Sight—and—sound galore at Singapore’s biggest countdown event

SINGAPORE: Expect nothing less than a feast for the eyes and ears at this year’s Marina Bay Singapore Countdown.

This year’s countdown, the eighth edition of the event, will feature more fringe activities around the waterfront to keep party—goers thoroughly entertained.

A kaleidoscope of colours wowed the crowds at last year’s countdown and organisers of the event, Esplanade — Theatres on the Bay and the Urban Redevelopment Authority, promise an equally spectacular sight to ring in 2013.

The eight—minute firework display this year will be accompanied by a musical score influenced by South—East Asian music.

The display, themed Dari Tanah ini or "From This Earth", features a musical score composed by Cultural Medallion winner and composer Iskandar Ismail.

"The idea is to inspire the public, when they view the firework display together with the music, to appreciate our humble beginnings and to look back at what we’ve achieved as a nation," said Jason Chen, acting deputy director of place management at the Urban Redevelopment Authority.

With the opening of Gardens by the Bay, organisers are expecting more visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the fireworks. About 300,000 people attended the countdown last year.

Fringe events around the waterfront, which are mostly free—of—charge, will start from 5pm. Visitors will be treated to performances, film screenings, and even a LED kite display.

The fringe events will be located at Marina Bay Waterfront Promenade, The Promontory, and the Esplanade Outdoor Theatre.

The countdown will also feature MediaCorp’s Celebrate 2013 show at The Float@Marina Bay. A mix of local, regional and international artists will take the stage, including Sheila Majid, the Jersey Boys, and M.I.B. Tickets are available from Sistic.

Some 1,700 security personnel will be deployed to make sure the event runs smoothly. These include police officers, auxiliary police and security staff.

"In the last few years, we have noted the sheer popularity of this event, being Singapore’s biggest countdown event. (Given) the 300,000 people who gather at the bay, it is a challenge, especially when it comes to dispersal at the end of the event," said Mr Chen.

Police have said that bags and other personal items may be subjected to checks. To prevent overcrowding, auxiliary police officers will regulate the number of people entering areas within the vicinity of Marina Bay. Should overcrowding occur, trains may bypass stations to alleviate congestion.

An app detailing activities in the Marina Bay area is also available for download.

— CNA/jc