The National Day Parade (NDP) is one of Singapore’s biggest annual events, but behind the fireworks and performances are the people who make it all happen. From months of rehearsals under the sun to nerves before going live, it takes hard work, teamwork, and heart to bring the show to life.
This year, as Singapore marks SG60, we speak to some of the familiar faces behind the scenes and on stage—seasoned hosts like Joakim Gomez and Sonia Chew, thespians Ebi Shankara and Siti Khalijah, and first-time assistant music director Charlie Lim—about what the Parade means to them personally.
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They share everything from warm-up rituals and sunblock routines to the emotional moments that catch them off guard every year. We also hear from local band Electrico, who return to the NDP stage 16 years after their hit “What Do You See”, and Benjamin Kheng, who performs and directs part of this year’s show.
Whether it’s their first time or their twelfth, the pride, nerves, and joy are all the same. Together, their stories offer a rare look at the effort, energy, and emotion that go into one very special day.
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JOAKIM GOMEZ & SONIA CHEW
HOSTS
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Joakim, you’ve hosted the NDP for 12 years. What does this mean to you personally?
Joakim: For me, it’s a time when Singapore comes together. I know it sounds like a line from an NDP song, but there’s something powerful about that one day where everyone puts aside their stress and worries, and just celebrates together. It’s a rare moment of unity and something I hope we can always strive for as a nation.
What’s your first memory of NDP?
Joakim: Getting the call to host my first NDP in 2012. I was 24 and still serving National Service at the SAF (Singapore Armed Forces) Music & Drama Company. I remember telling my ma’am, “The dancers and singers get to perform—what about the hosts?” She told me to put my name in. When she called back later and said, “Your dream’s coming true”, I actually cried. That moment lives rent-free in my mind. Every year since, I remind myself not to take it for granted. Do it well, and do Singapore proud.
What have been some of your favourite moments thus far?
Sonia: Doing this with Jo makes it extra meaningful—it’s like an extension of our radio show. But beyond that, it’s months of hard work that people don’t always see. Sunburns, off-script rehearsals, changing foundation shades two or three times because we’re constantly under the sun… but it’s the collective effort that makes it special. Everyone pours in so much heart. I’m a big believer of hard work, and that’s why it means so much to me.
Have you ever been moved to tears?
Sonia: Every year. When you’re on stage and the whole crowd sings the National Anthem together, it just hits you—all the feels.
Joakim: Look out for this young performer, Heema Izzati, this year. She covers Charlie Lim’s “Room at the Table”. If you let yourself feel it, you’ll definitely tear up.
What’s in your NDP survival pack?
Sonia: Three types of sunblock: Cream-based, spray-on, and oral. I even spray my hair—it helps preserve the colour.
Joakim: (Nin Jiom) Pei Pa Koa for my throat and lots of towels. I sweat buckets. Kudos to the sound crew and wardrobe team for handling it.
What’s one thing people don’t realise about the NDP?
Joakim: It’s incredibly time-sensitive. Every segment has to hit a precise mark—not a second early or late. Sonia and I are on talkback mics, listening to the show caller while guiding the other hosts in real time. It’s live multitasking at its peak.
Sonia: I think people sometimes underestimate how tough it actually is to host something like NDP. People only see what’s on TV, but there’s so much more going on behind the scenes.
Who likes to disappear during rehearsals?
Sonia: Joakim.
Joakim: I usually go film content or watch the show. If we’re not needed, I like seeing how the show evolves—and how the crowd reacts, especially the Primary 5 and Secondary 3 students. They give you the kind of energy adults don’t. I also check if they’re doing what we taught them—like clapping to the beat with their thundersticks. And yes, they actually do!
Do you have a warm-up playlist?
Sonia: Ironically, no. NDP is the only time I don’t listen to music—I need to keep my lines in my head, not lyrics!
Joakim: Mine’s a weird one: “Scotland the Brave” on bagpipes. I discovered it in 2021 and now it’s my hype track. It feels like a walkout song before a fight. Makes me want to charge out in a kilt... just kidding!
Can you imagine passing the baton to new hosts?
Joakim: Definitely. I look forward to that day—it means I’ve done my part. I’d love to mentor the next generation and pass on what I’ve learned. But I’ve still got a few more good years. I just hope I get to walk away on my own terms.
Sonia: There’ll be new hosts, eventually. But for now, it’s meaningful because Jo and I already have that chemistry, and we’ve got each other’s backs.
What’s one lesson from NDP that you carry into life?
Sonia: That it’s okay to feel nervous even after five years of hosting. The nerves just mean you care. On show day, I’m praying everything goes smoothly, because once we’re live, there’s no going back. Everything’s memorised: No phones, no paper, no teleprompters. It’s intense, but so worth it.
Joakim: My biggest takeaway is teamwork. It’s never about one person. You check your ego, rehearse hard, and make sure everyone shines. And honestly, doing this with a good friend just makes it that much more special.
EBI SHANKARA
HOST
You’ve hosted eight NDPs—do you remember your first?
Yes, it was 2008. I was 20, the youngest ever host at the time, and I entered on a jet ski. I’m not a great swimmer, so I remember thinking, “Please don’t capsize!” But it was also a huge moment for me. I was fresh off winning Vasantham Star and suddenly I was hosting alongside Adrian Pang, Michelle Chong, Jean Danker and Huda Ali. As a theatre actor, Adrian was a big inspiration for me. After the NDP, he cast me in The Full Monty for his theatre company Pangdemonium’s debut.
What is the first song that comes to mind when you think of National Day?
“Home”. But Benjamin Kheng’s song last year, “Not Alone”, is now my ear worm.
What do you like about this year’s NDP?
It’s a good mix this year—past meets present meets future. SG60 is about where we came from, where we are, and where we want to go. We’ve got an amazing line-up of artists from yesteryear and the newer, up-and-coming artists. I like the segment featuring songs from all the various ethnic communities.
What’s something people don’t realise about hosting the NDP?
It’s a beast, a live monster. There are so many moving parts and contingencies. People think you just show up and read a script, but there are Plan As, Bs, Cs and Ds—rain delays, mic issues. You’re hearing showcallers in your ear while also keeping the energy up. Hosting for NDP is not something you can just walk into.
Favourite NDP costume you’ve worn.
That has to be the one in 2015—I had a sequinned jacket designed to look like the Singapore flag. I loved it so much I asked the designer if I could keep it. Last year’s batik print jacket: Took that too! This year’s outfit is colourful. The stage is all white, so the costumes have to be loud enough to pop on camera.
Who’s the biggest softie in the group?
Me. Every time I’m at the Padang, I cry during “Majulah Singapura”. It just hits differently when you’re standing right in front of the National Gallery Singapore and looking at the flag. And when it gets windy and the Singapore flag is waving... I’m getting goosebumps just talking about it.
SITI KHALIJAH
HOST
What’s your go-to pre-show ritual?
I have to physically jump. It’s how I release nervous energy so I don’t go from zero to a hundred when it’s showtime. I also say a little prayer and do my usual theatre warm-ups—you know, weird sounds and face stretches. NDP isn’t just a performance; it’s a full-on crowd of thousands. You’ve got to be switched on the minute your name is called.
Who’s the most high-energy backstage?
Joakim, hands down. He lives for this. We call him Mr NDP. And yes, he also disappears during breaks to film content for TikTok.
What’s on your NDP playlist?
It’s usually whatever Joakim’s blasting. He brings a boombox and turns our mic-up sessions into mini backstage parties. Last year, we had this whole warm-up dance moment while getting into costume. It was such a vibe.
What’s one snack you wish they’d serve backstage?
Crispy kaya toast. Sometimes I just want some old-school kopitiam toast.
Who’s most likely to forget their lines?
Maybe me! Not that I totally blank out, but sometimes, when you’re juggling cue cards and listening to live instructions in your ear, things can get a bit kalang kabut (chaotic). But we always help each other out.
If you could trade roles with anyone, who would it be?
Ben Kheng. Last year, the moment he stepped out, the crowd just went wild. Just for a day, I want to feel what it’s like to have that kind of fan energy. He’s like our local Harry Styles.
Do you feel pressure going live?
Of course. Especially now with social media—people are quick to catch every slip-up. But my theatre background helps. It gives me the stamina and the presence to carry through. NDP is like theatre, but amplified tenfold. And I love it.
If you weren’t hosting, how would you spend National Day?
Book a room high up at Swissôtel The Stamford Singapore, invite friends and family, and watch the parade both on TV and through the window. You get the show and the skyline. I always look up at the hotels when I’m performing and think: Wah, that’s the view I want next time!
CHARLIE LIM
ASSISTANT MUSIC DIRECTOR & PERFORMER
Is this your first time working behind the scenes at NDP?
Yes, it’s my first time as Assistant Music Director. I’ve performed before in 2018, when I wrote and produced the theme song, and again in 2020. But this is the first time I’ve seen the whole machine in motion from start to finish. It’s been a really enriching experience.
What’s different about this role compared to being a performer?
I’ve had to step back a lot. It’s not about putting on my own show, it’s about helping execute the vision of Music Director, Dr Sydney Tan. This is his tenth NDP. He’s been a mentor to me and I respect his work a lot.
How did your song “Here We Are” come together?
Funny thing is, I didn’t even know I’d be singing on it. I submitted a demo and it got picked. I originally wrote it as a duet with someone from a different generation, and Kit Chan felt like a natural choice. She heard the demo and immediately connected with the last line: “This is what home means to me.” It felt like a nod to her own song, “Home”. She came into the studio and nailed it in two takes.
You’ve seen a lot of NDPs. What makes this year special?
Visually, it’s stunning. I’ve never seen a show this cohesive. And the lineup is so diverse—Rahimah Rahim, Ramli Sarip, Yung Raja, Abang Sapau, Shye, Tay Kewei—all representing different eras and sounds. It’s a real kaleidoscope of who we are as a culturally diverse nation.
What moment gets you the most emotional?
I always love Act 2. This year, we’re seeing artists with disabilities have their work turned into floats and boats. It’s incredibly moving. There’s also a massive projection on the UOB Plaza. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone’s reaction to that.
Is it chaotic backstage?
It runs like clockwork. Everyone, from the artists to the minders and the military, knows exactly where they need to be and when. You eat, rush to makeup, change, then wait… and repeat. But honestly, there’s no drama—just a really supportive, professional vibe.
Who is your backstage buddy?
I hung out with Ben Kheng quite a bit. We’ve known each other for some time really. The other day, we were looking at photos from like 14 years ago and moaning about how old we are. We’ve both had quite an interesting experience this run, being more than just performers.
Favourite snack you wish they served at rehearsals.
Kueh pie tee. It’ll never happen—it’s too much work—but a man can dream.
One lesson you’re taking away from this year?
I’ve become really good at colour-coding in Excel. Jokes aside, I’ve seen how people from all departments show up, week after week, giving their 100 per cent. Watching how the veterans lead with calm and clarity—that’s something I really admire.
Do you feel proud to be part of all this?
It’s a bit surreal, honestly. It’s a huge honour to perform for the people running the country, and sometimes even chat with them. Having done this a few times now, I really do appreciate the opportunity. With everything going on, it felt important to strike a balance between reflection and celebration when putting the song together.
BENJAMIN KHENG
GO LIVE MUSICAL FILM DIRECTOR, COMPOSER & PERFORMER
How did a duet with the legendary Rahimah Rahim come about?
Boo Jun Feng, our creative director, had the idea of having me out at sea while Rahimah performs at the Padang, to build this sense of cross-generational and cross-cultural connection. I’ve worked with Kak Rahimah about 11 or 12 years ago, and when her name came up [as someone who would perform “Not Alone” with me], I thought it was beautiful. At first, we were both a little apprehensive—it’s not really her usual joget-joget style of music, and she was worried she wouldn’t do the song justice. But the moment we heard her sing it, we knew. Her voice brought this comforting, mama bear warmth. It was exactly what the song needed.
Did you both record the song together?
Yeah, we did a test recording to figure out our parts. Charlie Lim helped co-produce it, too. The more we worked on it, the more it grew on us. Hearing her sing those lyrics, it was so moving. I never imagined I’d be writing lyrics for a legend like Rahimah Rahim. She just brings this texture and feeling of home that’s so powerful.
You’re also directing the pre-parade film. Any hidden Easter eggs?
There’s plenty, but without revealing too much, there’s a lot of very iconic Singapore sounds that will either elicit fondness or trauma. Think school bells, the karang guni man horn, and sounds of transport. The film kind of looks at us travelling, and the constant need as Singaporeans to progress and move.
Who’s more diva: Ben the director or Ben the performer?
I’m not a diva, maybe just a Karen [laughs]. But the anxiety as a director is way more heightened; I’m really on my toes a lot more. I feel a lot more confident when I’m in the director’s seat. Because then I feel like I’m fighting for narratives and stories that are not just mine; there’s more at stake. I’m trying to serve not just the people who are part of the team, or the people this project is meant for, but also the story itself. I’m just very grateful to play a dual role this year. It feels a lot richer. I don’t feel like I’m just doing a song-and-dance; I get to be a part of sacrificing something more.
What’s in your NDP survival kit?
Cooling wipes. You know, those minty ones that feel like aircon for your body? The key is timing—wipe down right before the performance and you stay cool the whole time. I also have this Thai herbal inhaler. It’s like smelling salts for your soul—really jolts your system awake. Super handy, especially when you’re performing on a boat.
It’s not National Day unless…
We get good memes out of the parade. Also singing the national anthem. When I went to the NDP as a Primary 5 kid, I remember just yelling the anthem like crazy. It’s the one time it’s cool to sing “Majulah Singapura”.
What’s been the most heartwarming moment for you?
Definitely hearing 25,000 kids scream my song. You don’t register it at the moment because you’re focused on performing, but when you watch the videos after, man, it hits you. It’s surreal and really humbling. It makes me feel like I get to be part of something that’s bigger than me.
Do you feel like you’ve made a difference?
Charlie Lim—who wrote this year’s song—often asks, “Does this even move the needle?” And honestly, moments like these make me believe that yeah, we’re doing something that matters. Even with NDP, we’re shaping culture in a meaningful way.
ELECTRICO
PERFORMERS
What have you guys been up to since your last public performance?
David: We’ve been a bit quiet. But in 2020, we dropped an EP and did a live session at Pasir Panjang Power Station featuring the B-sides we personally loved but had never performed. I also made my first short film last year. It was in competition at the Singapore International Film Festival.
Desmond: I’m still at 24OWLS and 19sixtyfive, the music and events company behind music events like The Alex Blake Charlie Sessions that’s happening again this December.
William: And I’m still teaching drums at Academy of Rock.
How did your return to the NDP stage come about?
David: I got a call from Dr Sydney Tan who said they wanted to bring back “What Do You See” for this year’s parade. With all the global uncertainty, they wanted to reignite that spark of national pride. We said yes instantly. Now that we’re older and parents, the song hits differently.
What does it feel like to perform it again 16 years later?
Desmond: In 2009, it was a fresh song. Now it’s grown—it feels like a tree with deep roots. It’s crazy how many people remember it, too. They come up to us and say they love the song.
David: The lyrics land harder now. The line “what do you see” really makes you think about your children’s future. We’ve all grown up, we’ve become parents, and we have a deeper stake in what Singapore becomes. The song means more to us now.
How have rehearsals been?
David: A bit nerve-wracking at first, but over time, we’ve really come to appreciate and enjoy the process. We’re more mature now, approaching it with clarity and gratitude. Even during rehearsals, performing for almost 30,000 people singing your song—it feels like a once-in-a-lifetime moment, every week.
We hear you’re performing another NDP song too?
David: Yes, I’ll be singing “The Road Ahead” while perched on a scissor lift that rises 10m. It’s the ultimate 50th birthday gift for me!
Most emotional part of the parade?
David: The Pledge and National Anthem combo. It always gets me. The gravity of the events that come before that usually makes it more profound.
If you had to swap roles at NDP, who would you want to be?
David: The President.
William: The pilot flying the F-15SG fighter jet.
Desmond: A tank driver.
Make-up Artist & Hairstylist for Sonia Chew BENJI OO
Make-up Artist & Hairstylist for Joakim Gomez RICK YANG
Make-up Artist & Hairstylist for Ebi Shankara, Siti Khalijah, Benjamin Kheng SHA SHAMSI
Make-up Artist & Hairstylist for Electrico, Charlie Lim GREGO OH