By Debbie Ong
City Harvest Church’s (CHC) School of Theology (SOT) presented its first talent show, International Idol, on 7 June 2009, at CHC’s Jurong West premises.
With the goal of reaching out to the community, SOT brought together eight groups of finalists from different nationalities, religious groups and professions. The display of talents, which included hip-hop dances, power vocals and band performances, dazzled the audience and impressed the judges, who were Dean of Students, Bobby Chaw, Singer-Songwriter, Allan Moo, Indonesian Singer, Sendy Bolang and former Miss Singapore International 2006, Genecia Luo.
Living up to its expectations, the crowd’s favorite, Flower Lover, was crowned champion, inching ahead of very close competition. The group of seven comprised Japanese, Taiwanese, Malaysian and mainland Chinese who spent close to two months preparing for their performance. Bolang commented that the strong support Flower Lover received from the audience swayed the judges’ decision as audience-rapport is crucial for the entertainer.
At his closing speech, Chaw cited Singapore’s Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew’s exhortation towards greater integration between new immigrants and Singaporeans. Chaw also encouraged everyone to embrace the different cultures and nationalities in Singapore. International Idol was indeed an event that transcended boundaries of race and nationalities. As student Jonathon Ne Win, 21 observes, “International Idol was not just about spectacular performances but it was to showcase the best of the diverse cultures we enjoy in Singapore”.
