Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2013

Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2013 promises to usher in New Year in style

Scenes of Marina Bay area in Singapore.

The eighth edition of Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2013 promises to usher in the New Year in style.

Jointly presented by Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA), a kaleidoscope of fireworks will illuminate the scenic skyline around the Bay at the stroke of midnight.

The celebration on New Year's Eve begins early - with concerts, film screenings and other fun-filled activities.

These will be spread along the waterfront around Marina Bay, the Esplanade Concourse, and The Promontory @ Marina Bay.

The various activities will lead to a climax comprising a choreographed eight-minute fireworks display.

A URA news release says the display, themed Dari Tanah ini which means "From This Earth", serves to inspire Singaporeans to reflect upon their past as a nation and pay homage to their humble beginnings.

The fireworks display will be accompanied by a musical score written by Cultural Medallion winner, musician and composer Iskandar Ismail.

The piece showcases strong Southeast Asian influences, including traditional musical instruments.

The Dari Tanah ini will be broadcast 'live' on MediaCorp radio station Symphony 92.4FM so that the public can tune in, and watch the fireworks in tandem with the music.

The public can join in the festivities and enjoy the fireworks display from the various vantage points around the Bay.

Viewers can also watch the fireworks presentation 'live' on Channel NewsAsia and MediaCorp Channel 5.

As part of Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2013, members of the public can pen their New Year wishes on wishing spheres at various wishing stations located around Singapore in December.

This aims to connect people from all walks of life through a collective expression of their wishes for the year ahead.

The 20,000 wishing spheres will be set afloat in Marina Bay - the Bay of Hope & Light - to form a spectacular visual arts display.

The festivities also mark the end of a year-long celebration of the 10th anniversary of The Esplanade, which has been based on the theme Celebrating Life - The best of the Human Spirit through the Arts, which paid tribute to 17 key values through its festivals and series.

~News courtesy of Channel Newsasia~