I was amazed by my ability to learn complex choreography and maintain the stamina needed for the performance, proving that perseverance knows no age limits.
I started Chingay performance at Orchard Road in the 80s, when the Chingay parade was held in the morning.
A poetic tribute to this wonderful, magical cultural heritage
What’s heart-warming is how all are ultimately united in a common goal – to bring the joy of the festivities to the crowd, the enjoyment of friendships across all ages, ethnicity or even nationalities, and the striving for excellence
Firecrackers are a thing of the past, we now watch Chingay parades on TV.
Lanterns glowed as dancers spun past, drums beating like a heartbeat. Bright floats showed lions, phoenixes and flowers mixed with neon lights and familiar music.
In 2025, I had the honour of becoming one of the participants. This experience allowed me to see Chingay beyond the spectacle and gain a deeper appreciation of the hardwork, commitment and teamwork that take place behind the scenes
Intangible heritage is not only about preserving traditions, but about keeping them alive through people…. Chingay stands as a powerful symbol of cultural resilience, inclusivity and shared national identity