Chingay: Singapore's Biggest Display of Multiculturalism
By: Megan Beth Simon
[This hard news story was used as an industry competition piece for Chingay 2019]
On Friday, Feb 15, 2019, a myriad of bright lights and sounds will mark the beginning of the 47th annual Chingay parade, Singapore’s biggest display of multiculturalism this year according to the official website. The Formula 1 (F1) pit is expected to be filled with people of all different cultures and background, both witnessing and being a part of this event.
DIFFERENT CULTURES TOGETHER AS ONE: The performers from Saint Margaret’s Primary School (middle row), Muslim Youth Forum x Dian Dancers (far right) and the Darma Muneeswaran Temple dancers (front row) performing together as one during the finale of Chingay 2019. (PHOTO: CHOW WEN XIN LIZ)
Spectators can expect to see many different local and international acts accompanied by elaborate floats with the theme “Dreams Funtasia (Bicentennial Edition)”. The floats are all elaborately decorated to represent the many different cultures that are available in our multicultural city. This year’s parade commemorates Singapore’s bicentennial with performances representing our rich history and what our nation can achieve in the future.
Ms Shizuka Misaka, 39, the assistant choreographer for the Japanese Association felt that Chingay was doing a good job at bringing people of different cultures together. She said: “It is a very good opportunity for us to see all the different countries and cultures from here. I think this is a good opportunity for us to see our own culture, otherwise, we won’t notice it.”
It seemed that she was not the only one that felt that way. Aside from Ms Shizuka, there were many others that expressed a similar sentiment. Amongst the many, Miss Anna Lim, 17, a Food and Beverage (F&B) volunteer from Eunoia Junior College said: “Chingay really enables people of all backgrounds, various cultures to come together and really showcase this vibrant arts scene in Singapore.” She added: “Chingay would be something that showcases the vibrant arts scene in Singapore and allows people of all backgrounds to connect.”
Not only does Chingay allow people to witness and experience the culture of others, but it also allows participants to showcase their respective cultures. Mr Fabrizio Righi, 51, Manager of FAB Italia said: “For me, it’s a good chance to bring on our Italian Culture.” He added: “Since we are far from home it’s a good chance to rejoin and find such a big family here in Singapore. Such a big spirit of multicultural integration.”
On being able to show her culture, Miss Lim also said: “Chingay really enables people of all backgrounds and various cultures to come together and really showcase the vibrant cultures in Singapore.”