T3

With numerous three-hour practices a week since October 2016, the performers of the Chingay parade never had it easy. Rehearse, perform, repeat. This was how it was like for the performers representing the Japanese Association, Singapore (JAS) as they prepared for Chingay. 

 

With the long relentless hours needed to be put into Chingay, it is no doubt that many would be reluctant to commit to it. However, as for one of the oldest performers representing the JAS, Mrs Izumi Yamada's dedication had once again brought her back to the stage after nine long years. 

​

The 57-year-old Japanese housewife, Mrs Yamada’s first participation in the Chingay Parade would date back to 2003. She stopped for a year before returning to participate in 2005, all the way till 2008. Unfortunately, due to her husband’s job, she had to return to Japan. This resulted in her absence for the parade after 2008. However, after returning to Singapore in the recent years, her passion for the parade drove her to take the opportunity and once again, hit the stage with the JAS. This year would mark her return to the Chingay Parade after a long 9-year break.

​

The great dedication and passion that Mrs Yamada has for the Parade was evident when she came back to perform. However, there were also several other factors that persuaded the housewife to return.

​

Mrs Yamada said:“My team has 3 of my best friends and we always have so much fun performing. The memories I had from Chingay were so memorable that I just had to come back to do it again. I hope to forge even more new memories in the future years.”

​

After being absent from the scene for such an extended period, it is no doubt that Mrs Yamada faced setbacks in adapting to the dance moves.

​

“Sometimes if we have troubles with the moves, we will have make up lessons in the JAS or even my house. Also, I try to practice more whenever I have free time, it’s my responsibility to master the moves” she said, “For us, it was easier also because the moves given to us were not as difficult compared to the kids’, that helps me as well,” she added.

​

The Chingay Parade has not only created unbreakable bonds among cultures in Singapore, but it has also cultivated many meaningful relationships among performers. This has been no different for Mrs Yamada as she continues to forge close friendships through the parade despite the cultural differences. 

​

“It doesn’t matter if we have different backgrounds, we still help one another when times get tough and it’s so great to see this. After all, we are all in this together.” She said. “I’ve made many new friends of different cultures and it makes me very happy because I learned a lot from them.” 

 

Mrs Yamada’s admirable decision to return to the Chingay Parade has definitely benefitted her in many ways. Who knows what the future may hold for her as her journey with Chingay continues?

​

​