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8Lion King

Blush

Aladdin

NTU Symphonic Band Last Word

Wicked

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Editor’s NoteDear Readers,

First of all, a warm welcome to all freshmen and let us take a moment to revel in the irony that as you’re reading this, this semester has already drawn near to a close. Time seems to pass by faster as we settle into our routines, doesn’t it? As such, the management of Art Jam magazine has changed hands as it does annually, passing down from the capable pair of my predecessor Victor Tan’s onto that of mine. No doubt most of us are busy mugging away for the upcoming exams, thus, besides featuring the recent events that made a splash in CAC (Cultural Activities Club) and the local arts scene, we are pleased to present to you a variety of previews of events yet to come alongside our regular features. This way, you will have an idea of what to look forward to during the holidays!

In this issue, we bring to you interviews with Hady Mirzal and Sylvia Rantonel on their theatrical debut in Aladdin, a review of the much lauded Lion King musical as well as interviews with members of the cast of Wicked. As the holidays dawn, the local arts scene looks set to get heated up with the much anticipated debut of Wicked in Singapore and many other events that will no doubt add to the holiday cheer. Good luck with your exams and I hope you are also anticipating the holidays that come after!

Warmest Regards,

JoshuaEditor-In-Chief

Editor-In-ChiefJoshua Wang

EditorArjun Kudva

DesignerXpress Print Pte Ltd

PrinterXpress Print Pte LtdTel: 6880 2881

WritersKoh Hui FangRegina GiamNg Kai XinShreya GopiGloria LimTricia Ann SimJin Chuqing

PhotographersMervyn ChuaDerrick SayChen ChunyangRounak Mehta

Issue 27MICA (P) 157/10/2011This is a Publication of Nanyang Technological University Cultural Activities Club.To advertise with us or list your events in ART JAM, email us at cac_publication@ntu.edu.sgDownload the softcopy of ARTJAM at www.ntucac.com/ARTJAM

Art Jam can be found in:All Junior Colleges | All Polytechnics | NTU | NUS | SMU | SIM | Esplanade | Esplanade Library | MICA – ARTriumNational Youth Council (*scape) | National Museum | DBS Arts Centre (SRT) | Sirus Art | Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts

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Editor’s Note ContentsCAC Press 04

Lion King 06

Wicked 08

Aladdin 10

Blush 12

Impresario 13

Perspective Film Festival 15

Chingay 2012 17

NTU Symphonic Band 19

Music Reviews 22

Event Listings 23

Last Word 25

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This semester was kick started on July 25th 2011 by the much anticipated CAC (Cultural Activities Club) Freshman Orientation Camp 2011. Named

“Ingenium”, the Orientation Camp was by all means a great success, with lasting friendships being forged and freshmen getting a better idea of what campus life is like. Ingenium featured four orientation groups, namely “Urley, Nevin, Noxa, Ioux, Moritz, Irvard, Ebaum and Geiter“ and bonded freshmen together regardless of which schools they hailed from through interactive games and friendly competition. It was a time of fun, laughter and a time to remember. From running around under the unforgiving heat of the

sun in the “Amazing race” segment of the camp to the buffet dinner at Hotel Re!, all freshmen were treated to an awesome experience that will be hard to forget.

The Orientation Camp concluded on 30th July on a high note, with the Freshmen Pageant Bash right around the corner. Held at Velvet Underground on September 8th 2011, the Las Vegas themed Bash was a dazzle of lights, beautiful people and drinks for all. The programme consisted of the proverbial catwalk, followed by a dance number as well as a candid Question and Answer section that saw at least one contestant blush. The night was concluded

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by the crowning of the new King and Queen of the CAC Freshmen Pageant Bash, Viva Las Vegas 2011.

The CAC Members’ night came next, held in the function hall of Hall 15 on October 13th 2011. With a theme of “Balik Kampung”, it saw members dress up in fashionably vintage get-ups, such as the cheeky singlet, shorts and slippers combination as well as more traditional costumes. Members were kept entertained by performances from Wushu, Dance Sport Academy, Salsa En Sync and Break dance and were treated to delicious food that was kept in sync with the theme of the night. There were

games and prizes to be won and it was a jolly good time for all who were present.

In the next semester, things look to get even more exciting with Impresario, our nation-wide talent competition set to start off after preliminary auditions. In addition to that, you can look forward to Drumzout, Chingay 2012 and many other events sure to tickle your fancy!

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By Tricia Ann Sim

I remember being transported back to my childhood as Lion King opened with an absolutely breathtaking musical number,

starring Rafiki, played by Tsidii Le Loka, singing “Circle of Life”. One can only marvel at the exotic procession of animals before your eyes as all animals of Pride Rock gather to pay homage to its leonine ruler. It was magical to witness the primal paradise: the giraffes and the elephants and the hippopotamuses and all those birds in balletic flight, creatures of air and light and I dare even say, with a touch of divinity.

Right from the beginning, creative costumes and versatile prop designs were key to the musical’s success. The musical featured two main stage sets: a stylized circular spiral staircase that twists out of the stage as the show opens, with an

The old and majestic tale of lion king, probably familiar to all the 1990s kids out there- comes alive on Broadway

ability to perform multiple roles for later scenes (Pride Rock) and a twisting series of steps made of bones, giving it a very skeletal look (Elephant Graveyard). We see Mufasa in his place of dignity on Pride Rock as the show opens and Scar’s crass appearance in the exact same position in the Elephant Graveyard, effectively displaying antithesis.

The storyline of the musical follows very closely to the plot of the original animated film. Most of the dialogue remains the same, with a couple of new scenes added to allow set changes and also to maintain flow. One of the more memorable additions includes a short little scene which revolves around a novel song, “The Madness of King Scar”. Scar laments the fact that despite being in power, none of his pride adores him and believes that his solution lies in finding a queen for himself. Interestingly and perhaps fittingly

ability to perform multiple roles for later scenes (Pride Rock) and a twisting series of steps made of bones, giving it a very skeletal look (Elephant Graveyard). We see Mufasa in his place of dignity

crass appearance in the exact same position in the Elephant Graveyard, effectively displaying

The storyline of the musical follows very closely to the plot of the original animated film. Most of the dialogue remains the same, with a couple of new scenes added to allow set changes and also to maintain flow. One of the more memorable

revolves around a novel song, “The Madness of King Scar”. Scar laments the fact that despite being in power, none of his pride adores him and believes that his solution lies in finding a queen for himself. Interestingly and perhaps fittingly

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enough, the next character to enter the set is Nala and Scar seizes his chance to woo the young lioness. The scene ends with Nala running away from Scar.

Throughout the show’s 2 hours and 40 minutes (as against the 75-minute animated film), there were plenty of instances of enthralling beauty and scenic ingenuity, realized through beauty and scenic ingenuity, realized through

techniques ranging from shadow puppetry to Bunraku. Certainly, nowhere before on Broadway has a stampede of wildebeests or a herd of veldt-skimming gazelles been rendered with such eye-popping conviction.

Due to overwhelming demand, The Lion King musical was hailed as the most successful musical in Singapore, with a grand total of 230 shows since March.

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By Regina Giam and Ng Kai Xin

Popular Broadway musical, Wicked, will be coming to Singapore this December! They were recently in town to promote the musical and Art Jam

had the honour of sitting down with Suzie Mathers and Patrice Tipoki of the Wicked cast. Suzie plays the role of Glinda, the good witch, and while Patrice will not be performing as Elphaba in the coming show, she had played Elphaba in the Australian tour.

So what is the cast doing now? Are you all rehearsing? Suzie: The cast that is coming is the Australian tour cast. We finished up in Perth on Sunday, so we now have a little bit of a holiday, which is nice. And then we’ll start rehearsals in November again - a month before we get here for the opening.

What’s a typical day like when the season starts? Suzie: Once we are up and running and rehearsed, a typical day is whatever I want to do until 6 o’clock before the show starts. We have understudies for both the ensemble and the principle roles. Twice a week they’ll do a 4-hour rehearsal just to make sure everything’s fresh and they’ll run the show with them, in the lead roles as opposed to the principles. That way if we’re sick or if we take a day off for any reason, they’re ready to step up and the show is as good as it is.

Do you have to take care of your voice during the season? Suzie: Yeah, definitely. I tend to avoid dairy products as much as possible when I’m singing, just to make sure there’s nothing wrong with the cords. But it’s going to be great in Singapore. We were saying that the humidity for singers is great, so it’ll be nice to stay outside for a while. Not so much of the air-conditioning though.

How do you feel about getting the lead roles in one of the most popular musical in the world? Suzie: Glinda and Elphaba are two huge

female roles and there are no roles like them in the music theatre industry at the moment. So to actually be getting one of those roles on my resume is amazing. It’s very exciting. It’s going to be a lot of pressure and it’s such a huge musical. We’ve got the American Broadway directors coming to direct us. It’ll be nice to get their advice.

What attracts you to the role of Glinda and how have you been preparing yourself for it? Suzie: Vocally it’s quite a demanding role, she starts in a soprano range then has to do a pop belt in the middle and sing a duet with Elphaba at the end which is quite low in her range. So it’s great as a challenge for a singer to be able to run through the motions to sing a little bit of opera and pop and stuff in the show and she’s a really fun bubbly character: someone whom I can really relate to, when she goes on such a journey in the show. She’s the kind of person that has everything she wants. She’s popular but she doesn’t have to try to be popular; she just is popular. And yeah, she’s just a really fun loving character but in the end she learns a lot about herself and about life that it’s not always about popularity.

What are some of the challenges that you’ve come across taking on this role? Suzie: I suppose making the role my own in a way, not to look at people like Kristen Chenoweth who are so famous for creating the role. Trying to put your own flavour in it and making it really truthful to yourself is a challenge because you know - how long is the show, 8 years now? - there have been so many Glindas and Elphabas around the world and its quite hard to shake things that you saw them do and do your own and keep the truth in the role. That’s a big challenge. Also the stamina, [to do] 8 shows a week, having to be able to give the same fresh high energy performance that you do the night before. That’ll be a really big challenge.

Do you see yourselves in your characters? Do you identify with them? Patrice: For Elphaba, she’s quite an outcast. She’s got green skin and she has these

powers that she doesn’t understand or know how to use. So I think we can all relate in a certain way to having been rejected at some stage in our lives, you know. She doesn’t have friends to begin with.

Suzie: With Glinda, I can really identify with her overly popular, pink side of things (laughs). But she learns a lot during the show. She learns a lot about love and friendship and that life isn’t as easy as it seems. She thinks she can get whatever she wants by putting on a pretty face and wearing nice clothes and being the most popular girl, but the boy that she is in love with, is in love with someone else that is completely different to her. And so she learns lessons. She’s also a very ambitious character. She tends to put that before anything and she wants to be a leader, and I suppose in a way a political figure, which she turns out to be in the end. So I suppose I can relate to that, being ambitious and wanting things for your career, wanting to be a leading lady at some point.

What helps you get into character? Like for example, Elphaba’s green skin. Patrice: Yeah, for me, that definitely helps. You can try all you want to look and feel different in rehearsal room but as soon as you get painted green, you automatically get into character.

Suzie: Yeah, it’s same with the bubble dress that i wear at the beginning. It’s 25 kilos! It’s very heavy, but it’s not too bad actually. But the minute that goes on, you can’t help but feel like a princess because everybody else is in these big winter coats and hats and gloves and you’ve got a crown and a wand and arrive in a bubble. You can’t help but feel regal. So that really helps in getting into character at the beginning.

How do you get the green skin on? Is it a paste? Patrice: It’s a makeup. It’s made by MAC makeup and they have a special pancake that we use as well as all the different eye-shadows and the different things to contour the face, so that you don’t look just like a

Interview with

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can get a call an hour or 2 hours beforehand and you just have to prepare yourself.

Patrice: That’s what we love about it though.

Suzie: It’s a great adrenaline rush.

Patrice: To be able to do that and to keep your job interesting by playing the roles as well, being an understudy. So it’s fun.

What tips do you have for overcoming stage fright? Suzie: Being very well rehearsed. Making sure that when you get to the stage, you are not double guessing what you are about to do because when nerves get in the way, you can freeze and lose your lines. But if you are well-rehearsed then you tend to be able to get through it unscathed. And this is probably not a very good tip, but the way that I stop myself from being nervous is that I turn up at the very last second before the curtain goes up, as much as possible. So they are very often calling my name, asking me to come to stage. But I’m not very good at waiting around cause that’s when I get nervous. So they pretty much have me in there at the very last moment possible and then off they go.

Which is your favourite song in the musical? Patrice: For me, it would definitely be “Defying Gravity”. That seems to be one of the most popular songs from the show and it’s also so fun to sing. It’s at the climax of the show.

Suzie: “Popular” would definitely be my favourite. It’s so much fun. When I first started doing it, I suppose it wasn’t that fun, ‘cause it’s such a hard song. When you watch the show, you think, oh that’s really easy and she’s dancing around and having so much fun. But stamina wise, I was exhausted by the end. I would run it through once and it’s so bouncy and up in the air that I almost need to run on a treadmill and try and sing it at the same time. But once you get used to it, it becomes a lot of fun between the two girls. You come off on a high because the audience goes nuts. So it’s great!

So what can the audience expect from the musical? Patrice: A great night out. It is a really spectacular show and from my point of view, the music, I absolutely love the music, and that really can touch peoples’ hearts and go on a journey with them. But then there’s a story, a story of 2 friends, unlikely friends,

who from the very beginning hate each other.

Suzie: Complete opposites. To start with, we hate each other. But through the show, Glinda learns to see past her green skin and, you know, it’s a musical that shows that friendship knows no bounds. That no matter how different you are you can become the best of friends, and they do become the best of friends, throughout the entire show, with their ups and downs like in any relationship. So the story’s definitely a huge draw and also the costumes are spectacular. The two huge dresses that we wear on the show - Susan Hilferty the designer, has done such an amazing job.

What’s the Wickedest thing you’ve ever done? Patrice: It would probably be related to chocolate and eating too much of it. That’s about as wicked as I get.

Suzie: I’m not overly wicked also, to be honest. Mucking around on stage is probably very wicked, according to my boss. Actually, for the second last show in Perth, I painted my tooth black before I went on stage. I kept my mouth shut for most of the show, and at one part when I knew one of the leading ladies, Lucy, who played Glinda - whom I’ll be taking over the role from - when I knew that she was going to look at me at a particular point, I smiled at her and she started laughing. That’s pretty wicked i guess.

TICKETING DETAILSFor more details regarding tickets, please visit the following websitehttp://wickedthemusical.com.sg/tickets/buytickets.phpDate: 07 Dec 2011 - 29 Jan 2012 Tuesday - Friday : 7.30pm Saturday & Sunday : 1.30pm & 7.30pm Duration: Act 1: 85 min Intermission: 20 min Act 2: 60 min Interval: N/A Venue: Grand Theater at Marina Bay Sands Language: English Price: (Exclude booking fees)VIP Box - S$1000 (For 4 seats) (Includes a drink and a gift)EMERALD - S$250 (Includes a drink and a gift)A Reserve - S$165B Reserve - S$145C Reserve - S$125D Reserve - S$95E Reserve - S$55

green blob on stage. So there’s a lot of work. It takes about an hour to get it on.

Suzie: The Elphaba’s look stunning in the green makeup. Elphaba and Glinda, we cross paths a lot but a lot of the time when we are off stage, in terms of getting ready before the show and at intervals, the Elphabas are getting their makeup done and at the end of the show, they are getting their makeup taken off. We as other cast members rarely see Elphabas without that green makeup on. So when we do see them without it on, it’s like, “Woah you are not green!” You just get so used to them being green all the time because they look like their skin is green; they don’t look like they’re wearing makeup. It’s pretty amazing.

What attracted you to theatre acting in the first place, as a career? Suzie: Well, I was actually studying law of commerce at UWA. And after a year, music has always been part of my background; I’ve always sung in the choir or played an instrument, something like that. But I’ve never really thought of taking it as a career path. That was more the numbers and the law side of things. But I joined an amateur theatre club just to have a go and see what musicals were like and once I got the bug, I couldn’t let it go and so that’s why I decided to go to drama school. My parents weren’t very happy, not at all.

Will they be here for the show? Suzie: Yeah, they will be here for the opening night!

So both you(Suzie) and Patrice were understudies before. What was it like, to be called up last minute? How were the nerves? Suzie: Yeah, that’s pretty crazy. Patrice can probably tell you a story about her first time being chucked on as Elphaba.

Patrice: My first time, someone was sick. She was Jemma Rix, who is coming up to play Elphaba. She was on, but she wasn’t well. So they ended up pulling her off and throwing me on just before “Defying Gravity” - it’s one of Elphaba’s huge songs. We were both in the ensemble at that time and they had to pull me off from that, paint me green and throw me on, just in time to fly.

Suzie: Yeah, the very first show that she ever did was halfway through and for the biggest number in the entire show, which is pretty incredible and that can happen anytime. You

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Interview with Sylvia Ratonel Art Jam: Tell us how you feel about your theatrical debut as Jasmine Neo, The Little Nonya. Have you had any experience in such productions?

Sylvia: I could hardly contain my excitement when I got the part because ever since I started auditioning for roles in musicals (Spring Awakening was one of them) I was drawn into this magical world of musicals. There is something about it that is so captivating and makes me feel so alive when I play a character on stage. Post Singapore Idol, I have dabbled with hosting but never acting. However, to me acting is not very different from singing because you are telling a story when you’re singing.

Art Jam: What enticed you to audition for this role?

Sylvia: Well for one, I get to work with W!ld Rice which is a HUGE honor and secondly I have the opportunity to collaborate with Hady Mirza! The moment that I found out he was playing Aladdin; it just kind of sealed the deal for me. Also, I grew up watching Aladdin and Jasmine so it is really like the stars were aligning for me or something. (laughs)

Art Jam: You have had considerable success as an artiste in Singapore; do you see yourself diversifying into other fields such as acting in the future?

Sylvia: YES! I would love to continue doing musicals, theatre acting and my dream is to go international. The sky is the limit!

Art Jam: Tell us a little about your character, Jasmine Neo.

Sylvia: I knew exactly who I wanted to play and was instantly drawn to Jasmine’s free-spirited ways and her desire to be free and to discover new things about

the world and in the end about herself as well. She is spunky and ‘rebels’ but deep down I think she just wants to feel like she belonged somewhere and she found that when she fell for Aladdin. In many ways, I just described my whole life story right there. (laughs)

Art Jam: Lastly, if you could play any character in a production of your choice which production would it be, which character would you play and why?

Sylvia: I would love to experiment with more edgy roles like Maureen from RENT.

Art Jam: Tell us a little about what Aladdin is about.

Sylvia: Aladdin is about a boy who is an honest thief and gets into trouble as he tries to make a cushier life for his mother. In the end, Jasmine and Aladdin will cross paths and fall in love with one another as they journey together to find the lamp.

Art Jam: If you had three wishes, what would you wish for?

Sylvia: My 3 wishes - To have all my loved ones and myself to stay healthy and live a long fruitful lives- To live a cushy life into retirement- Lastly to be an international singing sensation

Interview with Hady MirzaArt Jam: You first started out as a singer and have impressive titles such as the Asian Idol under your belt, how do you feel about your theatrical debut as Aladdin?

Hady: It feels like opening a new chapter in my career! It’s a fresh challenge which I’m looking forward to very much. Being new to the theatre scene, I am grateful to be given a chance to be casted as a leading role for the Aladdin pantomime. We have been rehearsing every single day since the start of October and there is always something new to learn and it’s great because that is how life is supposed to be. Aladdin is one of my longest-running (in terms of duration) projects to date – I felt like a bottled concoction now - feelings of excitement, anxiousness and nervousness all mixed together, especially when we are just 3 weeks from the debut night! But that is the main reason why I love my job- all this adrenaline just keeps me going. Art Jam: What attracted you to the role of Aladdin and is there any way you can relate to the character that you play?

Hady: How can anyone not be attracted to Aladdin? I am sure all of us (or most of us) grew up with the story

Art Jam recently had the opportunity to interview the leads of the upcoming “Aladdin”, Hady Mirza and Sylvia Ratonel. Read on to find out what

got them into theatre and their experience working together on this upcoming pantomime.

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and it feels just wonderful to be able to re-live the fairytale as Aladdin himself and to bring and share the wonders and joy with the new generation! You know, when I was a kid, I used to fantasize about having a genie, so that all my wishes (ice-cream treats, soccer ball etc) could be fulfilled(laughs). Me and Aladdin, we have a common point – we both love our mothers very much ;)

Art Jam: Tell us a little more about your character, Aladdin.

Hady: The Aladdin in this production has been slightly adapted to fit into today’s world. A naughty and mischievous lad, Aladdin is very tech-savvy and is a street-smart guy who is always on the lookout to make a quick buck. Although he steals for a living, he does it with a pure heart, something like Robin Hood who steals from the rich and gives to the poor. I can’t reveal anymore to you. You will have to watch it for yourself and trust me it has a very, very interesting plot!

Art Jam: What helps you get into character?

Hady: Fantasizing! (laughs) To be serious I could not have managed to do it within such a short time if not for the help from the other cast members like Darius (who plays my mother in the production), who are all seasoned theatre performers – they are just excellent and not only dedicated to their work but also fun to be with. The stage sets and costumes definitely play a big part too to help me get into character.

Art Jam: Would you continue taking part in theatrical performances such as this? How different is this to performing as a singer?

Hady: I do not mind if a suitable role comes by. Theatre performance definitely widens my knowledge and helps me gain experience. Theatre is different because it is a team effort. I have a new big family (the cast) now and everybody helps one another. There are lots of discussions, ideas exchanged and all these keeps my mind on the move. Everyone is open to suggestions and that is the best thing about it.

Art Jam: Lastly, if you could play any character in a production of your choice (eg. Drew in Rock of Ages), which production would it be, which character would you play and why?

Hady: If I have a choice, I will write a brand new production based on the story of Robbie Williams since he is one of my favorite artistes. I’ve read his biography and he went through lots of trials and tribulations; experienced life’s ups and downs. From the days of TAKE THAT to becoming a solo artist, his relationship with his mother, the rifts between his group members, and how he copes with his life. IF that happens, of course I would be playing the man himself. In fact Robbie Williams is one of the artistes that inspired me to become a singer.

Art Jam: Tell us a little about what Aladdin is about. Hady: A good hearted lad called Aladdin gets roped in to help the Wizard Abba-kadab-rah steal a Magic ring together with his feisty sidekick Jasmine. However, Aladdin falls into the Wizard’s trap while Jasmine is abducted to some far-away land. I can’t tell you the ending! Catch the pantomime and find out!

ABOUT THE SHOWFirst staged at the Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel in 2004, W!LD RICE’s Aladdin gave a well-loved fairy-tale a clever local twist and charmed audiences with its side-splitting comedy, heart-warming songs and snazzy dance routines.

This year, Asian Idol Winner Hady Mirza and Singapore Idol runner-up Sylvia Ratonel will make their theatrical debuts as Aladdin and Jasmine. Helmed by director Glen Goei, this brand new production will be written by Chestnuts creator Jonathan Lim, and boasts a soundtrack of original and glee-ful mash-ups by six-time W!LD RICE panto and Dim Sum Dollies composer Elaine Chan.

Aladdin’s star-studded cast includes Karen Tan as Wizard ABBA-k’adab-rah, Darius Tan as Widow Wong Kee and Juwanda Hassim as Genie of the Lamp. It will also feature 50 young talents from the age of 4-14 as part of W!LD RICE ‘s First Stage programme.

TICKETING INFORMATION$39 – $59 7.30pm Preview 24 & 25 November 2011$44 – $64 7.30pm Tues, Wed, Thurs, Sun$49 – $69 7.30pm Fri & Sat$49 – $69 2.30pm Sat & SunPrices exclude $3 SISTIC handling feeTickets available through:SISTIC Website www.sistic.com.sgSISTIC Hotline (65) 6348 5555SISTIC Authorised Agents islandwide

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On 12th October 2011, for the first time ever, the Student Activities Centre (SAC) played host to Pan-Asian girl band Blush. The showcase, arranged by

NTU Cultural Activities Club (CAC)’s Public Affairs Committee drew a sizeable crowd, engaged by the performance from the girls of Blush. So what is Blush exactly?

Blush is an all Asian girl band, comprising of Angeli Flores from the Philippines, Victoria Chan from China, Alisha Budhrani from India, Natsuko Danjo from Japan, and Lee Ji-hae from South Korea. All were talent scouted in an ambitious project by former Asia-Pacific Walt Disney President Jon Niermann, and Grammy-winning producer Elliot Kennedy, who has previously created hits for Spice Girls, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, Take That and more. While all members are Asian, Blush is essentially still an English language group with their sights set on the world.

Blush has already performed in front of international audiences, recently hitting the stage with Snoop Dogg on Fox Network’s “So you think you can dance” as guest performers. Blush targets not only the Asian stage, but also that of the world and indeed look set to perhaps step up to be the next big thing.

Blush

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Article by: Shreya Gopi

A lustful, limbless ex-soldier, a psychological experiment on a violent delinquent, a colony’s battle for independence and the

shattering of the dream that consumerism claims to fulfill. These are just some of the defining moments of cinematic and social insight that gave the Perspectives Film Festival 2011 its theme and name – Breakthroughs in Cinema.

This annual festival, organised by students from Nanyang Technological University’s Wee Kim Wee School of Communication and Information since 2008, is the first of its kind to be run by students. Running over four days this year, from the 27th to the 30th of October, the festival was well-received, with a full house for at least half of the six screened films, and a good turnout at the very least for the other three. The screening of the films was split between The Alliance Française and Golden Village, Vivocity.

The six award-winning films – The Battle of Algiers, A Clockwork Orange, Syndromes and a Century, Czech Dream, The Blue Kite and Caterpillar, are all films that were previously banned and which were controversial at the time they were released. A Clockwork Orange, moreover, was previously banned in Singapore. The selection of the films, however, reveals the careful planning that is integral to such festivals, as the films address different social, political and personal issues such as the tension between coloniser and colonised, the way politics can change the dynamics of a family and the growing trend of consumerism in individuals. This made for an exciting and insightful festival that would have stimulated the audience’s thoughts about problems that plague societies from all places and times.

The screening of previously banned movies might also portray the changing outlook of the society, which might label different things as taboo in different eras. In her foreword to the programme booklet, one of this year’s Festival Directors, Eternality Tan, brings up the importance and pertinence of this year’s theme by reminding us that we are “innately curious about controversies”. While this urge for the

out-of-ordinary might explain the good turnout, this thematic choice of controversy also evokes the directors’ knowledge of the power of film to portray, unflinchingly, the conditions of the time and situation.

Thus, it is evident that the festival did not merely bring issues that have to be discussed into the spotlight, but also foregrounded film as important medium for such topics. It is also interesting to note that the medium of film, through its ability to depict, forces audiences to confront themes that they are unable to face or accept. While the movies’ ratings ensure that the audience for each is appropriate, the films do not hesitate to make a commentary on society that the audience may not be used to hearing.

Ronnie Yeo, a student who was part of this festival’s Programming team, says that the theme for this year’s festival “tells us a lot about what people are afraid of, or what countries are afraid of.” A third-year student at the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Ronnie has been a part of the Perspectives Film Festival before, in 2010. When asked about his work as part of the Programming team, “it was an interesting learning experience,” he said. “I wasn’t much of a film buff unlike most of the others from the programming team, and I learnt quite a bit from them.” The scope of his duties included corresponding with distributors from other countries and negotiating the terms on which the films would be brought in for the festival. While he acknowledged that working with strict deadlines to bring the film prints in, in the middle of the semester, can be taxing, Ronnie is glad to have returned to the festival team for the second time this year.I believe that conducting such festivals helps to promote the arts scene in Singapore, by bringing film in beside more traditional art forms such as dance, theatre and poetry, and exposing more people to the nuances of the medium of film. Furthermore, as it is conducted by students, it promotes the University as well as the School of Communication and Information. This year’s festival, in particular, would have been a definite eye-opener and would have served to bring pertinent issues into discussion and perspective.

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Interviewee Name: Ong Shi Yu – Year 2 Chinese student

Interviewer: Art Jam

1. What made you decide to be part of NTU’s Chingay contingent?

Shi Yu: Firstly, it is because I love dancing! Also, I thought that this would probably act as a good workout since I do not get to exercise as regularly as I should now that I am staying hall. To be hon-est, I›ve wanted to join Chingay since my days in Junior College so I guess now I finally have the chance to be part of the performing contingent.

2. How has it been so far with balancing the trainings and school work?

 Shi Yu: Training sessions are twice a week but they are not really as strenuous as I thought that they would be. The trainers are really friendly and fun so this actually makes training quite enjoy-

able. They are not over-demanding with regards to the training attendance rate ( although we must fulfill at least 75% of overall attendance), and are quite understanding that as students we have busy schedules, especially with the exami-nations coming up right around the corner. 

3. Give us a preview of what to expect of NTU’s Chingay contingent.

Shi Yu: This year›s performance will be rather special, we will be doing a water parade so throughout the entire dance, we will be splashing and ‹playing› with water!  None of as will be dry by the end of the show haha! NTU›s contingent makes up only a small proportion of the entire performing team. We will be performing together with students from secondary schools, poly-technics, Junior Colleges and the such! You guys should expect to see a big group of fun loving people putting up a good show come February! I hope you are looking forward with anticipation and do support us! 

Centered on the theme of “Love, Care and Kindness Everywhere” Chingay 2012 takes you on a colourful celebration of love in all its guises, flowing with passion, romance, harmony and community spirit as Chingay marks its 40th years in anniversary.

Catch breathtaking performances along a 360-metres waterway with performers making a splash and creating spectacular stunts and exhilarating acts with water. Chingay 2012 promises a splashing good time for all.

TICKETING INFORMATION

GRAB YOUR TICKETS FROM 28 OCTOBER 2011 AT SISTIC!

SISTIC Hotline: (65) 6348 5555

SISTIC Authorized Agents islandwide

Internet booking at www.sistic.com.sg

Friday, 3 Feb 2012 - Parade Day 1 at 8.30pm Saturday, 4 Feb 2012 - Parade Day 2 at 8.00pm At Pit Building (Next to Singapore Flyer)

Parade/Category Cat 1 Cat 2 Cat 31 $50 $40 $252 $60 $50 $35

CHINGAY 2012 ON THE WATERWAY!

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The first thing one notices when the members of the Nanyang Technological University Symphonic Band (NTUSB) step

on stage is how at home they appear. A feeling of belonging is reflected in the faces of each and every member, alongside enthusiasm, anticipation and not a hint of nervousness. Since the band’s foundation in 1985, it has performed on various stages not just in Singapore but also beyond our borders. New members joining the band this semester have brought along with them the appropriate injection of passion and skill and it is evident that the NTUSB remains brilliant and vibrant. On Oct. 29th 2011, it took the audience in Nanyang Auditorium on an aptly named journey named A Musical Prologue.

The first score, Amazing Grace, undoubtedly struck a chord in everyone’s heart with its very first note. Amazing Grace was originally a Christian hymn written by an English poet and for years it was never really designated a uniform melody till it settled down to the tune of “New Britain”. It was described as “a marriage

A Prologue

Musicalmade in heaven”. The NTUSB’s interpretation of it was in such a way that despite the absence of accompanying vocals, it was just as inspiring with the effect of the trombones coupled with the graceful sound of the flutes. Somewhere in the crowd, I heard a girl whisper her approval. “This is beautiful”.

Nanyang Auditorium also played host as a ball room this Saturday evening when the band started playing Waltz No.2 by Dimitri Shostakovitch and Arturo Marquezswung To quote Shostakovitch, “I don’t always write music, but when I do, you get my music stuck in your head for weeks.” NTUSB’s performance was splendid and the saxophone and trombone solos was especially remarkable and thus deserving of a special mention. They depicted a sentimental and solitary scene in the waltz, which was like a gentle tap on the fragile human heart. When the piece was over, the conductor gracefully gave the stage to the saxophone and trombone soloists to whom the audience gave their loudest applause.

Article by: Jin Chuqing

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Danzon No.2 on the other hand was very different in contrast to the previous pieces. Arturo Marquez is a Mexican composer and the song was written to depict a dance style called Danzon which originated from Cuba. Compared to Waltz No.2, the beat of Danzon was much stronger and as the melody became more and more contagious, an illusion of an increasing tempo was created. Other highlights of the evening included Espana, an elaborate and humorous masterpiece by French composer Emmanuel Chabrier. Also performed were “Evening Prayer” and “Pantomime” by E.Humperdinck, a gentle and mild piece from the opera Hansel Und Gretel. Lastly, I would like to quote Mr. Takehiro Oura, the resident conductor of NTUSB on the recent disasters that have plagued our region. “I would like to pay a special tribute to those who have suffered one way or another as a result of the disasters that struck various countries such as Japan and Thailand earlier this year. I would like to appeal to all of you to make full use of what you have now and like life to the fullest. Just as the theme of “ A Musical Prologue” suggests,

every day is a prologue to the rest of our lives. We are lucky enough to be here to appreciate good music and indeed it is moments like this that we should remind ourselves to live out each day the best we can.

About the BandBy: John Joel

Since its inception, the NTUSB has been on successful tours and music exchanges to Beijing (Jun 1994), Germany (Jul 1999), Shanghai (Jul 2002) and Osaka/Kobe (Dec 2007). NTUSB’s most significant achievements to date would be those gained from participating in the 13th, 14th, 15th and 16th World Music Contest (WMC) held in Kerkrade, The Netherlands, in 1997, 2001, 2005 and 2009 respectively. This event is held every 4 years and boasts a participation of more than 14000 musicians from all over the world.

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NTUSB came away with the experience of having competed with other top bands around the world and had learnt much from the trip. An added bonus was clinching the First Prize twice in the Harmony Band Category, initially in the 2nd Division, and later in the prestigious 1st Division. Regardless of the outcome of each competition, the band’s ultimate aim was to learn from the rewarding experience and to continually work on improving our musical standard. Under the guidance of our beloved and respected Resident Conductor, Mr Takehiro Oura, the NTU Symphonic Band will continue to strive for musical excellence, and to bring to our audience the music that we play with our hearts.

Resident Conductor’s Profile By: John Joel

Mr. Takehiro Oura joined the Nanyang Technological University Symphonic Band (NTUSB) in 2005 as the resident conductor. A well-known and respected conductor in the Singapore band scene, he currently conducts the Raffles Junior College Symphonic Band, the Raffles Institution Military Band and the Raffles Girls’ School Symphonic Band, in addition to NTUSB. Born in 1962, Mr. Oura’s alma maters include Daio Elementary School, Tenri Junior High School and Tenri High School in Nara. He then

went on to Sakuyo College of Music in Okayama where he studied percussion with Mr Imamura Mitsuaki and conducting techniques with Mr Watanabe Akeo, who was a former conductor of Nippon Philharmonic Orchestra. After his graduation with a Bachelor in Music, majoring in percussion, he travelled to Paris to enroll in Ecole Normale de Musique a Paris (French Conservatory of Music, Paris) in a further quest for more musical knowledge and exposure. Mr Oura graduated with certificates in percussion and orchestra studies. During his 2 years there, Mr Oura was a member of the New National Symphonic Orchestra. On his return to Japan, Mr. Oura became the instructor of the Tenri High School Symphonic Band and Marching Band, both highly respected top school bands in Japan. His foray into the Singapore music scene has benefitted the students who have come under his tutelage. With his vast experience and enthusiasm for teaching, Mr. Takehiro Oura can only further enrich the musicianship of his students, as well as those playing in NTUSB. Under the baton of Mr. Oura, NTUSB was awarded the First Prize in the 16th World Music Contest (1st Division) in 2009 held in Kerkrade, The Netherlands. Mr. Oura is currently also the Vice-President of Wind Bands Association of Singapore (WBAS).

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Producers: Angus and Julia Stone (All tracks other than “And the Boys” produced by Brad Albetta, “Hold On” co-produced by Keiran

Kelly and “Big Jet Plane” co-produced by Govinda Doyle).Capitol Records/ EMI Music Australia

“Down The Way”, Angus and Julia Stone’s second full-length album, was released quite some time ago but I reckon it is never too late to spread the love. This record debuted at number 1 on the Australian Recording Industry Association and features 13 tracks of beautiful acoustics all self-penned and composed by the talented duo. Similar to their previous album “A Book Like This”, “Down The Way” has tinges of folk and blues elements underlying the delicate string melody

ANGUS AND JULIA STONE

“Down The Way”from start to finish. It carries a track list of calm, easy-listening music that juxtaposes Julia’s gentle vocals with Angus’ laidback and chill timbre with such brilliance. However, the album holds songs that I wouldn’t recommend for forlorn lovers and/or the crestfallen. “I’m Not Yours” and “Draw Your Swords” are particularly heartbreaking and are definitely not going to fix a smile back on the faces of the emotionally distressed.

Overall, it is a simple albeit carefully constructed genius of an artwork. Spending a nice cold rainy day drowning in The Stones’ melodiously haunting voices seem like perfect bliss to me.

Article by: Gloria Lim

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November 2011 – February 2012

November 2011• 11th November 2011, 12.30pm – 1.30pm, Piano Ensemble, Piano

Ensemble Lunchtime Concert, NIE Recital Studio

 

January 2012• 2nd- 6th January 2012, Contemporary Dance, Black Box Boot

Camp, NTU

• 7th January 2012, Contemporary Dance, BBBC Performance, HSS Black Box 

February 2012• 18th February 2012, Saturday, 7:30 pm, Chinese Orchestra, NTU

Chinese Orchestra Annual Concert - Transient Reminiscences 2012, School of the Arts (SOTA) Concert Hall

• 19th February 2012, Sunday, 7.30pm-9.30pm, Chinese Dance Club, Chinese Dance Concert 2012 - Inner Reflexion IV-俏·俏, University Cultural Centre, National University of Singapore

•

•

For more details and updates, do visit us at www.ntucac.com.

NTU Cultural Activities Clu Event Calendar

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A music event like no otherJack Daniels and the DJ Set bring you a legendary gig from Good Charlotte. They will be sharing the stage for this one night only event with talents from the region, including Urban Dub from the Philippines.

Get ready to rock the night away at the Hard Rock Coliseum at the spectacular Resorts World Sentosa with Good Charlotte as they perform some of their biggest hits. They will be sup-ported by Urban Dub, a band that have been making waves at home and abroad.

Date & Time From 18 Nov 2011, Fri To 18 Nov 2011, Fri DURATION/OPENING HOURS 1.5 hours TICKETING DETAILS Standing $98 (Early Bird – 29 Sept – 23 Oct)

Standing $108 (24 Oct – 18 Nov)VENUE The Coliseum™, Hard Rock Hotel® Singapore Resorts

World™ SentosaCONTACT PERSON / EVENT ORGANIZER Lee Min Min

Publicity Manager min@hyperecords.com

A tale of adventure and courageAfter receiving a beautifully-crafted nutcracker doll from Dr Drosselmeyer, everything changes for Clara.

In this new version set in pre-WWI, be enchanted by The Nutcracker’s spectacu-lar new sets and costumes inspired by colonial Shanghai. Watch well-loved characters who will dance their way into your hearts during this joyous Christmas season.

Date & Time From 8 Dec 2011, Thu To 11 Dec 2011, Sun DURATION/OPENING HOURS 2.5 Hours TICKETING DETAILS Ticketing Agent: SisticGroup packages and special offer

via OCBC card available, see Sistic for more information.VENUE The Esplanade Tel: (65) 6338 0611

The Wars of the RosesThe War of the Roses is over. Or so it seems... England has just endured its bloodiest civil war. The House of York is claiming vic-tory and the crowd from the House has been instrumental in the victory of the House of York over Lancaster. However, Richard feels that he has been cast aside now that he has served his purpose. Yearning for conflict and revenge, he has turned his attention to create a war within in order to fulfil his “secret close intent” – to be the King of England. Richard will lie, cheat and kill to make this ambition a reality – no one is safe. Sam Mendes (Road to Perdition and Revolutionary Road) re-turns to the stage to direct renowned American Actor and Old Vic Artistic Director, Kevin Spacey, in the title role of Richard III. This reunites them for the first time since the award-winning movie, American Beauty, for which they both won the BAFTA and Academy Awards.  In fact, Richard III has opened its already sold-out London season recently to glowing reviews across the board and from the press worldwide.

Date & Time From 17 Nov 2011, Thu To 26 Nov 2011, Sat DURATION/OPENING HOURS Three hours / 3pm and 8pm TICKETING DETAILS From S$30 to S$345VENUE Esplanade Theatre CONTACT PERSON / EVENT ORGANIZER Parveen Nisha

Tel: 6733 8166

Say oui to the art of living it upLooking for something très cool to do? Voilah! the annual French Festival in Singapore, is back with a fantastic mix of activities and events. From French art to French movies, classical music to pop tunes, impressionism to graffiti, this year’s edition of Voilah! aims to showcase the diversity of France and its cul-ture. Organised by the French Embassy in Singapore, Voilah! will feature exhibitions, plays, film screenings and writers reflecting on French culture in diverse areas. Soak in the French culture and live it up with savoir fare at Voilah!

Date & Time From 25 Oct 2011, Tue To 1 Dec 2011, Sun CONTACT PERSON / EVENT ORGANIZER Laurence Harel

Tel: (65)6887-4686

EVENT LISTING

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Dance is an art form that is age old, it is a form of non-verbal expression, it makes music come alive and is fun to take part in

and to watch. In this revamped Last Word section of Art Jam, We introduce to you the various styles of dance, including a couple you might not have heard about!

Salsa

Salsa dancing is a dance style associated with the salsa style of music. Salsa music has its origins sometime in the 1950s to 1970s; the music fuses a number of Cuban styles, particularly the son, but also draws from a number of other Latin American musical styles.

Salsa dancing is done on eight-beat music, with dancers moving on three beats, pausing for one beat, dancing for three beats, and pausing for one beat. Salsa dancing is largely stationary with little movement across the dance floor. The dance looks energetic as dancers use sharp moments of their upper and lower bodies to compensate for the lack of movement around the floor.

Ballroom-Rumba

Like Salsa, the Rumba emphasizes body movements more than footwork. The rhythm of the dance, which is emphasized by any type of percussion, drums, pots, maracas, etc., is more essential to the dance than the tune itself. The rhythm and fluid body movements of this dance have made it popular in recent years.

The Rumba was influenced by the Spanish and Africans with most of the development of the dance taking place in Cuba. There is a level of controversy surrounding Rumba, which is sometimes said to be a pantomime of sex with the man dancing aggressively in a very fast and highly sensual manner with exaggerated hip movements and the woman responding with a defensive attitude. Indeed, the Rumba is the most sensual of all the Latin ballroom dances.

Melbourne Shuffle

Yes, the Melbourne Shuffle is indeed linked to the brand of “shuffling” as popularized by the Electro-Hop group LMFAO. What you may not know is that this form of dance was by no means their invention, as unknown to many; the Melbourne Shuffle dance style has remained relatively underground since its birth in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. The basic movements in the dance are a fast heel-and-toe action with a style suitable for various types of electronic music, sometimes with upper body movements thrown in. Originally a rocker’s style of casual dance, it has been made immensely popular in the recent year with constant references and its relative ease to master. Often performed at nightclubs and raves, this style of dance looks set to be around for quite awhile.

East Coast Swing

East Coast Swing (ECS) is a form of social partner dance It is danced to fast swing music such as

LastLastLastWord

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rock and roll. The dance evolved from the Lindy Hop (An American social dance) with the work of an individual called Arthur Murray in the 1940s. East Coast Swing has a 6 count basic step. This is in contrast to the meter of most swing music, which has a 4 count basic rhythm.

Flamenco Dance

With roots in Indian, Arabic, Spanish cultures, flamenco dance is known for its sweeping arm movements and rhythmic feet stomping. Flamenco dancers spend a great deal of time practicing and perfecting the often difficult dance. Although there is no single flamenco dance, dancers must follow a strict framework of rhythmic patterns. The steps a dancer performs are dependent on the traditions of the song being played. Perhaps the greatest joy of flamenco dancing is watching the personal expressions and emotions of the dancer, which

change many times during a single performance. This is a very difficult form of dance to master.

Tap dancing

Tap is an exciting form of dance in which dancers wear special shoes equipped with metal taps. Tap dancers use their feet like drums to create rhythmic patterns and timely beats. The term “tap dancing” is derived from the tapping sound produced when the small metal plates on the dancer’s shoes touch a hard floor or surface. A common style of tap dancing is called “classical tap.” Classical “tappers” use their arms and upper bodies to blend movements of ballet or jazz into their tap routines. “Hoofers” try to use every part of their shoes to make their feet sound like drums.

For more information on our dance based member clubs do visit our website at http://ntucac.com/member-clubs/dance/dance

If you have the passion for the arts scene in Singapore and love to write, come join us in our dynamic CAC publications team. Our team will be covering events that are organized by the 22 member clubs and other special projects in addition to the local arts scene; hence we are looking for more editors, writers and photographers!

Alternatively, if you have any interesting articles that would like to be published in Art Jam, please do email us at cac_publication@ntu.edu.sg with your name and contact number. Anyone can be part of this great team! So hurry! We look forward to hearing from you!

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