A bunch of kids having a boisterous round of tug-of-war would usually garner anxious warnings from overprotective parents under normal circumstances, but this episode of “rough” play was deliberately staged for a good cause.
Eighteen children from YoungTalents — an initiative designed to develop the creative arts in children — were invited by concert organizer UnUsual Productions, to share the stage with Wakin Chau during his One Wakin Live in Singapore concert on 7 February 2009.
The playground re-enactment was all part of Wakin’s performance of My Dearest Son My Dearest Baby, a song the 49-year-old Hong Kong singer-songwriter wrote for his newborn son back in 1990.
In addition to a convincing depiction of youthful exuberance, the kids also flaunted their vocal prowess by harmonizing beautifully midway through the song, thoroughly impressing the organizers.
Despite having to perform before an almost sold out crowd of 7,000, most of the children were quivering with excitement rather than stage fright. Their courage and stage presence belied their youthfulness.
Comprising 250 members aged four to 14, YoungTalents was formed in 2004 to inspire and harness the creative potential and energy of youths and children. YoungTalents performed in ad hoc events throughout 2008 and has even produced two musicals — When I Grow Up in 2007 and Special in 2008.
Anson Ang, manager of YoungTalents, strongly believes in cultivating positive self-esteem and confidence in children through widening their exposure and experiences in the creative arts. “We are committed to providing a collaborative platform for children and those with special needs to contribute to the performing arts scene,” he says.
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| PHOTOS: Gabriel Seow |
Even as the final strains of My Dearest Son My Dearest Baby fade away and the young members of YoungTalents conclude yet another spectacular performance, it is but the beginning for many of these talented little ones.
