Simfoni Lebaran Revisited…
I know this blog has been dead for the past month or so. It was meant to be deliberate that way since I did not attend any entertainment-related events of late. We are already into the last few days of Syawal. Goodness how time flies. Hope that your respective celebrations with family, friends and loved ones have been joyous and happy occasions so far. Before I move on and I hope it’s not too late to take this opportunity to wish all my Muslim readers Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri. I am also taking the opportunity to apologise from the bottom of my heart if my reviews or entries have been misunderstood or if I had angered and disappoint anyone through the words, tones and vocabulary used to express my thoughts. I’m not perfect, but I am also not holier-than-thou, so if I had come across as such, then I am truly sorry for potraying it.
Since this entry is a warm-up before I start being active all over again, it’s just going to be a short one with a compilation video of Simfoni Lebaran snapshots I took some two months ago. Yes, you guys might have watched the show on the eve of Hari Raya but the actual recording of the event was done on 8th July 2011, a week before the Anugerah Planet Muzik event. For those expecting me to post a review of the recent Wings concert, no I did not attend it. I would have gone if Search was part of a Double Trouble concert but not Wings alone. I’m also not going to review the upcoming Zain siblings’ (Ziana & Anuar) Pesta Raya concert, even though I am attending the event solely for Anuar Zain, so hopefully no one’s expecting me to post photographs, video clips or reviews concerning the show. Last but not least, enjoy the video…
Serpih Hati Rosa Promo…
SERPIH HATI ROSA
Naskah: DENHASAN Pengarah: ATIN AMAT
Genre: DRAMA SATIRA Sasaran: PERINGKAT MENENGAH & DEWASA
Durasi: 1½ Jam
SINOPSIS
Serpih Hati Rosa merupakan sebuah keluhan rasa cinta dan rindu seorang wanita yang diduga oleh kesetiaan dalam perhubungan. Rosa, 39 tahun, ibu kepada dua orang anak, hidup bahagia disamping keluarganya. Dia merupakan seorang wanita yang berkerjaya serta mempunyai segala-galanya dalam hidup. Namun, Rosa telah lama memendam rasa yang sering memakan dirinya sendiri.
Rosa tidak pasti mengapa setelah lima belas tahun berumahtangga, kini baru terasa dia telah tersalah membuat pilihan. Rosa merasakan ada sesuatu yang kurang dalam hidupnya. Suaminya, Zaki, amat penyayang. Rosa akur Zaki tiada kekurangan dan cacat-celanya, Namun, hatinya masih dan tetap merindui.
Selami kemelut Rosa untuk menjejaki serpihan hatinya yang hilang. Fahami Rosa dalam memujuk dirinya yang berserah pada ketentuan. Temani Rosa dalam memadam rindu yang bertandang.
APAKAH YANG DAPAT DIPELAJARI DARI PEMENTASAN INI?
Serpih Hati Rosa menyelami kekalutan jiwa seorang isteri dan ibu. Penonton dapat mempelajari tentang pahit-manis alam percintaan, kekeluargaan dan kepentingan membuat keputusan yang matang. Membuat pilihan yang salah akan menjejas masa depan seseorang.
BUTIR-BUTIR PEMENTASAN
PERFORMED IN MALAY, WITH ENGLISH SURTITLES
INFORMASI PERSEMBAHAN:
TARIKH: 8-9 April 2011
MASA: 3 petang & 8 malam
TEMPAT: The Arts House-Play Den 1 Old Parliament Lane Lavel 2 Annex Building, Singapore 179429
HARGA: $23/- Seorang (tidak termasuk ticket charge $2.00)
* Khas untuk sekolah-sekolah – Setiap pembelian 20 tiket, anda akan mendapat 1 tiket percuma.
Tiket-tiket boleh didapati melalui Arts House Hotline: 6332 6919 dan WWW.theartshouse.com.sg/tickets.html
Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubungi Kami di talian 6733 8969, 9723 5774 atau lungsuri lelaman teaterkami di teaterkami Facebook, Twitter dan teaterkami.multiply.com.
One Nation Emcees in SG…
This is quite a long overdue entry seeing that it’s been almost a month since the group was in town to perform at Singapore Expo Hall 5 in conjunction with Mega Weddings & Lifestyle and Exotica Indonesia 2011 exhibition (every year I’m intrigued by the mouthful name of this exhibition). The time span is even longer if you take into account that One Nation Emcees was also in Singapore for the annual Countdown event on the eve of the New Year at Float @ Marina Bay.
I’m breaking away from the norm of typing long entries and just letting my short video clip do the talking for me. I’ve been away from blogging for far too long and a short entry would be nice for a warm up on what’s to come for the year ahead. This clip combines both events at the Float @ Marina Bay as well as at the mini showcase over at Singapore Expo Hall 5 on 15th January 2011. Oh and in case you wonder why I’m using Usher‘s “DJ Got Us Falling In Love” track at the start of the clip, it was because the group performed that song at the Countdown event. Enjoy…
P.S. You need to view this clip via YouTube. Just click on the link. Apologies for the inconveniences…
Nona Kirana & Hisham Zain’s Wedding…
I’ve been away for quite a bit, and friends I met of late have commented how this blog has gone quiet for quite awhile. Which is why the statistics have dropped somewhat in the latter half of 2010. I’m not doing this for the ratings nor statistics. If I was, then you would be seeing an entry from me every other day. But the new year brings with it a new horizon and I do intend to furnish this site a little bit more regularly than the last, cos truth be told, I felt bad to people like Roze Kasmani, Sarah Aqilah, Hyrul Anuar and a few others to whom I attended their events and album launches, but did not make any entries on them due to family and work commitments. I hope I can make up to them somehow one way or another.
Anyway, the start of the new year also brings with it a new chapter in our lives. For this particular pair of lovely couple, the start of the new Gregorian year charts a new beginning for them as husband and wife. It is a fairytale ending for Hisham Zain as he finally got to wed the lady of his dreams, Warna 94.2FM‘s Nona Kirana. I will not repeat how their love story unfolded as it has been told before in print and online articles. All I can say is that I truly take my hat off to Hisham for realising his dreams, when most of us could only dream of getting married to someone we idolise or adore from a distance.
I was not involved in this like how I was during Huda Ali and Den Sabari‘s wedding last year, but still, I managed to spend some time capturing the joyous moments during the wedding at the bride’s side on 1st January 2011. The wife and I had a sense of deja vu when we found out who were the wedding caterers (Puteri Wedding Services), the very same one who did our wedding five years ago. Seeing Ummi, Alfarahizah Awangnit‘s mother, who was there as a guest, also brought the same feeling as she was our “Mak Andam” then.
It was a simple and humble affair befitting of the couple’s personality, but its simplicity was enough to bring out the joy and love shared by them and felt by the guests who came. It was definitely an event to be remembered, and for those who are curious to see the wedding photos (my blog stats have indicated some of you have been searching for it), wait no more as I have prepared a short video on the wedding. Lest I forget, Happy New Year!!!
Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza Launches Sity Avita Sdn. Bhd.
Over the past weekend, I went up to Kuala Lumpur for a short getaway trip with the wife sans the kids. This was my first trip to the place I affectionately call “The City of Dreams” this year, having last made my way there in July 2009 to catch my beloved team, Manchester United, in action. The wife had some loyalty vouchers to make use of (free accomodation at Grand Millennium Hotel for 3 days 2 nights) before the year is out, so the trip was a much welcomed idea as it was our opportunity to get away from our hectic lives and just spend quality time together.
As the title header goes, this trip also coincided with the official launch of Sity Avita Sendirian Berhad. As regular readers of this blog would note, I had attended the Avita Awards on 30th October 2010 at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre with Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza herself being the guest artiste for the prestigious closed-door event. I had mentioned in my blog entry on that event, that Dato’ Siti has a major share in the Malaysian and Indonesian markets of Avita. It turns out that she is the chief investor in both markets and by placing her trust in the Avita brand, this signals her next foray in the business world after her successful ”C-Tea” and “SimplySiti” ventures.
Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza arriving, flanked by Avita CEO, Ms Lee Xiang Yin and followed closely by husband Dato’ Sri Khalid Md Jiwa…
By virtue of my aunt Faridah being a member of Avita Singapore Pte. Ltd. and who has been promoting the products to our family members, it was an honour to replace her, since she could not make it to the launch and being there to witness a landmark event in the ever-colourful career of Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza. This launch was held at the Sity Avita Sendirian Berhad office situated on the eleventh floor of Menara UOA Bangsar last Saturday 27 November 2010. The event venue is not to be confused with Wisma UOA KLCC or Menara UOA Damansara, in which the wife and I initially went to before realising we went to the wrong location. For foreign visitors like us, it was perhaps forgiven for not knowing where it is, but for the taxi driver who drove us there and the hotel concierge who said it was at Damansara, I think they should be shot at for not knowing their own town.
Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza unveiling the Avita logo…
Though the card stated that the event was to start at 9:30am, it actually began at 10:00am, with Dato’ Siti arriving, flanked by the Avita CEO, Ms Lee Xiang Yin, with her husband, Dato’ Sri Khalid Md Jiwa close behind. After a brief unveiling of the Avita logo at the office, the event’s guest-of-honour took her seat at the front of the conference room. Prior to her arrival, the guests were given translation devices as the Avita CEO, a Hong Kong native, would be speaking in Mandarin. The event proper began with Ms Lee addressing the audience in basic Malay and English thanking them for their presence at the unveiling of Sity Avita Sendirian Berhad before going on in Mandarin and speaking about how the company came about and how they managed to strike a common understanding with Malaysia‘s number one Diva. I will not delve much into the company’s profile as you can read them all via its website at www.myavita.com.
After a brief video presentation (above) to introduce her to the audience, half of whom made up of foreign members from the various Avita branches around Asia, Dato’ Siti came onstage and described how she was highly impressed by the Celergen product introduced to her by her sister-in-law, Puan Zaini, one of a few products being distributed by Avita. Besides rejuvenating her and improving her vitality, she noted that the product has given her immense freshness even when faced with a long day at work. Not only that, I saw the extra radiance as seen by her outlook so early in the morning, when most of us at 10:00am would sometimes still be looking listless or dreary and still wishing we’re in bed.
After taking the product for more than a year, she was suitably convinced to invest in the company, which officially started its operations under the name Sity Avita Sendirian Berhad on 1st October 2010. The company has been in operations in Malaysia for about three and a half years, so this rebranding exercise distinguishes it from other Avita branches around Asia. When quizzed during the media conference afterwards how much she had invested into the company, Dato’ Siti being her ever humble and modest self, declined to disclose how much she had put in, but she definitely hoped that this next venture of hers would also be as successful as her eight-month old SimplySiti brand of cosmetic products. She said that through her success in singing, she would want to share it with her fans. Through these ventures, they are also able to do likewise since this is another form of multi-level marketing. Sity Avita Sendirian Berhad will be helmed by Puan Zaini and the good people under her.
Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza flanked by Puan Zaini and Ms Lee Xiang Yin. Dato’ Siti managed to ask me, “Jauh sampai?” right after taking this photograph was taken. I could only managed a sheepish grin, nodded and winked back at her. We didn’t get to chat, but at least she still remembered yours truly for that brief few seconds…
Noting that she had shared the Celegen product with her good friend Kris Dayanti and how the Indonesian Diva had also been impressed by it, she announced that the Indonesian market will also have the Avita brand name being introduced in early 2011, barring any hiccups. Right now, they are still putting the finishing touches to the deal. The event ended with a short media conference meant for the media, who were all given a box of Celergen to try out for a month and for them to evaluate. I was fortunate enough to sit through the conference, thanks to my bulky camera, even though I had no official pass on myself. I was also the envy of my cousins, who sat out the media conference, as they said that the Celergen does not come cheap but yet it is very good and effective having tried them before.
Ms Lee & Dato’ Siti answering questions from the media…
Speaking of which, let me just give you a brief introduction of the Celergen product. As summarised from its official website (www.swisscelergen.com), Celergen is a powerful, multi-faceted Cell Therapy treatment system that is clinically proven and potently encapsulated with the essential elements of Marine DNA Cellular Extracts which are known for their supreme rejuvenative, regenerative and anti-oxidant properties resulting in immense energy, enhanced vitality and ageless beauty. Researched and developed by prestigious Swiss, French and German anti-aging experts, cell therapists, gerontologists, biotech chemists, scientists and pharmaceutical prefessionals, Celergen aims to intercept and prevent, repair and maintain, rebuild and rehabilitate your body irrespective of one’s age. Best of all, it’s Halal-certified and approved by many health food organisations.
Dato’ Sri Khalid Md Jiwa was a keen observer of the proceedings by the corner…
A short chat with Dato’ Khalid after the media conference had ended, had him praising and espousing the product and the miracles it brought to people who had taken them. Whispering softly, he said there were cases of women who had experienced menopause taking the product and experiencing menstruation all over again. Looking at his youthful outlook, it was no surprise when Dato’ Siti exclaimed that one of the secrets to his age-defying outlook was down to consuming the Celergen product. Seeing is believing and I was generally swayed to try out the product. If Malaysia‘s number one singer has put her money on a product that she is genuinely convinced of, then I have to say that it is something worth trying for and so will I for the next month or so…
The cousins and wifey taking a photograph with Dato’ Siti before she left…
Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza @ Avita Awards 2010…
(Image courtesy of Avita‘s official website at www.myavita.com)
I know it’s been a long, long while since I did a proper entry on the local entertainment scene. Other than the odd promos here and there courtesy of the information provided by event organisers, this blog has been somewhat dead. Even the supposed entries on past events that I attended and which I had initially promised to upload have been put to a backseat. I dunno if I should upload them now seeing that some of the events were like almost half the year gone and a bit stale but I guess better late than never. Since I’ve been away for so long, I need that wee bit of momentum to get me going.
Looking at the amount of stuff I would be typing, I believe this entry is gonna be quite brief, simply because I dunno what to describe about the abovementioned closed-door corporate event that I attended on 30th October 2010 at the Simpor Hall of the Marina Bay Sands Expo & Convention Centre. I wasn’t interested about the awards or the happenings that went on at the event. The wife and I were only there for one reason – To watch Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza perform!!! Oh but before going on, I would like to take this opportunity to thank my aunt Faridah for getting us, the cousins, a table for the event, since she is a member of Avita. Also for the rooms at Marina Bay Sands Hotel.
Since the wife and I were only there for Dato’ Siti, naturally we only left for the event after Maghrib even though it stated we were supposed to be seated by 6:45pm. We reached the event hall close to 8pm and Dato’ Siti was already belting out her first song, Celine Dion‘s “A New Day Has Come“. She surprised the audience afterwards by singing the late Teresa Teng‘s hit ”Yue Liang Dai Biao Wo De Xin“. She ended off her night by performing a familiar hit, “Destinasi Cinta“. In between, she addressed the audience through carefully scripted words in English. Much has been said about her lack of confidence in speaking the language, but I don’t give much of a damn really. Quite a few international stars out there also struggle to speak the language yet no one’s batting an eyelid. She should be lauded for at least trying and respecting the event as well as the guests. Some events don’t even respect the guests with the hosts speaking in another language and making them feel awkward and disillusioned.
The wife and I did not stay long and we left at around 9:10pm as we had to change and rush off to the Esplanade where The Fabulous Cats and two of our local acts Dynda and Komrad were performing at 10:00pm. But we still managed to say “Hi!” and took a photo with the diva herself and I got to shake Dato’ Khalid Mohd Jiwa‘s hands for the first time when Dato’ Siti introduced me to him. He comes across as stern but actually he’s a very nice and soft-spoken chap, even asking how was the event when we said our goodbyes. Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza for the record, has in the words of the event hosts that night, a major share in the Malaysian and Indonesian markets of Avita. So I believe we will be seeing her quite a bit promoting the products over at both countries in the near future.
The wife and my elder sister Farah with Dato’ Siti Nurhaliza…
Anyway, speaking of the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, if you’re intending to stay there, be prepared for poor service, massive delays, haunted hotel rooms (allegedly, based on my younger sister’s experience), a lack of Halal eateries (the nearest being Marina Square) with its only saving graces being the breathtaking views from the hotel rooms as well as the Skypark. Other than that, the place is a major letdown. A big disappointment really since it is supposed to cater to international guests and if it’s meant to be that way, it is not a great advertisement of our country to them. I really hope for its sake, the staff would buck up and provide tip-top service. No point in it being astounding in design architecture but not providing prompt and most importantly, service with a smile…
The only good thing about staying at Marina Bay Sands Hotel…
Merah Pawana Promo II…
Last week I gave a detailed promo on the abovementioned event. This week, I’m uploading various interviews by the main and supporting cast, the director, Mr. Najib Soiman as well as the mastermind of the show himself, Mr. Rafaat Hamzah. So without further ado, I present to you the video clips. All credits of the videos go to “ayid85“…
Merah Pawana – Teaser
Interview with Sani Hussin & Hatta Said
Interview with Noris “Wandy” & Farah Ong
Interview with Najib Soiman
Interview with Rafaat Hamzah
Merah Pawana – Trailer
Constipated – Presented by KreatiV OutBox
Meet Haryani, Moli (Playwright) and Dew (Director) at Open stage in Library@Esplanade, on 9 October, 5pm. An excerpt of the play will be presented followed by a short talk-back session. Also, catch Haryani on Ria 89.7FM on Friday 15th Oct from 9-10pm. Free tickets to be given away!
Synopsis
An oversized and happy girl. A man leading a double life. A best friend that always saves the day. What will happen when these three souls were intertwined into one love triangle. A story that surfaces the true meaning of friendship and sweet revenge at its best.
Sofia, an oversized girl will share her story. You may have guessed it; she was betrayed by Ana – her best friend. The one who will come to her defense when the boys feed on her size and weight. Now, Sofia is facing her ‘closest’ enemy. The only ‘wall’ that separates her from the cruel world. The one that knows her boyfriend as San Kok.
Far from confronting it, she leads them to end the story her way. Watch her as she takes her husband-to-be and her best friend to a journey of THEIR lifetime. A story that deals with insecurities, love & betrayal that could hit on anyone in any form, regardless of size, age, gender, lineage and sexual preferences.
**Not Suitable for Those Aged 16 years and Below
Show Details
Constipated
A production By KreatiV OutBox
22nd October 2010 8pm & 23rd October 2010 3pm, 8pm
The Arts House, Playden
In Malay and English, with English subtitles
Tickets:
$25 (Adults) , $20 (Students, senior citizen & NSF)
Group Discount – $23 (For every group of 5)
Prices above is not inclusive of $2 ticket charge.
Tickets can be purchased online via http://www.bytes.sg
Ticketing details is available via http://www.theartshouse.com.sg
Key Personnel
1. Dew M. Chaiyanara – Director
2. Molizah Mohd – Playwright
3. Haryani Othman – Actor
Profiles
Dew M. Chaiyanara
Director
Dew is a Drama graduate of Lasalle-SIA-College of the Arts, Kasamawati Masmintra Chaiyanara (Dew) has written and directed numerous dramatic performances. One of her successful plays includes, Tell Me a Story, which was performed in 2003 at the Tongues Untied: International Monologue Festival, was in a bid to expose the harsh reality of child prostitution in Southeast Asia. Her controversial play, URD:Urban/Rural Decay, was staged in natural surroundings and exposed to the elements in an open field, touched on sensitive subject of Singapore’s mysterious 1960’s Bukit Ho Swee fire. The provocative drama skit, Circus Tigers, which incorporates the use of New Media, was performed in 2004 at the National University of Singapore, received positive feedback on its contents of revealing cruelty of animal exploitation in the entertainment industry.
Molizah Mohd
Playwright
Moli Mohd started her theatre stint in 2005. She has performed in various productions (Malay and English) and is currently active in stage managing. Her recent works as a performed was Heart(h) by Teater Ekamatra and Cabinet by The ETCeteras Productions both staged in 2010. With the experience she had as an actor and other parts of theatre craft, Moli can be considered as an all rounder in a theatre production. This is a major comeback for Moli after writing for Teater Artistik in 1997 for a production entitled Tiana.
Haryani Othman
Actor
Haryani Othman is and up and coming Comedienne in the Malay Entertainment industry. Finding her way from theatre, Haryani has performed in Srikandi Dendam Berbalas, Cinta Ibu, Besar punya Hantu, Ani dan Beego, Gentarasa 2007 and O Glamour. Her TV works include, Graffiti, Tahu Nahu, Kain Songket Kain Pelikat, 1988… Segaris Sinar and many more. Haryani
is also a freelance writer for local Magazine such as Sutra and Malay Newspaper Berita Harian.
Company Profile
KreatiV OutBox is formed by a group of theatre enthusiasts with diverse background in theatre-making. It aims to be at the front row in beating the misconception of theatre being an art form only for the elites. KreatiV OutBox aims to explore various range of theatrical forms bringing it to a more digestible level that can be enjoyed by all range of audiences. Being a non-profit theatre company that gears all monetary funding towards staging productions, we are dedicated to developing and producing socially relevant plays for the community. The company believes in giving a voice for the Malay community and creating works that can be reinvented to suit the future. By this, KreatiV OutBox always makes sure that the performances will not only be relevant but it must be paired with a great deal of entertainment – without compromising the artistic integrity of every production.
Working Committee 2009 – 2010
President: Izad Omar
Secretary: Nureen Royani
Asst. Secretary: Agnes Christina
Treasurer: Noorizah Rahim
Members:
Khairul Famy Bin Kassim
Muhammad Juremy Bin Mohamed Jumadi Irfan Kasban
Hairul Fazli Bin Ariffin
Haslinda Bt Othman
Rafeah Binte Omar
Nor Adlina Bte Abdul Majid
Majlis Persandingan Huda Ali & Den Sabari…
Honestly I dunno how to translate nor give a politically-correct sounding term in English to replace the word “sanding“, hence the title has been preserved in its originality so as not to smear it with a bad translation of my own. If you have been following the last two entries I made, you would know that this entry is the last of a three-part series to celebrate arguably the “Wedding of the Year” in the context of the local Malay entertainment industry.
I will henceforth not bore you further with my blabberings and instead let you enjoy the video I’ve put up. Yes I know the background music does not tally with what was being portrayed but the song “For The Rest of My Life” sung by Maher Zain, is a song that the newly-wedded couple love and one that I’ve fallen for the first time I heard it after they introduced it to me. And since it has a Middle-Eastern influence, I’ve added another two personal favourites of mine of the same genre and with the same theme. So without further ado, here it is:
For the record, the wedding was made possible by the kind sponsorship of Bottle Tree Park Pte Ltd, Chinta Weddings, Fatimah Mohsin: The Wedding Gallery, M.A.C., Theme Photography, StudioDua Boutique Photography, Sugarly Nice, Shaistah’s Ink, M.J. Weddings, Lydia’s Oven, Ben Dasuki for the Wedding Bouquets, Sound-Vox Productions & Qaboom with Gumbira.com as Official Online Media.
To the team that ensured the smooth running of events over the three days led by Netty Fiona, you guys are the best!!!
Huda Ali & Den Sabari’s Wedding Dinner…
Continuing where I left off from the previous entry, this was the second-part of a three-day celebration for the newly-weds. Held at the main multi-purpose hall at the Bottle Tree Park situated at Lorong Chencharu on the evening of Saturday 17th July 2010, this was an event which was close to a Pesta Perdana affair, with local celebrities and personalities gracing the occasion, dressed in their nines. Not even the humid weather could dampen the mood as everyone was seen smiling and grinning away, catching up with each other and of course to celebrate the union of the newly-betrothed.
This was also an event that was unforgettable on a personal level as I had experienced a “wardrobe mulfunction” and had to rush home to change my clothes. Due to this unexpected turn of events, I had to miss Sleeq performing “Terima Kasih Sayang” as well as the grand entrance made by Huda & Den, who were serenaded to the tunes of Afgan‘s “Bukan Cinta Biasa” by guest violinist Adliana Supiani. A big thank you goes out to bro Izarr of Izone.sg for being kind enough to take over photo-taking duties when I had to go off for awhile. Appreciate the kind help there.
The event was excellently hosted by none other than Shahrin Azhar and what is a wedding dinner without love songs being serenaded??? Hyrul Anuar‘s version of “Dealova” had my hairs standing on its end, and Sleeq had the guests bobbing their heads when they performed their current hit single on the airwaves ”Untuk Dia” slightly later. Roze Kasmani rounded off the performing cast singing her hit single “Harum“, which literally summed up the fragrance emanating from the blossoming love of the newly-wedded couple. It was indeed a beautiful event for a beautiful couple and attended by beautiful people. Enjoy the video!!!
Thank you also to Netty Fiona, the mastermind behind this event, as well as Huda Ali and family for extending their kind invitation to us…
Huda Ali & Den Sabari’s Wedding Solemnisation Ceremony…
It was a wedding that was long-awaited for when news of it first made its way on Gumbira.com some months ago and was then picked up by the other entertainment magazines. For the local Malay entertainment fraternity, this was a highly-anticipated event as not many of our local entertainment personalities celebrate their weddings with such a grand affair as this. When one thinks of posh celebrity weddings in the local context, the wedding celebrations of Nurul Aini & Norfasarie back in 2008 immediately come to mind. This year, we can safely add the union of Huda Ali and her husband Den Sabari to the list of momentous and joyous occasions befit for A-List celebrities.
Held at the Bottle Tree Park situated at Lorong Chencharu in the Yishun area on Thursday 15 July 2010 at 8:30pm, the solemnisation ceremony was attended by close friends and family members. Care and consideration were made to ensure the event remained very much private and exclusive from the public eye. When I arrived with my family, most of the guests were already seated waiting for the arrival of the groom as well as the marriage solemniser, Ustaz Sallim Jasman. We did not have to wait too long as the groom arrived shortly after along with his entourage, followed by Ustaz Sallim himself.
The couple being interviewed by Mediacorp Suria which will be shown on the Persada Seni capsule very soon…
After the usual pleasantries and courtesies were exchanged, it was down to the business of solemnising the marriage. Though the groom looked a little tensed, the bride’s father was slightly overwhelmed by the occasion as he gave away his only daughter’s hand in marriage, needing to recite his lines a few times. Reciting the obligatory lines only once, Den Sabari officially became the husband of Huda Ali, much to everyone’s joy as witnessed on the looks on their faces. The bride herself was overcome with emotions as she was seen dabbing her eyes from the tears that flowed freely.
For the record, both the bride and the groom exchanged eight trays of gifts, with the wedding dowry being a crystal wedding ring and $15406 in cash. For those who might wonder why the monetary value looked a little odd, it actually symbolised the date that the newly-wedded couple first got together – 15 April 2006. It was during that time that Huda was going through the inaugural Anugerah Skrin competition, which of course we all know by now that she won along with Shahril Wahid. You can read all about the couple’s love story in this month’s Sutra magazine.
The couple with the apples of my eyes…
To Huda, we might have been acquaintances before this season’s Anugerah Skrin 2010 and to Den, we might have gotten to know one another through being occasional team-mates during weekend / social football, but I feel that the bond we’ve shared and forged after the weekly variety episodes have made us closer and more at ease with one another. Both of you are truly made for each other and I pray for nothing less than the best for your marriage and may it last till the end of time. May Almighty Allah bless this union and may you both have beautiful babies as handsome and pretty as you…
Thank you also to Netty Fiona, the mastermind behind this event, as well as Huda Ali and family for extending their kind invitation to us…
Teasers Galore…
I know I have not been updating this blog for quite some time. Now that Anugerah Skrin is over and there will not be that many shows or events to attend between now and after Hari Raya, I can finally update this blog on past events and shows that I attended between May 2010 and now. Sometimes I wish I could do this on a full-time basis so as not to make you guys wait and wait only to see the same previous posts you have read before. But there is no market nor monetary opportunity yet for me to turn full-time nor able to earn what I am getting now from my day job.
Which is why I hope you guys would understand that delaying of event updates or uploading of photographs taken at events are very much inevitable as I too have a young family who need my attention other than my daily work commitments. This is more or less a sideline passion which brings me no substantial income, a yeoman service I hope would be beneficial for those who were not able to make it to the events and shows I attended.
Just to whet your appetite on what’s in store for this blog in the weeks to come will be updates on:
The three-day wedding affair of Huda Ali & Den Sabari…
Anugerah Skrin 2010 Grand Finals recap…
The Piala Dollah Kassim tournament which I participated in…
Hyrul Anuar‘s album launch…
Sarah Aqilah‘s album launch…
And last but not least, Roze Kasmani‘s formal introduction to the media…
WATCH THIS SPACE!!!
Sriwana Celebrates 55 Years of Existence…
GALA CULTURAL NITE – AN INSIGHT INTO THE HEART OF SRIWANA.
2010 Emerald Anniversary Celebration – An Ode To Believing will showcase 4 major highlights, kicking off with a grand official opening of the evening. Artistic excellence from SRIWANA’s cream of choreographers, namely, Osman Hamid, Hajjah Som Said – both Cultural Medallion recipients, Fauziah Hanom Yusof, Fauzi Anwar – budding and promising in-house choreographers. The show will be graced by a strong and talented pool of 50 SRIWANA dancers both existing as well as past dancers.
One significant segment would feature Sukarji Sukarman; a dance choreographer from Indonesia who possesses widespread experience and prestige in the dance community since 1984. This gentleman has provided numerous significant contributions in the establishment and development of Malay dance. His contribution was not only limited to Sriwana but also to the Singapore Malay community as a whole.
Fauziah Hanom Yusof – Sriwana‘s very own-bred dancer turned choreographer has been instrumental in the artistic development of the group’s performances especially so in the last 5 years. She has co-led the group in several festivals and her numerous creative works have become the platform of the group’s fundamentals and inadvertently enhanced the group’s repertoire. Had been responsible for the group’s new image and had contributed significantly to the success and being of the group till today.
Collaborating together, Sukarji with his wealth of knowledge in modern and traditional performing arts and the artistic excellence of the group, an interesting dance piece will materialise and evolve. Injections of foreign artistic elements will definitely elevate the group’s performances and not to mention the knowledge and experience gained from such collaboration.
Another significant highlight will be special appearance of the members of the alumni – they will combine with the existing dancers, to bring back mesmerizing memories of their early days with the group – a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
To celebrate this joyous occasion and achievement, SRIWANA is also extending their invite to dance performers from the other Malay performing groups like Teater Tari Era, Sri Warisan and Majlis Pusat to name a few to celebrate together their 55 years of achievement. A memorable conglomeration of the mega groups who are responsible for the development of the local Malay performing arts scene as they end the night with a mesmerizing fiesta finale!
Yet another highlight of this dance-musical theatre production will be that of the total live music accompaniment of the re-known Sri Mahligai, a local Malay traditional music ensemble. Sri Mahligai had been accompanying the group in a significant number of her major productions and had never failed to live up to his name. And for that, Sri Mahligai is being called upon again this year.
Another special highlight is the presence of Tengku Ryo Riezkan, another reknown leading Indonesian violinist. His collaboration with Sri Mahligai will bring forward another cross cultural understanding and co-operation; enriching our ethnic touch with modern contemporary tunes.
These are part of Sriwana‘s efforts to elevate the standard of our local performing arts.
Not losing in importance is another one of SRIWANA’s forte – theatre. The majority of television personalities and celebrities in this field are largely from Sriwana. Its theatre festivals saw many budding artistes and celebrities nurtured throughout the years, achieving fame and recognition locally and abroad.
Sriwana’s achievement in Theatre saw multiple rewards in its participation in the festivals organized by Ministry of Culture which bagged Best Production Awards, for three consecutive years for its presentation of KUTUKAN (The Curse), MALAIKAT (Angels) and SELIMUT PUTIH (The White Robe).
This year the group is proud to have with them the special appearances of our local Malay drama icons Norsiah Ramly and Azman Shariff together with the group’s very own talented children.
This tragedy and thriller was written by Cultural Medallion recipient Nadiputra
I Stand Corrected…
I just realised that being a self-styled entertainment blogger is not as easy as it seems even if what was typed bore no ill-intentions nor wanting to create more dissentions than pre-existed. When I typed the last entry, the anugeraHitz.sg review, I typed it without any sense of sensationalising nor to bring others in a negative light, on whichever topics I touched upon. Which is why I am very much surprised to learn that certain things I typed about could possibly be a source for debate, something that I did not set out to do.
First things first. I would like to thank my friends over at Gumbira.com for kindly pointing out a mistake I could have possibly made when I mentioned in my last entry that Aliff Aziz did not send in any nominations for anugeraHitz.sg. As pointed out by them, yes I did not approach Aliff‘s management for clarification on the matter, and for that I apologise to them for my oversight and any misunderstandings or grievances that had materialised as a result. Getting the opinions from both ends (Aliff‘s management as well as the anugeraHitz.sg organisers), which is one of the basic rules in journalism, was a matter that I had failed to exercise and for that, I stand corrected.
Also as pointed out by Gumbira on a sensitive topic from my review which they had zoomed in upon, I hope nobody out there reads it and thinks that I’m trying to be a firestarter of sorts. When I typed about that particular topic, I had no intentions whatsoever to create any controversies nor disharmony between any parties involved. What I had shared was from what I read months ago from other blogs and heard through conversations with some of our local acts. Which was why I clearly said I am in no position to answer nor defend the allegations as they are all news to me. If they have any grievances or problems then the best way is to settle things amicably through the newly-formed Malay Artistes Association (MAA) and the relevant authorities.
Time and time again I always say that I would like to see our small and growing local Malay entertainment industry thrive and I want all parties to work hand in hand so that we could all prosper together. Niggly problems should be ironed out and any frictions should be smoothened. If things could not be agreed upon fully, then perhaps there could be some compromise. Also when it comes to accountability, then the topic of transparency is not too far away. It works that way no matter which industry we work for or we are in. So I hope things would work well if there are any outstanding issues that need to be clarified and understood so that we can all dispel any unhappiness we might have. If I had said the wrong things in the previous entry and eventually creating more misunderstandings, then I sincerely apologise to all parties involved…
Xpedisi Siswa Auditions Promo…
For approximately a decade, Forum Universiti (University Forum), an MOU programme between MediaCorp Suria and Radio Television Brunei, have seen the congregation of undergraduates from both countries. It is a platform for young innovative minds to discuss important issues affecting them, share their concerns and sharpen their thinking. The past decade has brought with it other learning and sharing opportunities, which will be leveraged in the new reality TV programme entitled, “XPEDISI SISWA”.
XPEDISI SISWA (Uni Expedition) is a one-hour reality TV programme telecast in both Singapore and Brunei Darussalam. It is an experiential learning experience where a group of undergraduates from both Singapore and Brunei Darussalam travel to an Asian country for a few days. There, they will be ‘adopted’ by a local family, experience the local culture and lifestyle of the community and will be put through two challenges which will test their teamwork, general knowledge and other life skills. The world is your classroom.
XPEDISI SISWA is programmed to allow the participants and also the audience to learn about the language, culture, history and geography of the location where the participants call home for five days. Being in a foreign land, participants will have to rely on their soft skills to adapt, more so if they are put through challenges. Thus they have an opportunity to learn about themselves and each other. The participants will be 4 undergraduates from each country. Each team of 4 members will comprise of both Singapore and Brunei representatives.
In light of this, Mediacorp Suria will be holding an audition for FULL-TIME STUDENTS aged 18-25 from SMU, NTU, NUS & SIM at 2pm at Caldecott Broadcast Centre this Saturday 10th April 2010. Interested individuals will need to email the organisers their particulars (name and IC number) for security clearance purposes. Emails can be sent to nettyothman@mediacorp.com.sg or zulina@mediacorp.com.sg, latest by Friday 9th April 2010 12pm.
Happy 2nd Birthday Syadiyah Asyura Darling!!!
I seldom talk about my family, especially my two princesses in my blog, unlike most bloggers I observe. Not that I’m not proud of them. I really do, especially when I see their antics, how they progress and how they grow in front of my eyes. Contrary to popular beliefs, I’m actually quite the private person and I would also like my children to stay away from the limelight as much as possible. The photo of them that greets you every time you enter this blog is my way of showing how much I love and adore them. To say that they are the symbols of my pride is an understatement. They’re more than that. Being the protective father, I guess I’m just doing my part to shield them from the outside world.
However, once in a blue moon, I would break away from my apparent “uptight rein” and accord them their rightful mention in this blog and today 1st April 2010 marks a special day for my second daughter Syadiyah Asyura. It might be April Fools Day to many, but to us, we have been honouring this day since 2008 as she celebrates her birthday, and today she turns two. Time sure flies in the blink of an eye. But I’ve never felt the two years have been a waste of time seeing her grow into the cheeky girl that she is and joker of the two apples of my eyes. Between the two, she is closer to me though it has to be said I love both with equal measure. Little wonder, cos she knows how to soften and pacify my heart when I’m angry with them.
Happy 2nd Birthday sweetheart… May Almighty Allah continue to bless you with good health, knowledge and intelligence, as well as being our source of humour and focal point of entertainment when we feel down or tired. May you grow up also to be a good, if not better, Muslimah and Solehah… Ayah, Ibu & Kakak will always love, cherish and treasure you with all our hearts…
Please Support Project V.O.A.!!!
This noble project is in support of the victims of the earthquake in Haiti and your humble presence is needed in giving hope to the less fortunate in the strickened country. Also, your support towards our less-than-glamourous, but nonetheless, artistes of decent calibre, would go a long way in bringing up our industry to the next level. They need a platform to showcase their talents. The platform is already given. It’s up to you now to show your support for the cause and to the artistes involved…
