Back In The Day: In 2021, NDP Was Held On 21 Aug For The First Time
On this day 3 years ago in 2021, the National Day Parade (NDP) wasn’t held on the usual 9th of August but, instead, took place on 21 Aug.
Remember COVID-19? (We don’t want to.) Singapore was in the thick of Phase 2 Heightened Alert, with fast-growing clusters. While a small ceremonial parade took place on National Day, the big NDP bash had to wait until after restrictions eased.
Even though it was a tough time, we took it in stride – because if there's one thing Singaporeans do well, it’s facing adversity with perseverance and determination, and staying together as one united people 🇸🇬
NDP like no other
The grandstands at The Float @ Marina Bay weren’t packed because of safe distancing measures, but the lucky 1,000 invited spectators (comprising COVID-19 frontliners, essential workers, and community volunteers) had the best seats in the house. And let’s not forget the real MVPs – the 600 "live" performers who made sure the show went on, even with all the restrictions.
Even though everyone was vaccinated, performers were tested for COVID-19 before every rehearsal, had to keep their masks on except when performing, and were split into small groups with staggered rehearsals to make sure social distancing was observed.
Our Singapore spirit shines through
The theme of NDP 2021 was "Together, Our Singapore Spirit," and it couldn’t have been more fitting. The performances were a celebration of the unity and resilience that got us through the pandemic. It wasn’t just about the parade, it was a salute to the frontliners and everyday heroes who kept the country going through the toughest of times.
Of course, some fan favourites made their return. We saw the Red Lions, the feu de joie, and the State Flag Flypast. There was also an epic aerial display featuring Apache AH-64D helicopters and F-15SG fighter aircrafts.
NDP 2021 paid tribute to our pandemic heroes: COVID-19 frontliners, essential workers, and community volunteers waved their flags with pride as they received a salute from the parade contingents.
Stay-at-home NDP show
NDP 2021 was designed to be a completely stay-at-home event. We were treated to fully animated films as part of the NDP Show segment. The 14-min animated feature, produced by local studio Robot Playground Media, weaved through the show’s four acts and told the story of the "Singapore Spirit" through the eyes of six characters from different time periods.
And let's not forget the songs! Apart from the super catchy "The Road Ahead" (still playing in our heads today), there were two more original NDP songs - "Breathing City" and "Spirits Anew." This was only the third time in NDP history that we got more than one NDP theme song!
Sure, NDP 2021 was scaled down, but the Singapore spirit was bigger than ever. Whether you were at Marina Bay or watching from the comfort and safety of your home, the energy, hope, and resilience shone through, reminding us all that no matter what life throws at us, the show will always go on.
For the latest updates on Wonderwall.sg, be sure to follow us on TikTok, Telegram, Instagram, and Facebook. If you have a story idea for us, email us at [email protected].
