NDP 2016 to thrill audience with futuristic aerial and 3D shows
From aerial performers to 3D animation, the highlights of this year’s National Day Parade (NDP) at the National Stadium befit the theme “Building Our Singapore of Tomorrow”.
Futuristic elements play a big part in three of the six acts at the NDP next month. In one act, eight unmanned systems comprising drones that are tethered to unmanned ground vehicles will complement a dance item performed by 720 students and professional dancers.
Performance of the act entitled “Ingenuity” at NDP 2016
Another act will feature real-time tracking technology and 3D images that will be projected on a large prop made up of Singapore’s iconic buildings.
Traditional crowd pleasers, such as the aerial performance by the Red Lions and the armoured mobile column, will be missing in this year’s NDP.
Chairman of the show committee, Senior Lieutenant Colonel Jason See, said that the planning for the NDP has to take into account the enclosed environment of the National Stadium.
While technology will feature prominently at the NDP, the show will also look back to Singapore’s eventful history and legends.
The NDP will kick off with the story of the legendary figure of “Badang and the Singapore Stone”, performed by groups such as the Singapore Silat Federation and Singapore Armed Forces, to represent the strength and resilience of the nation as it weathers challenges throughout history.
“Even as we bring in all these new elements, we want to celebrate our past, our present, our values and love for Singapore. I think those remain constant, regardless of race and language,” said Senior Lt Col See.
To highlight the importance of an inclusive and caring Singapore, the show will feature a performance by over 150 special needs participants from seven voluntary welfare organisations, who will hand sign to the classic song “What a Wonderful World”.
“This experience is really good for me because it gives me an opportunity to showcase the beauty of sign language through song signing. As Singapore gears towards a more inclusive society, we people with special needs can show our abilities,” said Neoh Yew Kim, 22, a sign-language instructor, who will lead the performance.
For the first time ever, indoor fireworks will be showcased in an NDP along with the outdoor fireworks, laser and lighting projections to bring the show to a rousing finale.
