Blooms Performed by Diverse Abilities Dance Collective (DADC) and Maya Dance Theatre

Dancers from the Diverse Abilities Dance Collective (DADC) and the Maya Dance Theatre will present a dance performance, titled “Blooms”, which is an inclusive dance performance that celebrates the beauty of diversity and the blossoming of artistry. Dancers of all abilities and backgrounds will come together to create a vibrant and harmonious tapestry of movement and expression in this captivating performance, as they represent a wide spectrum of talents and experiences, reflecting the rich tapestry of humanity. Each performer brings their unique style and perspective, showcasing the infinite possibilities of the human spirit nurtured through love, kindness, and respect.

The performance is artistically directed by Kavitha Krishnan and choreographed by Shahrin Johry, with music by R. Raghavendra and Kailin Yong. “Blooms” was also recently performed at Solo International Performing Arts (SIPA) 2023, with support from the National Arts Council and the Goh Chok Tong Enable Fund.

About Diverse Abilities Dance Collective (DADC)

DADC is a community initiative that seeks to create a co-existing space for persons with disabilities and art-makers. The team develops dance techniques and skills related to employment in the arts, such as costume management, administration, and teaching at preschools.

About Maya Dance Theatre

Maya Dance Theatre (MDT) is a non-profit professional dance theatre company that has carved out a niche for itself in the Singapore dance scene, through creating works with narratives encapsulating social consciousness and social stories. Pivoted on a social theme, each multi-disciplinary production encourages meaningful conversation with audiences and artists.

Duet by Strawberry Story

Born prematurely and blind since birth, Wai Yee is a content writer, sportswoman and environmentalist. She is part of SG Food Resue, a group that collects unwanted food items from grocery stores, then sorts and shares vegetables that can still be eaten to reduce food wastage. She went into the working world after secondary school to support herself and her family as her father had kidney problems. Some of the difficulties she faced were learning how to be more confident and how to interact with others. She wanted to live her life and be who she is, contributing to society.

Ivni has been a musician since year 1998, as a guitarist performing gigs with various bands. Released an E.P. in 1999 with a band called Helm’s Key, playing their own heavy metal originals. He started exploring commercialised pop music with his acoustic guitar, performing at various events, corporate functions, and weddings. Ventured into playing drums in 2011 and achieved Grade-5 from Trinity College of London. In April 2020, he started Strawberry Story and formed a Facebook and YouTube channel.

About Strawberry Story

Strawberry Story is a duet formed by two visually impaired artists, Ivni – lead musician, and Wai Yee – lead singer. The duo is known for their basking experience and has been making music on the streets, in ballrooms, at parties, and on stages across Singapore. Through their performances, Ivni and Wai Yee have inspired many of all ages to remain resilient and cling to hope despite today’s challenging climate.

Mr Tan Puay Kern, Vice Chairman
Mr Tan Puay Kern is Vice President of Security at Marina Bay Sands Pte Ltd. He has served with Community Chest Committee since 2000 and is currently a Vice Chairman. Mr Tan also holds the position of Vice Chairman of the National Crime Prevention Council.

Mr Sim Gim Guan, Member
Mr Sim Gim Guan is currently the Executive Director of the Singapore National Employers Federation and Secretary in the Community Chest Committee. Previously, Mr Sim served as the Chief Executive of NCSS, where he led various initiatives such as the first Quality of Life Study on individuals in need and the nationwide public education campaigns on disability awareness and stigma on mental health conditions.

Mr Puvanaratnam s/o Ariaratnam, Member
Mr Puvan Ariaratnam has served in the Education sector in various capacities. He is currently the Director overseeing Education and Career Guidance at the Ministry of Education. As a member of the NCSS Board and the Community Chest Committee, he has engaged in getting youths involved in community service and worked on volunteer management.

Ms Audrey Tan Hwee Gek, Member
Ms Audrey Tan is Senior Director of the Sector Planning and Development Division at the Ministry of Social and Family Development. She has also been a member of the Community Chest Committee since 2018.

Ms Lee Mui Ling, Member
Ms Lee Mui Ling is currently the Chief Operating Officer of ServiceSG in the Public Service Division. ServiceSG seeks to integrate the delivery of services across public agencies to serve citizens better. It also builds deeper service delivery capabilities within the Public Service to raise overall service standards. Ms Lee was a member of the Community Chest Committee from 2016-2022.