On The Red Dot: Inside The Nation's Largest Live Show - SG60 NDP

From the first-ever Mobile Column that spans air, land and sea, to a sprawling Show Canvas stretching beyond the Padang into Marina Bay—this year’s National Day Parade promises to be bigger, bolder, and more breathtaking than ever.

The transformation begins 129 days before August 9. The Padang and its surroundings are taken over, turning into a massive open-air construction zone. Simultaneously, rehearsals unfolded across Singapore at various SAF camps, where parade participants and dancers diligently mastered every move.

As the countdown picks up pace, all eyes turn to the first Combined Rehearsal—where every moving part of the Parade finally comes together. Kinks are ironed out: land vehicles adjusting to the razor-sharp timing of the RSAF flypast, and a key formation in Act 1 gets reworked to make the choreography pop.

Then comes the next phase—prepping for the crowds. With thousands of students streaming in for the National Education Shows, the team goes into overdrive. Every contingency is considered (yes, even pop star Ben Kheng falling into the Bay!), all while finalising the massive broadcast rollout.

It’s a punishing schedule, with rehearsals week after week. But when the NE crowd roars with excitement, the cast and crew feel the energy bounce back. And slowly, through the sweat and strain, a spectacular show takes shape—one that will light up the nation on August 9.