77th Street

Theme for NDP 2011: The Singapore Spirit

“the determination that makes us press on” in the face of tough times and the confidence that Singapore will prevail.

Scene 1

Grandfather: (resting on a rocking chair in the living room)

*Granddaughter enters the room with the maid*

Grandfather: Ger ah, how come you’re home so early today?

Granddaughter: Today got ndp celebration. Teacher gave us a lot of goodies and we sang many very nice songs and also we did the fun dance!

*Granddaughter started singing (out of tune) and dancing the fun dance with lollipop in one hand*

Granddaughter: Deep in my heart, I just know, right from the start…

Grandfather: Aiyo, ger ah! SHHH… Ah Gong is not feeling well and needs to rest.

Granddaughter: But ah gong, I have one question for you.

Grandfather: Hmmm…?

Granddaughter: My teacher said Singapore is very different in the past. How is it like?

Grandfather: That’s a very long story dear. Our forefathers went through a lot of hardships. If not for their determination and hard work, Singapore wouldn’t be where it is standing today. When I was young…

*The stage light darkens*

Scene 2

Son: Ma, its raining again! I have to walk so far to school. Can I skip school today? Please?

Mother: No dear. You still have to go. Go in your slippers and put your shoes in your bag. Don’t forget to bring the umbrella as well.

*Father enters the room*

Father: Son, here’s your pocket money.

Son: Pa, why so little?

Father: Sigh… Business is bad.

Mother: Dear, I think we’re running out of rice again.

*Father shakes head and walks into the room*

Mother: Boy ah, better go to school now.

*Boy leaves the house with umbrella in one hand*

*Mother closes the door and walks towards the bathroom (there is a queue waiting)*

Mother: Aiyo, with so many people living under one roof, the toilet is always occupied. So troublesome!

Scene 3

Granddaughter: Wah ah gong, last time there’s no transportation to school? And there’s so many people...