Carnival Of The Animals - Magical Extravaganza Of Earth's Creatures

Internationally acclaimed contemporary circus company Circa from Brisbane, Australia and the leading presenter of live entertainment in Asia Pacific Base Entertainment Asia present Carnival of the Animals at Sands Theatre, a blend of circus, multimedia and music. This family-friendly show magically reinvents the classic music suite by French romantic composer Camille Saint-Saëns.

Depicting creatures from land, sea and sky, Circa’s performers take children and their adults on a safari through the lives of the tortoise, the elephant, the kangaroo, the swan, the life aquatic and many other beasts of fur, feathers and fin. It is an exuberant celebration of all of earth’s creatures and the power of our bodies to express who we really are.

Created by circus visionary and Circa artistic director Yaron Lifschitz, and the Circa ensemble, Carnival of the Animals brings the joy of the animal kingdom to the stage in a sophisticated and visually stunning physical theatre extravaganza for children big and small. Circa is world-renowned for pushing artistic boundaries and creating powerful works of circus art that thrill, challenge and captivate as they constantly reimagine circus as an artform.

"It blends slapstick and melancholy, beauty and awe, and, with the help of a 129-year-old musical suite, manages to keep an audience of nearly 200 small children wide-eyed and whispering Ooh." 

-- The Sydney Morning Herald --

Written in 1886, Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals has been adored by children and adults for many generations. It is a playful and magical work of music imbued with Victorian eccentricity whose fourteen movements each explore a specific or group of animals. For this production Australian composer Quincy Grant artfully reworked and extended the original suites. On stage Circa performers are accompanied by and interact with sumptuously detailed animation created by UK-based Australian video designer Michaela French.

"I wanted the animation to have a quality of moving through the pages of a children's book but it became much more than that. When the banners unfurl from their suitcases, the stage is set and an adventure begins. There is a whole world of wonder to discover and explore, with journeys from the bottom of the ocean to outer space and a parade of animals who entertain, terrify and delight audiences of all ages."

--- Michaela French, UK-based Australian video designer ---

The 50 minute performance will run at the Sands Theatre, Marina Bay Sands, from 14 - 17 April 2022 with showtimes on 1500 hours and 1830 hours  on Thursday to Saturday, and 1100 hours and 1500 hours on Sunday. More information is available on the Marina Sands website at www.marinabaysands.com/entertainment/shows/carnival-of-the-animals.html.

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Sus Ads Video Challenge Awards 2021 - Youths Raise Awareness For Environmental Sustainability

Twelve youths who demonstrated exceptional creativity in raising awareness for environmental sustainability clinched awards at the 2021 Sus Ads Video Challenge Awards Ceremony last week. Judged on their content, originality, creativity and technical execution, a total of eight awards were given out at the Awards Ceremony graced by Mr Tan Kiat How, REACH Chairman and Minister of State for Communications and Information & National Development, and Mr Desmond Tan, Minister of State for Home Affairs & Sustainability and the Environment.

Organised by REACH in collaboration with MM2 Entertainment and AsiaOne, the inaugural Sus Ads Video Challenge called upon youths to create an original short video (60 seconds or less) on what they currently do or can do to support sustainability, to encourage others to take action. The Challenge saw a total of 80 entries from 63 individuals and 17 teams, which centred on water and food security, and illustrated how simple lifestyle changes can make a difference in saving the planet.

The awards ceremony also saw a dialogue session providing an opportunity for youths to share their views on sustainability issues. Panellists include REACH Chairman and Minister of State Tan Kiat How; Minister of State Desmond

Tan; filmmaker and actor-host Annette Lee; and environmentalist and digital creator Woo Qiyun. The discussion expounded on Singapore’s sustainability efforts as part of the Singapore Green Plan 2030, and how youths can play a larger role in the sustainability movement.

About The Winners

Amongst the winners in the Student Category is Livia Fin, an illustration design and animation student from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. Coming in first place, she used 3D modelling and animation to showcase how seemingly harmless daily activities can contribute to carbon emissions. Titled ‘Consumption and Climate Change’, her video calls upon Singaporeans to practise mindful consumption habits.

"I have seen Public Service Announcements on how one can help stop climate change. While these are important, there are just so many of these out there that can be difficult to keep track of. The video I made is similar, but I want to emphasise the importance of doing it as a team because just an individual alone cannot change the world."

--- Livia Fin ---

In the same category, Temasek Polytechnic student Muhammad Danish Fikri Bin Mohamed Fadil’s “Save Water, Save Money” won the hearts of the audience. The 60-second video, which combined elements of horror and humour, highlighted how the simple act of turning off the tap can help to save water.

"I was inspired by a television advertisement which conveyed the message of saving water in a creative way. Through my video, I hope to bring across the message that everyone has to play a part in being sustainable. There is no need to buy certain items to be sustainable. Instead, we can reflect on our daily habits and incorporate simple actions to save resources."

--- Muhammad Danish Fikri Bin Mohamed Fadil ---

In the Open Category, youths tackled a wide range of sustainability issues, including energy conservation, waste reduction and recycling. “Pass Me Forward” imagines a letter from a dress to illustrate how fashion can be sustainable, while “Learning Sustainability with Nasir” shows how our sustainable habits can help save the environment.

"I think it is great that Singapore has been pushing forward its sustainability efforts and appreciate that they are listening to youths and the public for ideas on how to move forward with these efforts. Not only that, it is heartening that the Singapore Green Plan 2030 helps provide actionable steps to combat climate change, not only for individuals but also for corporations."

--- Tan Jing Ren, “The Interview”, Open Category, 2nd place winner ---

However, it was Leo Ching Ling’s “Sound of Sustainability” that won first place in the Open Category. In a creative take on sustainability, the 20-year-old Ngee Ann Polytechnic graduate used sound with aesthetically pleasing visuals to demonstrate the simple actions one can take to protect the earth.

"Singapore is making commendable efforts by using resources to raise awareness and encourage people to contribute to a greener city. I am grateful for platforms such as the Sus Ads Video Challenge where one can showcase creativity and establish a meaningful point, too."

--- Leo Ching Ling ---

"We are impressed by the youths’ effort and creativity in producing these videos... I am heartened to see that many young Singaporeans are aware of the responsibility they each have in protecting the environment. By showcasing innovative yet pragmatic ways to make sustainability part of their daily lives, our youths have displayed a sense of ownership towards creating a greener and more sustainable Singapore. I hope that they will continue to champion sustainability in their communities."

--- Tan Kiat How, REACH Chairman, one of the Challenge panel judges ---

The videos from all eight winners will be aired at Cathay Cineplexes island wide. They can also be found online at www.asiaone.com/susads.

(Photo Credits for all images : REACH, Ministry of Communications and Information)

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CATS - One Special Night Of The Year

Following its triumphant season in London’s West End, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s record-breaking musical CATS comes to the Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands for a limited season from 17 December 2019.

World-renowned theatre star Joanna Ampil reprises her role as Grizabella. Joanna Ampil has performed in several West End musicals, including Miss Saigon, Jesus Christ Superstar and Avenue Q, and she played the role of Fantine in Les Misérables in London.

Joining her in the cast are Luke Fraser Yates, George Hinson, Gavin Eden, Kirsty Ingram, Elizabeth Futter, Sally Frith, Erica-Jayne Alden, Amy Whittle, Ellie Young, Holly Willock, Danielle Cato, Gabrielle Coca, Cian Hughes, Rhys Batten, Thomas Inge, Mukeni Nel, Lloyd Davies, Abigail Dever, Alexandra Wright, Elly Shaw, Liam Buckland, Lee Nicholson, and Brian O’Muiri. Resident director is Dane Quixall. Further casting to follow.

Based on T. S. Eliot’s Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats,the show is set amongst a larger-than-life junkyard playground and is alive with our favourite feline characters including Rum Tum Tugger, Mr. Mistoffelees, Macavity, Jennyanydots, Old Deuteronomy, Grizabella and Skimbleshanks.

The Jellicle Cats come out to play on one special night of the year - the night of the Jellicle Ball. One by one they tell their stories for the amusement of Old Deuteronomy, their wise and benevolent leader, who must choose one of the Cats to ascend to The Heaviside Layer and be reborn into a whole

new Jellicle life.

For more information, visit www.MarinaBaySands.com/ticketing.

About CATS The Musical

CATS, one of the longest-running shows in West End and Broadway history, received its world premiere at the New London Theatre in 1981 where it played for 21 record-breaking years and almost 9,000 performances. The ground-breaking production was the winner of the Olivier and Evening Standard Awards for Best Musical. In 1983 the Broadway production became the recipient of seven Tony awards including Best Musical, and ran for 18 years.

Since its world premiere, CATS has been presented in over 30 countries, has been translated into 15 languages and has been seen by more than 81 million people worldwide. Both the original London and Broadway cast recordings won Grammy Awards for Best Cast Album.

The magnificent musical score composed by the legendary Andrew Lloyd Webber, includes the poignant hit song ‘Memory’, which has been recorded by over 150 artists from Barbra Streisand and Johnny Mathis to Liberace and Barry Manilow.

About Base Entertainment Asia

Base Entertainment Asia is the largest presenter of live theatrical entertainment in Southeast Asia with offices in Kuala Lumpur and its regional headquarters in Singapore. It is the resident developer, producer, programmer and manager of live entertainment at Singapore’s Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands.

Till date, Base Entertainment Asia has presented The Phantom of the Opera in Malaysia and over 200 of the world’s most recognised shows of varied genres in Singapore; musicals – Disney’s Aladdin, Disney’s The Lion King, The Phantom of the Opera, Wicked, Matilda The Musical, The Sound of Music, My Fair Lady, CATS, Chicago, MAMMA MIA!, West Side Story, Annie, Evita, Kinky Boots, Jersey Boys, The Lee Kuan Yew Musical, THE SECRET (based on Jay Chou’s movie, Secret; stage magic – The Illusionists I and II, Cosentino: Anything Is Possible; circuses – Le Noir, Cirque Adrenaline, Cirque Eloize, Circus 1903; live concerts – James Blunt, Pentatonix, Michael Bolton, Bjorn Again, Cliff Richard, AR Rahman, Air Supply, Elvis Costello, The Village People and Bjorn Again, The Simon & Garfunkel Story, Bee Gees Gold, Kit Chan, Kenny G; classical concerts – The Music of John Williams, The Music of Hans Zimmer VS John Williams, 007 In Concert; ballets – Superstars of Ballet Gala, Teatro di San Carlo’s Gisell; dance – Kabuki (Ebizo, Takizawa); cabaret – Forever Crazy: Crazy Horse Paris; comedy – Laugh You Long  Time; children – Disney Live, Disney in Concert, Hi-5, The Wiggles; under the big top – Cirque du Soleil – Totem, Cavalia; corporate speaking engagements – Cesar Milan, Steve Backshall; corporate events/exhibitions – Patek Philippe Watch Art Grand Exhibition Singapore 2019.

For more information, visit:

• Website : baseentertainment.com.sg
• Facebook : www.facebook.com/BASEentertainmentAsia
• Instagram : www.instagram.com/baseasia

About David Ian Productions

David Ian Productions is a leading entertainment company based in London’s Covent Garden. Formed in 2006, DIP specialises in presenting large-scale theatrical productions in the UK, the US and internationally, and also offers a full general management service to the industry.

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What Does Hotel Del Luna’s Yeo Jin-Goo Always Eat When In Singapore?

Yesterday, Yeo Jin-Goo was in town to promote his latest show, Hotel Del Luna.

Run by a cursed CEO, Hotel Del Luna is a rusty-looking hotel that only serves dead souls. The owner Man-wol (IU) has committed a severe crime in her past life, so has been confined in the hotel for a long long time. Coincidentally, she meets an elite hotel manager Goo Chan-sung, who is the youngest vice-manager of a multinational franchise hotel company. However, due to a stroke of fate, Chan-sung ends up running the hotel and facing different mysterious stories that happened there…

(Photo Credit : tvN)

"I would like to visit Clarke Quay again, but of course, I’m open to exploring new places in Singapore, so please let me have your recommendations!”

--- Yeo Jin-Goo's comment that left the fans screaming out their recommendations ---

“In Korea, we have a saying that if you leave the food on your plate uneaten, then after you die, you might face the punishment of having to finish all the food you left behind.”

--- Yeo Jin-Goo, on why he will always finish up his favourite dish of Chilli Crab ---

"I’m not exactly afraid of ghosts or anything supernatural, but I do get frightened easily by things that appear suddenly, like bugs. (Laughs) If a really small insect popped out of nowhere, I might still jump out of fear!"

--- Yeo Jin-Goo, on his fears ---

"It’s very hard to choose as they’re both very different in nature. For dramas, you need to be very adaptable and attentive because there could be slight changes to the storyline that you have to act out on a whim. On the other hand, you get more time to dive deeper into your research for a movie role before filming begins. They each have their own charms and I wouldn’t want to choose one over the other."

--- Yeo Jin-Goo, on the difference between acting in dramas and movies ---

“The drama’s ending isn’t exactly a happy one and I remember crying so much after filming the last scene. The same went for all my co-stars.”

--- Yeo Jin-Goo, on the last scene in Hotel Del Luna ---

(Photo Credit : tvN)

He displayed his impeccable acting skills through a little game he played during the occasion, where he was given three scenarios to act out on the spot. When asked to persuade the audience to buy a luxurious yacht at triple the purchase price, a simple and sincere "please buy it" from him melted the fans' hearts and garnered multiple buyers.

Following the press conference was a cosy exclusive fan moment, where he met with 70 fans selected by tvN Asia and StarHub. They came bearing gifts and were mesmerised by his radiant smile and sincere greetings, took group photos with the dashing male lead.

Catch the 16-episode Hotel Del Luna every Tuesday and Wednesday at 2145 hours on tvN (StarHub  824 & Singtel TV 518/619).

About Yeo Jin-Goo

Making his debut in the entertainment industry as a child actor, Yeo Jin-Goo is undoubtedly one of the most conspicuous new generation actors. He caught much attention in various tvN productions including Hwayi: A Monster Boy (2013), Circle (2017) and The Crowded Clown (2019), and his acting has enchanted not only the drama directors but also the worldwide audience. With his superb acting skills, he has won the Most Promising Actor awarded by tvN Movies in 2017; Best Actor (TV) of the 55th Baeksang Arts Awards. In 2019, he was cast in Hong sisters’ fantasy mystery drama Hotel Del Luna alongside IU. The drama is a commercial success which consistently topped the ratings in its timeslot against other cable channels in Korea.

About tvN

The Number 1 Pay TV Channel in Korea, tvN is expanding to Asia-Pacific. Being the content trend leader, tvN provides the best general entertainment through express top-rated variety shows, record breaking hit dramas, world class music shows, trend leading lifestyle programmes, and star-studded original productions exclusively for Asian viewers. tvN is available in Asia-Pacific territories, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. tvN is owned by CJ ENM, Asia’s leading entertainment and merchandising company headquartered in Seoul, Korea.

About CJ ENM

CJ ENM is Asia’s leading entertainment and merchandising company headquartered in Seoul, Korea. As of July 1, 2018, CJ E&M has merged with CJ Group’s home shopping and e-commerce subsidiary CJ O Shopping to become CJ ENM. Its entertainment division has five main business units - broadcast, film (CJ Entertainment), music, live entertainment and animation. CJ has been contributing to promote Korean culture around the world, through the company's 'One Source, Multi-Content' strategy. As a trend leader in Asia, it has produced and distributed various popular content, some of which include Asia’s largest music awards Mnet Asian Music Awards (MAMA), leading Hallyu convention KCON, Tony Award-winning musical Kinky Boots, record-breaking box office hits Roaring Currents, Ode to My Father and Veteran, along with sought-after television series such as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God, Youn's Kitchen, Super Star K, Show Me the Money and Produce 101. For more information, please visit: www.cjenm.com.

(Photo Credit : tvN)

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Aladdin - A Musical Of Enchanting Proportions

From the producer of The Lion King, the beloved story of Aladdin comes to life in this spectacular new musical.

Featuring all the songs from the classic Academy award winning film, including “Friend Like Me”, “A Whole New World” and “Arabian Nights”, prepare to experience the unmissable theatrical magic that is Aladdin.

(Photo Credit : Disney Theatrical Productions)

This spectacular production boasts of a staggering 337 glittering costumes featuring 1225 different fabrics, 712 bead styles and almost 500,000 Swarovski crystals. To create the breathtaking scenery, 40 tonnes of exotic sets, and 60 tonnes of automation and staging was shipped here in 30 container loads to create the mythical city of Agrabah with its bustling marketplace, the lush palace of the Sultan, and the legendary glittering Cave of Wonders.

Boasting of a talented cast of 34, Gareth Jacobs play the enigmatic and energetic genie, Graeme Isaako charms as the handsome Aladdin, with Shubshri Kandiah charming as the enchanting Jasmine.

(Photo Credit : Disney Theatrical Productions)

Celebrities abound on Opening Night...

Merlion Wayfarer's favourite scenes were the Cave of Wonders, where 120 pieces of gold were used to create the shimmering golden effect...

(Photo Credit : Disney Theatrical Productions)

... and the Flying Carpet where Aladdin charms Princess Jasmine through the starlit night across the dessert...

(Photo Credit : Disney Theatrical Productions)

Now playing until September 1 only. Catch it on its only stop in Asia for this tour!

(Photo Credit : Disney Theatrical Productions)

Popular with both the young and the old. Come early to secure your favourite seats...

Tickets are available through Marina Bay Sands Entertainment Ticketing or SISTIC.

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Launch Of Experience And Xposure Programme (EXP2019) For ESports

In line with its mission to nurture youths and to provide them with the right opportunities to develop, grow and achieve their dreams, *SCAPE officially launched an esports Experience and Xposure Programme (EXP2019) recently for Singapore youths aged 15 to 25 years old.

"EXP2019 is the first-of-its-kind in Singapore where youths can learn about esports through a holistic programme. In addition to game skills, youths can also learn about the many exciting possibilities within the industry and talented youths will be provided with green lane access to our industry partners to pursue their passion in esports. Importantly, we aim to inculcate the right values and behaviours and mitigate any negative aspects of this popular youth interest such as cyber-bullying and gaming addiction."

--- Mr David Chua, *SCAPE Chairman ---

Designed with the help of industry professionals, EXP2019 offers specially-curated 3 day, 2 nights esports camps during the upcoming June school vacation that is centred on 3 focus titles - Mobile Legends Bang Bang (17 to 19 June), FIFA (24 to 26 June) and League of Legends (27 to 29 June). Camp activities include introduction to the whole spectrum of the esports landscape, esports challenges, team bonding exercises and outdoor learning that will foster social mixing and character development.

From July to December, there will be a total of 10 workshops for each of the 3 focus titles, and 10 workshops on online live streaming and commentary. Workshop modules range from in-game skills and tactics, to mental management, cyber-wellness, content creation, engaging online audiences and much more. Driving EXP2019 will be coaches and pro gamers from official program partner, Resurgence, Singapore’s most successful esports organization.

"EXP2019 is about providing aspirants and interested youths with an opportunity to be exposed to and to experience esports. Our goal is to cultivate responsible behaviours, while sharing with them our game insights and industry knowledge. I look forward to sharing my personal experiences and to advise these youths, based on the path I’ve taken so that they can make more informed decisions."

--- Samuel "Sequinox" Chan, former Raffles Institution student turned full-time professional gamer ---

In the months to come, *SCAPEesports will also be conducting school visits island-wide to educate youths about esports and EXP2019. Esports enthusiasts can also look forward to more community rallies, viewing parties and other events at *SCAPE.

"By learning and bonding with like-minded enthusiasts at *SCAPE, attendees can also play a future role in expanding the esports community at large and communities is the foundation for a strong esports ecosystem in Singapore."

--- Professional FIFA player Chiang "Hibidi" Wen Jun ---

For more information and registration details, visit www.scape.sg/scapeesports/EXP2019.

ABOUT *SCAPE

*SCAPE Co. Ltd is a non-profit organisation that supports youth, talent and leadership development. The organisation aims to motivate and empower youths to realise their potential, and seeks to be the home of enterprising youths committed to creating their own future. It was set up in 2007 in response to a call for more spaces for youth social, recreational, sporting, and community activities, and to showcase their talents.

*SCAPE offers a series of programmes for youths to learn new skills, harness their creativity, and create something impactful while cultivating an enterprising spirit. The 5 clusters are entrepreneurship, music, dance, media and esports.

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