirit of the nation shining