From singer to co-creative director: ChildAid 2024 features return of alumni like Amni Musfirah
In a whimsical, fantastical world called the Consortium Of Wishes, an AI machine sorts the dreams of children everywhere
LOCAL singer Amni Musfirah was 14 when she performed at her first ChildAid concert in 2008.
Now 30, she makes a return to the annual year-end charity concert organised by The Straits Times and The Business Times – this time helming the show as a co-creative director.
ChildAid concerts feature performances from young talents aged six to 19 and proceeds go to The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund and The Business Times Budding Artists Fund. The last edition raised more than S$2 million in December 2023.
Amni is one of the ChildAid alumni involved in its landmark 20th edition, which will take place at Esplanade Theatre, with three shows staged on Nov 29 and Nov 30. General sales start on Oct 10.
ChildAid kick-started Amni’s career in music, says the songwriter and producer who performed at the 2024 National Day Parade.
“Having the experience in ChildAid taught me a lot about the discipline that a performer must have. I learnt a lot about work ethic from the people at ChildAid,” says Amni, who also performed in the 2009, 2012 and 2023 editions of the charity concert.
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Her role as co-creative director is also significant, as she was mentored by Cultural Medallion recipient Iskandar Ismail, who was ChildAid’s creative director until he died of cancer in 2014.
The 2024 show is also led by co-creative director Joshua Quek, with guidance from former ChildAid creative director Jeremiah Choy.
Amni says: “My role is quite massive because Joshua and I are overseeing everything – from the costumes and multimedia designs to stage designs and the performers.
“We also work very closely with Krish Natarajan, our scriptwriter and director, so that all of our visions are aligned. The goal for us is to ensure each kid has his or her moment to shine even though he or she will be involved in a group item.”
Titled The Dream Emporium, 2024’s ChildAid show is set in a whimsical, fantastical world called the Consortium Of Wishes, where an artificial intelligence (AI) machine sorts the dreams of children around the world. When consortium workers attempt to rewrite the algorithm, the machine malfunctions and causes chaos.
In a bid to look forward to future trends, AI and generative technology will be utilised in aspects such as music creation and costume design.
The 2024 concert will also see the return of 17-year-old pianist Jessie Meng, who was named a Young Steinway Artist in January, the youngest pianist to be selected by famed American piano manufacturer Steinway & Sons.
She first performed at ChildAid at the age of six in 2013, and also when she was 14 in 2021.
“ChildAid constantly reminds me not to take what I have for granted, and how privileged I am to be able to pursue my interests. At the same time, my involvement has ignited my passion in helping the underprivileged,” says the Singaporean, who is also known by her stage name Jessie M.
“Ever since my first ChildAid, when I knew what this event was about, I’ve always hoped to play a part in bridging the gap between people and bringing the community together through music. ChildAid has helped me to stay humble and grounded while giving me the chance to serve the community.”
Another alumnus who will return is Syah Riszuan, a 19-year-old making his name in the music scene as an R&B/pop singer under the moniker Syaz Smooth.
His first performance in ChildAid, at the age of 12 in 2017, “was one of the best moments” of his childhood.
“It was memorable because the song I got to perform was by the legendary Malaysian actor-musician P. Ramlee. I was initially afraid because that was one of my first performances with other young talents. As it turned out, I made a lot of good friends,” says the singer, who also performed in the 2018, 2019 and 2020 editions.
Guitarist Alex Hooi, 22, who was part of ChildAid in 2019 and co-arranger for songs in the 2022 edition, calls it “a defining experience” as a musician.
“Performing for children in need deepened my understanding of music’s impact on lives and inspired me to refine my craft. ChildAid has solidified my dedication to making a positive difference through music.”
He is looking forward to working as a guitarist with Amni in the upcoming concert, adding: “Collaborating with her has been inspiring, as her vision and guidance help elevate the music we’re creating together. I’m looking forward to blending our ideas and ensuring we put on a memorable show.”
Book it / ChildAid 2024 – The Dream Emporium
Where: Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Drive
When: Nov 29, 7.30pm; Nov 30, 2pm (gala show) and 7.30pm
Admission: S$28, S$38 and S$68 via Sistic (go to str.sg/CA24-show or call 6348-5555). UOB cardholders get a 10 per cent discount on all categories. General sales start on Oct 10 at 10am. THE STRAITS TIMES
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