Filmmaker Boo Junfeng Revamps Singapore’s National Day Parade

With just two weeks to go before Singapore’s National Day, filmmaker Boo Junfeng is orchestrating a vibrant celebration as the creative director of this year’s National Day Parade (NDP). In his workspace at the Padang, a repurposed shipping container, he outlined plans for the event, which will take place on August 9, 2023. This year marks the 60th anniversary of Singapore’s independence, and Boo is focused on creating a spectacular experience that resonates with the community.

Boo, who previously held the creative director role in 2018 and 2021, is introducing significant innovations for this year’s celebration. For the first time, the NDP will unfold across two venues: the Padang and Marina Bay. This expansion aims to engage a larger audience and ensure that all attendees feel a part of the central festivities. “People usually come to Marina Bay for the fireworks but often feel disconnected from the main event,” Boo explained. “This time, we are ensuring that those at Marina Bay can feel they are part of the action.”

The parade will feature a synchronized audio system that broadcasts music and commentary throughout Marina Bay, enhancing the experience for attendees. Boo is committed to creating choreographed moments that connect both locations, including a special performance of last year’s NDP theme song, “Not Alone.” Veteran singer Rahimah Rahim will perform live at the Padang, while the song’s composer, Benjamin Kheng, will sing from a mobile stage floating in Marina Bay.

Recognized for its scale, this year’s NDP involves over 39 artists and 3,000 performers. The centerpiece will be a 360-degree stage at the Padang, the largest mobile stage in the event’s history, alongside visually stunning light projections and unique floats designed by artists with disabilities. These artistic elements are intended not only to captivate audiences but also to convey deeper messages about inclusivity and the diverse narratives of Singaporeans.

Boo, who began his filmmaking career in 2004, gained international acclaim with his debut feature film, “Sandcastles,” presented at the Cannes Film Festival in 2010. His second film, “Apprentice,” premiered at Cannes in 2016 and was Singapore’s entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 2017 Oscars. His cinematic background shapes his vision for the NDP, focusing on storytelling that highlights the experiences of everyday Singaporeans.

“Since being approached for this role last year, I’ve spent months engaging with Singaporeans from various backgrounds,” Boo stated. “Their stories inform the show’s emotional narrative, showcasing the resilience and aspirations of our community.”

This year, the NDP will emphasize narratives surrounding people with disabilities, aligning with Boo’s long-standing commitment to empathy and inclusivity. He aims to elevate voices often overlooked, allowing them to contribute to the national story.

Boo’s journey to becoming the creative director has seen him evolve from focusing solely on professional excellence to valuing the spirit of collaboration among performers. “I used to prioritize technical perfection, but I’ve learned that the heart of the performance is what truly resonates,” he said. His experiences directing previous NDP shows have equipped him to navigate the complexities of this year’s event confidently.

Reflecting on his early memories of the NDP, Boo recalls the excitement of attending the parades with his family and the captivating performances that filled the sky. “Creating moments that inspire audiences to look up and around is a priority for me,” he noted, indicating his desire for the show to be immersive and memorable.

As Boo looks forward to the upcoming NDP, he remains committed to his filmmaking career. He plans to return to feature film production after the parade, with a project that has been eight years in the making. “Creating connections through storytelling is at the heart of what we do as artists,” he concluded. “I hope that this year’s show resonates with everyone, allowing them to see themselves reflected in the celebration.”