I had a great opportunity to witness the NDP combined rehearsal with my darling on the 30th of June 2007. This year round, it is to be showcased to lucky Singaporeans at the newly constructed stage area in Marina Bay. Singapore is wonderfully efficient. What we want, we get. Or rather, what the government wants, it gets. :P
Politics aside, first impressions, I felt that the spectator stands were "small and compact" as compared to the oval-shaped stadium design that we all lovingly know as the Kallang Stadium. Atlas, it will be torn down to make way for a modernized stadium for world class events and functions. Big dreams, Singapore has. Maybe the Olympics or the World Cup in Kallang?
Back to NDP, the MCees who were present that the rehearsal introduced to us a new identity for us to be familiar with. Instead of the Kallang wave, we now have the Marina wave. Essentially, it involves the thousands of people there to...... wait...... not stand up and do a body wave, but be demure ladies and gentlemen and remain in their seats while gracefully making a wave action with your arms and hands. C'mon Singaporeans, what does it take for you to participate? Is it sooooo very paiseh to make yourself look the fool? Believe me, ditch that mentality and see how much fun you will experience for yourself.
The rehearsal was basically, a rehearsal. They didn't seem to have the full attendance of participants on that day so instead, they were represented with sign boards instead. The audience laughed heartily at such a sight. Kinda enjoyable, really.
As the rehearsal wore on, we had the usual spectacles. The red lions making their jumps, twice...... the Singapore flag fly-past...F16 after-burners.. plus a few new additions. Commandos rappelling off the Shears bridge, the Chinook deploying troops into the Marina Bay water front right in front of Esplanade, Apaches circling the water front with the city skyline in the background and all of its grandeur. And for the first time, the Naval has a chance to showcase their superiority. No, a submarine didn't surface nor did a warship berth in the area. Police speedboats and Naval counter-terrorist warships did their stuff to the amazement of the audience. All in all, a supreme show of power and grace from our beloved SAF.
Well, what can I say, this year's NDP will definitely live up to the expectations of the people and Singapore. One thing's for sure, I'll be back for the fireworks display. Rehearsal only, can't have fireworks right?
And now the pictures, as always!
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