Tuesday, December 30, 2008
It's That Time Of The Year.....But Then Again
I sleep very late ever since I came back to Malaysia. Lately, deep into the ungodly hours, I seem to become emo because I realize that my time in Malaysia is also coming to an end. While everyone is busy saying "It's that time of the year again!", I would be saying "Not that time of the year again....", because goodbyes have always been hard for me.
6 more days before I would be back in Singapore.......
I guess I should be happy since I was complaining about not dancing for a long period of time, but frankly, I don't. I sort of got used to the life in Malaysia, the one I got before I went to Singapore to study. Breakfast with family/friends; going out; late night "yum cha" (tea time) at mamak stalls; etc. Furthermore these few days have been crazy, but in a good way.
My mum took one whole week off from work to clear her leaves (can you believe she still hasn't clear all of them?), and my whole family have been going out almost everyday. We shopped around for the new school year and as well as for the upcoming CNY. On a side note, I am very pleased with my 4 sets of CNY clothes and my new shoes. This time round, I was the one who chose all my clothes (and my mum was the one busy swapping her credit card. Heh.) and I am happy with the clothes I chose.
I also went out with my friends on Christmas Eve, because it was also my close friend's birthday. We went for karaoke, something I haven't done in a REALLY REALLY long time (I was surprised I still could remember the lyrics, though my singing is not as good as last, say.....last year?). After that, my friends took me to a pub (!!!). I was kinda excited and worried and the same time because I never been to a pub before and I don't know what to expect. So now I know. Heh.
Tomorrow is New Year's Eve and I'm very excited! Going for a dinner with my family, but I am leaving halfway to meet my friends up in KL Sungai Wang for the annual countdown!!! The countdowns in Malaysia is always a big event of the year and I always wanted to go, and now I got to! Whoo!
It's very different than the countdowns in Singapore, because the government actually blocked off the streets going towards the KL city so there would be a large MEGA-PARTY on the streets where ppl would be goofing around and dance! This is something you definitely couldn't get in Singapore.
2008 has been a great year. I would go so far as to say it's probably the best year of my life up till now. I have a good class, 08S6E! (I hope my class will be even greater over the next year!); I started dancing, which became my passion, and through it, I made alot of great friends, got to know a great bunch of seniors, knew a bunch of my favorite dance mates, exposed to a few awesome instructors, and performed in front of a thousand ppl! (when it comes to dance, the list goes on, really, but I should stop myself); I really worked hard for Promos and did okay (for my standard, that is. Haha); and lots more... I think I couldn't finish listing them even if I want to.
I hope 2009 will be even better.
But before that, I would need to say farewell to my family and friends in Malaysia. I'm afraid this time would be even harder for me. On the other hand, I am looking forward to what's in store for me in Singapore next year.
It's that time of the year again....
P.S Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to everyone!
Friday, December 19, 2008
Another Side, Another Story
In fact, as I'm typing now, I am actually using a comp from a Cyber Cafe, more commonly known as LAN centres to my Singaporean friends. I still prefer the privacy of my own comp though.
9 days have gone by since I left Singapore, and, I must say--
I REALLY, REALLY, REALLY MISS DANCING!
Apparently, I don't know any dance studios in Malaysia and there's certainly none around my area. So now I have to go through the headache of asking around for dance studios, with the uncertainty of the dance standard of that studio. How I miss going for O School open classes....
When I came back to Malaysia then I realized the convenience of the PE studio back at school. Having a studio to practice dance anytime sure is a boon, something I didn't realize till I don't have that convenience anymore, for now at least. I don't have the space and a large enough mirror to dance back at home, so that means I haven't danced for more than a week already!!! I'm afraid that by the time I get back to Singapore, my dance standard will deteriorate so much that I'll have trouble catching up in open classes!!!
I can't believe I've missed Foreign Bodies' dance concert and I am going to miss Danzation! I heard Danzation is going to be damn dope! Argh!
I also checked O School website and I realized Ryan is taking over Daniel's Hip Hop II Open Classes! Argh! I kinda think things couldn't have got any better when I'm away.
And I'm missing out on the Converse warehouse sale!!! AHHH!!! Converse is my favourite sneakers brand!
Ok, enough of emo-ing bout dance.
You know, life in Malaysia is like a 180 degrees different from my life in Singapore. In fact, it's totally different! In Singapore, I'm living alone; back in Malaysia, I'm living with my family. In Singapore, I danced very frequently; here, I don't at all. Singapore has no night life; Malaysia sure does.
Things are quite laid back in Malaysia, not as hectic and as fast paced as life in Singapore, which is quite a good thing. I sleep like a pig nowadays and I eat like 5 meals per day or something. And if you have eaten Malaysian food, you know Malaysian food tastes way better than the food in Singapore. I think I have put on some weight in the 9 days I'm here. Maybe by the time I got back, I would have trasformed into a pig. Haha. Anyway, I'm not too worried bout the weight gain, because more fat would translate into more muscle once I start working out again. xD
But I think the best part of coming back to Malaysia is being with my family and friends again. I missed them alot when I was back in Malaysia. My Malaysian friends are like totally different from my cheerful and innocent Singaporean friends, so it's a different experience hanging out with them. In fact, some of my Malaysian friends are what ppl might call 'ah beng' or 'gangsters', but they are actually not. Looks can be deceiving.
They say the grass is always greener on the other side. I guess I sorta feel this way. Now that I'm back in Malaysia, I miss my Singapore friends, especially my dancemates! You guys know who you are. (Btw, Nik, you better remember and practice the "Spotlight" choreo or I'll kill you. I really wanna learn that choreo because I watched the video for like the 148845759340th time already, and the song just keeps playing in my head since recital)
I guess I'll stop here for now. Hope you guys enjoyed a look into another part of my life -- the Malaysian side.
Another side, another story.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
O School Recital 2008!
I apologize for taking such a long time to come up with this post. I was waiting for all the pictures and videos to be uploaded so I could give a blow-by-blow account of this amazing experience. Furthermore, I didn't have the time and access to blog for the past few days anyway.
Without further ado, let's get it started!
Before the show
We had a technical run and full-dress run as a kind of rehearsal for throughout the whole Monday afternoon. We got to watch each other's completed items. We also got to watch the instructor's item for the first time! We were blown away by it! I knew the instructor's item will be THE dopest item of them all.
After the runs, it was time for make up and dinner! Of course, there was alot of cam whoring going on--
















Around 5.30 pm, there was already a queue of ppl waiting outside the convention hall. And the show doesn't even starts till 7.30 pm! These ppl totally hardcore!
At 6.45pm, everyone was to meet on stage for one last photo shoot. The OSchool still haven't upload it on their webpage yet, so I guess we all have to wait for the pics. After the photo shoot, then everyone is supposed to take their places backstage.
The door opened at 7pm sharp, and the ppl started flowing in to take their places. When I peeped and saw such a large audience, I was starting to feel very nervous. I was damn afraid that I would screw up and embarrassed myself on stage! It was my first dance performance (no, that stupid Change concert doesn't count!). Ryan said all 1000 tickets were sold out, so I was getting very stressed at the time.
While the audience was eagerly anticipating the performance, everyone backstage was giving each other encouragement and hugs, even though not everyone knows each other. I guess it was moments like these that shows how friendly most dancers are, and perhaps that's why dancers formed a close-knit community in Singapore.
Thanks Diana and Ie-Ching for the hugs because I really needed them badly!
Just when the show was about to start, all the dancers at my wing made a woosh before we all took our places. Before we know it, the show has already started.
Show time!
First up was Ann Tan's Hip Hop item. I really liked her item alot because I think she put alot of effort in choreography as well as training her dancers. Her dedication to her group of dancers was so strong that she didn't eat for the previous day, so she ended up being hospitalized for gastric attack on the recital day. But still, her item was dope!
She called Ryan in the middle of a briefing and Ryan was scolding her through the phone:"Eh, you stay at home and don't come! Your dancers are all very good already, what more do you want?" But she still came to watch her item then she left shortly afterwards. That's what I call a truely caring instructor.
An An's Hip Hop item was next!
Then comes another one of my favourite items -- Fredy's Street Jazz! I really liked the choreo and the feel of the item. Very sexy! If you watch closely, you can see Razmi, which is the big-sized guy who danced even sexier than a girl! Not surprisingly, he won't the Best Dancer Award later on that night.
Around this time, my heart was beating so fast that it almost bursts! We were at the side curtains preparing to chiong right in, because our item was next!
Presenting to you Daniel's Hip Hop item!
As I mentioned before, I was the one being lifted. Nik and the two Julians was lifting me. If you look closely, you can a guy wearing a glove and has a spiky hair. Well, that's me alright! I was so nervous during the show that I screwed up a few steps but I managed to recover quickly. At least I didn't just die there and screw up our months of hard work. Phew.
When the emcee announced it was our item, I was pretty scared. But by the time I know it, our item was over! Our months of hardwork is just for that few minutes on stage. I felt quite glad when I heard the applause from the audience.
After our item, it was Ryan and Gin's LA/Lyrical Hip Hop item! It was quite dope (which is what you would expect from the 2 dopest instructors in O School)!
Around this time, my recital group was cam-whoring in the rehearsal studio downstairs before we went inside the convention hall to watch the rest of the performance (Though we weren't supposed to. Heh.).





In the meantime, there was a special item performed by Ryan and this another dope girl (I dunno what's her name, lol). But unfortunately, the video wasn't uploaded to Youtube yet, so you guys just got to wait.
Note: After this point in time, I wasn't really sure of the arrangement of the items, so I'll try my best to recall the correct order.
If I wasn't wrong, Ryan's Lyrical Jazz item was up next. But the video also cannot be found on Youtube, which is a pity because this item was damn touching to watch. The dancers were all very professional and I salute them for that.
Popping was next (I think), which is probably the most entertaining item of the recital (other than the instrucotr's item, of course). Feast your eyes!
Nice right? Ben's choreographies always captivates me.
There was an interval after this, which is when I went to look for my friends that came to support me.
After the interval, there was a battle segment, which was carried forward as a tradition from last year's recital. Meredith Kerr went on stage to battle! Yes, THAT Meredith! The dope Hip Hop dancer from the US! The battle was K.O Night style! Check out her battle video--
Not surprisingly, she won the battle. She got a cap which she threw towards the audience. I want it too!!!
Daniel's House item was afterwards--
Followed by KH's Bboy item!
Then followed by another one of my favourite items -- An An, Gin, and Xue Hui's Reggae item!
But the highlight of the whole recital must be the instructor's item -- "One week in O School"! The whole item had a storyline about the instructor's lives in OSchool, which is obvious from the title! I really, really loved this item! Totally dope! The crowd was going crazy throughout the whole item!
This item was so long that it was split into 6 parts.
Part 1 -- Monday: Daniel' Hip Hop and Ryan's Lyrical Jazz
The first "class" was meant to signify Daniel's Hip Hop II Open Class.The next one was Ryan's Lyrical Jazz Open Class. I liked how the instructor imitate the open class thing. But when I watched the item, I was suddenly reminded of Daniel becuase I'm very sure that the first choreo was choreographed by Daniel.
Part 2 -- Tuesday: Trianing Day
Now we know why OSchol closes on Tuesdays. LOL.
Part 3 & 4 -- Wednesday: Fredy's Street Jazz and An An's Hip Hop
Part 5 -- Thursday & Friday: Flying off to LA
For me, this part is the dopest part of all! They "flew" to LA to meet Carol! Carol mae a surprise appearance after going to the US for a long time. And everyone was laughing at the "Classes cancelled" part because it was part of an inside joke -- Ryan's and Gin's Open Classes on Thursday always tend to be cancelled because they always have something on.
When I was watching this part, I could not help but wish maybe Daniel will somehow pop out of nowhere and perform with them. Sigh, going through the recital without him feels kinda weird sometimes.
Anyway, I like the KH and Gin's duet. Very lovely! And I like her song and choreo to "Spotlight" by Jennifer Hudson. And I can't believe she taught the choreo for LA Open Class last night! Argh! I wanna learn!!! Nik, you must teach me when I come back or I'll kill you. Haha.
Part 6 -- Saturday: KH's Bboy, Ben's Popping, Fong's Locking, and Daniel's House
Sadly, the video taht was uploaded didn't have Daniel's House choreo.
Overall, the instructor's item was obviously the dopest of them all! I really like it alot.
After their item was done, it was the finale curtain call. There was no ideo of it on Youtube, but it was kinda messy. There were too many ppl on stage. But the sight of a few hundred dancers swarming from the audience to the stage must be spectacular. Heh.
After the show
When the curtain call was over, I went to meet my friends and took photos with them.
To Wilson, Tack Kian, Nic. Tay, Terrance, Andrew, Su Hui, Jia Wei, Chris, Joleen, Hui Xian, Brian, Sean, Ester, Shino and those who I can't remember now, thank you guys for coming and watch! I also met some of my dancemates that I haven't seen in a long time, like Sean, Ester and Shino.
My recital group mentioned there might be a supper, but in the end, there wasn't one because everyone went off with their friends. I guess we can meet again next time.
Final thoughts
Wow, this is probably the longest post I have ever typed. Took me 3 freaking hours.
To my recital mates, I am going to miss hanging out with you guys because you guys are a very fun bunch to dance with. I feel really proud to be in this recital, and even lucky to be in Daniel's item. I hope we did Daniel proud!
I had lots of fun during this period when I was involved in the recital. I will definitely look forward to joining next year's one, even though I will have A-levels. I danced through my Promos this year, so I definitely can dance through A-Levels.
O School Recital 2009, watch out! We're coming!
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
End Of The Ride
Daniel's sudden departure a week ago is still fresh in my mind. I remembered the pictures we took and the supper we had. I wonder how he's doing now.
Between juggling open classes, recital rehearsals, packing my things, and studying for SAT, I still had to write cards for my seniors. I have quite a few seniors that played a large role in my JC life, as you guys would have known. Some of them are Malaysian Scholars, but not suprisingly, most of them are dancers. I had to write ten cards in total, each about 3 pages, so it took me quite a long time to finish writing them.
The night the recital was over, I returned to boarding school and finish packing up all my stuff. By the time I was done, it was already well into the wee hours of the morning. I spent my Tuesday afternoon finish writing the cards before heading to the MAD senior chalet. I had to drag 2 big luggages from Bukit Timah to Pasir Ris, and one of the wheels on my luggage was broken halfway through. It took me 2 and a half freaking hours to reach the chalet.
My only reason of going there is to spend my last night with my favourite seniors. I like chatting with my seniors into late night, and I am going to miss the conversations like these. I couldn't really sleep because the bed I slept on wasn't really comofortable; in the end I only slept for around 4 hours. Despite all the trouble, I think it's worth it.
I realized in the morning that I left my passport in the boarding school. My first thought when I realized this was "WTF???!!!! I knew something was missing!!!". I had to call a cab from the chalet to the baording school, then to Lavender Street, where I was taking my coach. The bloody cab ride costed 27 bucks in the end.
Now, I'm back at home with my lovely family. The rollercoaster ride is officially over. Like most rollercoaster rides, it's the fun and exhilliration that makes one to want to take the ride over and over again.
P.S Walao, I am itching to dance!
Sunday, December 7, 2008
The Eve Of OSchool Recital
Actually, before this, I didn't really feel very high or extremely excited over it. I just taught of it like another performance. Then one of my friends sms-ed me to ask about his tickets, then I suddenly remembered I have quite a number of ppl coming to watch me. It hit me that I gotta put on my best for tomorrow because I don't want to disappoint them by making silly mistakes on stage.
Today's rehearsal at Singapore Poly was kinda nerve-racking, if you ask me. Daniel is in LA now (if you didn't know that, you really should read blogs more often), so Ryan took over for the blocking. But the thing is, he doesn't really "get" our item. Sure, he gave us comments on our dancing, but in terms of stage blocking and dance steps, I don't think he really know how to improve them. Sigh. If only Sun Ho didn't want Daniel too badly.
And Singapore Poly's "Convential Hall" is actually like some gigantic theatre la. It's MUCH bigger than my school's auditorium, which is actually already quite gigantic, and it has so many facilities! The seats are so comfy somemore! It even has a rehearsal studio and a lift in the basement!
We went through the finale item first and it was kinda fun. With ppl jus swarming around back and forth, it was quite comical actually. Those of you coming tomorrow will know what I'm talking about. Lol.
Then it was our blocking. I screwed up quite alot during our blocking because my newly-bought cargo pants was too freaking big and I didn't have a belt with me. So I danced with a very loose and baggy cargo pants, and it was almost dropped down
After that, Ryan gave us comments before we went to self-prac at the rehearsal studio in the basement. I am going to miss these moments that I spent with my recital mates once it's all over.
You know, I never EVER regretted get into Daniel's item. In fact, I wasn't even supposed to be involved in the first place. Yes, our choreo is not as nice as some others, but I think concept-wise, our item is better. C,mon, it even has a storyline! No other item has that! My only regret was that we didn't organize enough self-prac and we are not VERY synchro, like say..... Ann Tan's recital item. But I think we did okay, and I will treasure this experience.
I guess I never really felt excited because I have alot to do these few days. Busy preparing for SAT, packing up my belongings, doing a surprise for some of my seniors...... I guess I was too caught up in other things before realizing that the Recital is coming to an end. Now that it's tomorrow, I am getting very excited, nervous, and happy at the same time! I hope our item will be great tomorrow, rather than just good, because I think it can be.
One more day to OSchool Recital! C'mon guys, let's do this!
Friday, December 5, 2008
Premonition
Daniel's Hip Hop item group photo
Candid shot!
Proper shot
All the guys
The gals!
Waiting for Daniel at the lobby


3 MORE DAYS TO OSCHOOL RECITAL!
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Farewell, Daniel
This was what Daniel said during the start of the recital practice tonight (as in Wednesday). It was totally out of the blue. Everyone of us was either shocked or surprised at what he said. We just sat there and exchanged puzzled looks before Daniel explained that he received an urgent project offer to go to LA and NY, USA, and he will be staying in the US for a few years.
The thing is, he'll be leaving for the US at 7am, Thursday. By the time you're reading this, he would be a few thousand feet on the air, making his way on board a flight to Los Angeles.
His departure was totally sudden. I was quite taken aback when I realized my closest instructor is leaving and I'll never get to see him again for at least a few years. When Regina, my OG mate, took me to OSchool for the first time, guess which class was my first? It was Daniel's Hip Hop I open class. I was impressed by his choreo and his teaching style right from the start. In other words, I was hooked.
For the next few weeks, I religously attended his open class till I saved enough to signed up for his Hip Hop I course. Then it was Hip Hop II course. Hip Hop III course was next. By the time I knew it, it was time for recital already. I remembered asking Daniel to let me join the recital, which he said yes without even a blink of an eye. I remembered that time when Daniel took my dance clique to eat at the Taiwanese restaurant and tried to stuff us to death.
Then I remembered that this will be all I have.
After he made that announcement, we took some time to take some pictures and joke around before we practice for a while. We ended earlier than expected. We decided to ask Daniel along for one last supper with us before he'll fly off.
We head over to Victoria Food Court around the area. While we were having supper, Daniel was telling anecdotes about his journey of becoming a choreographer. He told us how he learned diiferent genres, how OSchool came to be etc.
I wished time would just freeze at that moment. I am content with that moment where we, a group consisting of close to 20 ppl, huddled around a table meant for half that size, and listening to Daniel sharing his interesting life stories. But I have learnt over and over again that time waits for no one.
Before we left, we made a woosh. Everyone was turning their heads when we cheered loudly. We also took one last photo before going off. At this point in time, I just felt a little sad, but not to the extent of grief. I guess the shock had numbed my feelings, and I didn't really feel anything at all.
It's like being shot by a gun. First, there is the hit and recoil. After the moment of recoil and shock pass off, then the pain will come. I only really feel the grief when I reached my room. I did what most humans would do in this situation--
I cried.
Ie-Ching called me after I told her about Daniel's sudden departure. I realized that there'll be no more open classes, no more courses, and no more of his jokes. That was when tears started flowing down. You may wonder why would a 17 year-old guy would cry, but remember that I am just human. I cry when I am (extremely) sad. In fact, I usually don't cry even when I'm sad.
The worst part is, we have to move on to the recital without Daniel. He won't be there when the curtain calls. It's all the more the reason why we must do our best.
Though rightfully speaking, we shouldn't feel bad that Daniel is leaving, because Daniel is taking a big leap for his career. It's kinda selfish to wish Daniel would stay, some ppl say. Instead, we should be happy. But looking at the reality, we are losing our closest instructor and Daniel is leaving his friends and family behind. Where's the joy in that? I think it's only fair we let a moment of grief to ourselves, before wishing Daniel good luck.
Daniel did mention he'll be back on the 16th December for Christmas before leaving again on the 26th December. This time, he won't be back for years. He said that he'll contact us to meet up with us if he has the time. Unfortunately, I would be back in Malaysia by then. I don't feel like going back to Malaysia, then I remembered that my family is eagerly waiting for my return and how much I missed them. Daniel's departure couldn't have come at a worse time.
I really, really, really will miss Daniel. Maybe I could meet him if I eventually made it to the US to study. I hope we'll meet again soon.
Farewell, Daniel.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
New York Hip Hop
I love my recital group!
Full-dress rehearsal on Sunday was quite well done, in my opinion, though technically we didn't wear our costumes because we didn't have any yet. Ryan told us that our item was "much neater and tighter from before", but he told us to improve more because our item "is probably the most challenging item out of all -- the one with storyline".
Since our story involves prisoners (don't ask me why, you guys will see it on the actual day), we need to ask "like we are rowdy prisoners". He told us that we need to be in character. I'll keep that in mind. After that, we had extra practice, not that I mind. In fact, I like it. Haha. Anyway, Daniel told us to think of prisoners we are, just to get us into character.
At first, I thought that if I am ever going to be imprisoned, then it must be I am a murderer or something. Then I realized that if I am ever going to commit any crime, it's going to be so well-planned that I could never ever be caught. So it's kinda hard for me to think of a character. In the end, I've decided that I would just be some normal gangster and get on with it.
Oh, oh, oh! Daniel added this damn cool gangfight scene! We had quite alot of fun rehearsing it. You guys have to stay tuned to find out. =)
After the practice, we went to have dinner together. What was supposed to be a dinner soon became a bitching session about our ex-recital mate, which quitted recently. But we also talked about other stuff like last year's recital. It was fun hanging out with them.
Extra practice on the coming Wednesday night. Daniel said he's going to take us to the new studio to practice! Yay! I think we are probably the first few which gets to use the new venue! Cool, right! Can't wait for it!
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I attended Sheila's New York Hip Hop Open Class at Studio Wu today (as in Monday). It's been a long since the Street Jazz sabbatical, and I was eager to learn something new from her. I had the one day free pass thing that I got from the sabbatical.
Her choreo was quite fast and it was actually quite lyrical too. She used the song "Moving Mountains" by Usher for today's class. I can catch most of the steps, but the execution of some moves were a problem because the music was fast. There are times when I just stoned there because I momentarily forgotten the steps, but most of the time, I can manage to recover.
One thing about her class that's special is that she actually bring forward her choreos from week to week, almost as though it was a course, though it's actually an open class. I really want to attend the next one, but then I remembered that I'll be back in Malaysia. I don't have the cash anyway.
I think I'll attend her open class again someday. This is definitely just the start.
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Oh yeah, I met up with Nic. Tay and Sali today too at Studio Wu. It's great meeting the seniors again. Nic. Tay had to leave after she signed up for classes.
Went to eat dinner with Sali after the open class. We had a very good conversation going. Talking about how she met the dancing clique, JC life and everything else. I think I am really going to miss conversations like these when the seniors leave man.
Anyway, gotta go!
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Together
After spending the whole afternoon watching the lastest season of Desperate Housewives, I decided to take a short nap before eating dinner and head for recital practice. Ideally, that was what was supposed to happen. Ideally.
What really did happen was this--
I received an sms from Nik around 7pm. "Fuck, 7pm is when the practice starts!" was my first thought. I quickly changed my clothes and stormed out of the boarding school. This was when my first stroke of bad luck came: when I was on the overhead bridge, I saw 171 passed by the bus stop. 171 is the only direct bus to OSchool from my place. Crap. All that running was for nothing.
I had to wait for a bloody 20 minutes before another 171 came. When I was waiting for the bloody bus, I took out my PSP -- only to find it out of battery. I forgot to charge it! So no music for me! Have you ever heard the phrase "Without music, life's a mistake"?
When the 171 pulled in, I already noticed that the bus was going rather slow, but I didn't really care because I was already late by half an hour. My suspicion was confirmed when the bus started moving again -- the bus goes from 0km/h to 10km/h in like 10 seconds! I immediately regretted boarding the bus at all.
To make things worse, there was a bloody jam leading into Orchad Road. It made me envy how fast snails can go, really. Not to mention, there are 2 bimbos on the bus chatting away loudly, which fucking irritate the hell out of me. What's with my luck with girls? Do I always have to get bimbos? Why not decent girls for a change?
I ended up being 1 hour and 30 minutes late for the practice. Bloody hell. But my mood started to change from bad to good at right about this point.
When I got into the hall, Daniel immediately caught me with a joke:
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Me: I'm really sorry guys! The bloody bus was damn slow! Hope I didn't miss much....
Daniel: Oh, Wilfred! We changed the whole formation. And about the lifting, I changed it so that you're getting lifted by the legs. *proceed to give his evil grin*
Sidenote: I realized Daniel is starting to show his evil grin more often.
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Despite the serious nature of cleaning up, today's recital practice was quite light-hearted. Everyone is mingling and joking around, which is definitely good. I can now sense a change in everyone's attitude -- it seems that everyone is now very confident of our item, which boosts our morales even higher!
I mentioned that the instructors don't teach how to control facial expression yesterday. By a stroke of good luck, Daniel taught us the importance and how to control facial expression. But not without some jokes here and there:
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Daniel: You guys must know how to use facial expression to express your emotions. Anne, give me a sad look.
Anne: *changes her facial expression*
Daniel: No, no, that's a stone face.
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Daniel: Helena, give me a sad look!
Helena: *gives a facial expression*
Daniel: That's not sad. How bout angry?
Helena: Err....
Daniel: That's not angry too. Looks like you dunno how to control your facial expression.
Helena: *looks genuinely sad*
Daniel: Ah yes, perfect! That's the kind of sad face I want!
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After our practice ended, most of our recital group went to eat at the nearby Kopitiam foodcourt.
It was the first time that our recital group actually hung out together! It was quite a cool experience actually. Everyone is trying to get to know each other better. Of course, there were jokes being made in the process too.
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Justin: Wah, Wilfred from HCJC leh. Elitist lah! Next time become prime minister!
Serene: Huh? Wilfred wanna be PM?
Colin: What? Wilfred wanna be PM?
Nik: Huh? Wilfred wants to be a PM?
Me: =.='''
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Oh yeah, and apparently, Serene thought I was gay. Like what the hell? She meant it jokingly. But her perceptions change when another even greater "gay" came along....
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Justin: Last4 One is in town! I actually took photos with one of the Korean guys. His muscle damn big lah! And he's quite handsome too.
Everyone: *turns around and gave Justin weird looks*
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But we all knew he wasn't gay. But it was quite funny.
At first, Daniel wanted to come and join us for the late dinner. The first thought that popped into my mind was "Don't let Daniel order the food!" I remembered the time when my dancemates and Daniel went for dinner at the Taiwanese restaurant and ordered so much food that even 8 person can't finish.
All in all, today's recital practice is the greatest. I really am starting to like my recital mates alot more. The only sad part was the recital is coming in 9 days! I wish we had known eachother earlier. I wish it wouldn't end. The fun is just geting started. Before you know it, it's all going to end. Sigh.
I am left with 11 more days before I go back to Malaysia, but I still have lots to do! Need to start packing; do SAT practices; do something for the seniors; hang out with the seniors and my dancemates; attend open classes....... etc.
If only we could all be together forevermore..........
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Facade
You know, most of the time, I got this naggy feeling that I'm not really in touch with my emotions. Like sometimes I have to force myself to smile or laugh. I haven't really felt joyous or sad or anything at all for the past days. It's like I'm mechanical or something.
Sometimes, when I go down to the dining hall for mealtime, I have to see this particular group of female seniors that I really dislike. Actually, I don't hate all of them, but just a few particular. It's like they're fucking bimbos or something. I find 2 specific girls fucking shallow in their perception of ppl, because they only judge ppl by their appearance. "Oohh, look at that hot guy!" or "She looks great!", then they will somehow flirt their way to get to know them. They act like they're the hottest girls around, but in reality, they look nothing near that standard.
But the most disturbing part is how they failed to consider the fact that these "friends" they made are just putting up an act. A facade. Ah, that word comes up often doesn't it?
"Facade"
You see, everyone puts it up. It gets tiring sometimes. Sometimes, I just wanna be who I am -- me. The thing about facade it that it will wear off sooner or later, exposing a person's true colours. The colours can either be gracefully bright or dangerously dark.
When you are able to be who you really are, then you know you have found trustworthy friends. Friends who know who you are and understand you completely. I am glad to have found these true friends. Sometimes, I just got to remember that it's not worth the effort and energy to bitch about the ppl I don't like, instead I should focus on my true friends.
Thank you guys for being there. =)
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I think the other reason I feel emo is because I feel that I am very lousy in dancing. Ryan's class yesterday made me realize that I have a long way to go. Today, I went to the PE studio to practice his choreo, and no matter how much I've practiced, I feel like it still doesn't look good. Perhaps because I wasn't focusing during the class? Maybe I didn't pay enough attention to the details? Or how bout this -- Maybe I'm just not good enough?
Sometimes, I wish I have an instructor that can teach me everything about dance. Not only technically stuff like how to control facial expressions, how to isolate this, how to do that. I am talking about EVERYTHING about dance, like what dance is about, what hip hop is about, how to display emotions properly.
Sigh. I think some of you guys might not even understand what I'm talking about.
I may be better than some ppl, but there's still tons of ppl ahead of me. It's going to be a long and steep uphill journey from here.
There's recital practice tomorrow. It's the last practice before the full dress rehearsal on Sunday. Guys, let's do this! I am considering going for Ann Tan's open class tomorrow too. These may be the last few times I'm able to learn from her. I think I may ask some of the instructors for advice too tomorrow so that I'll know how to improve myself.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Holiday In Review
Things to do/look forward to during the holidays:
Class outing @ East Coast ParkForget it. This is DEFINITELY NOT going to happen.OG outing!!!- Complete holiday assignments >.< Halfway there =)
- Study for SAT Still am
- Dance, dance, dance! Definitely still going on
- Exercise more Believe it or not, I did
- Mix music Ongoing
- Choreo something with someone Ok, with the amount of time left, I don't think it's possible
- Hanging out with friends Absolutely! =D
- Do something crazy (like
jumping off a buildinggetting drunk, overnight but not sleeping etc.) Not yet, but soon - Do something for the seniors Doing it
- Play games I still do
- OSchool Recital (Can't wait) Damn excited for it! It's looking great
- Last but not least -- Go home I miss Malaysian food!
SAT is not as easy as I thought it was. I think I need to really do more practice for it.
I'm actually quite proud of how much I've progressed through my holiday assignments. I've finished Math Tutorial 13, Halogenoalkanes tutorial, and Chem Holiday Package. I'm quite surprised by my own determination. Usually, I don't finish my holiday assignments (Err, Mum, now you know). This is actually the first time I'm trying to complete them.
I also started working out at the gym too. Amazing, eh? With the amount of food I'm gorging down, I think I ought to keep my body in shape. So don't be surprise if you see this short guy lifting weights in the gym. Haha
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I met up with my OG mates yesterday! I really, really, really missed them! The 8 of us (Regina, Charlene, Pei Wen, Teck Yuke, Jun Xin, Zhi Yang, Li Jie and me) met at City Hall and went to Thai Express @ Esplanade to have dinner. After that, we went to the rooftop to chat and hang around. Not surprisingly, we spent alot of time cam whoring too. It was fun to catch up on each other's lives and just chat about our lives. I hope we can meet up again sometime soon!
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Ryan's lyrical class today was super-duper hard! I managed to persuade all of my dancemates, save for Freddie, to attend Ryan's class. They are quite unfortunate in a way, because today's choreo is probably the hardest out of all of his classes I've attended. Almost the whole class, even the regulars, have trouble catching up with Ryan's choreo away. And there was unusually large amount of ppl attending Ryan's class today. The lack of space, combined with Ryan's extremely difficult choreo, made me looked like a total dumbass in class today. I hope I don't look like a total moron on video.
Actually, I think I haven't been practicing dance enough. Ryan's class today made me realized that I need to buck up alot for dance. Guess I am heading to the studio tomorrow.
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
It's Coming
First thing's first:

I heard from the instructors that the tickets are selling very fast! The other day, Nik got about 20 tickets for his classmates and I am starting to panic if the tickets will eventually be sold out before I could buy them. I am collating the orders and cash so that I can buy in bulk this coming Thursday or Saturday. If the tickets sold out on the day I plan to buy, I'll go jump off a building or something.
The recital is looking great right now. The past Sunday's recital practice was definitely the dopest! It was 5 straight hours of dance! (instead of the usual 2 hours) Daniel kinda realized that we missed 3 practice sessions so he made up for it.
Daniel changed the storyline for our item, which was unfortunate, because our lead female actress decided to withdraw out of personal reasons.
Other than the fact that Rina backed out of the item (if she had done it sooner, all those things wouldn't have happened. Ironic), we had lots of fun bonding and clicking with each other. It seems that everyone is comfortable with each other, so everyone lets their hair down, even Daniel. Daniel became chatty and shared with us some of his dancing experience.
Finally, it seems that our recital item is solid! OSchool, watch out this coming vetting! We are better and stronger than ever before! Even though the practice was the best in recent times, I hope we will continue to improve and be the best!
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Had dinner with Nik after the practice. Had an interesting discussion with him about facades and human personalities.
Actually, sometimes I feel like I'm putting up a facade. Especially when I'm in school. It's like I have this feeling that I must act "socially acceptable" and I cannot really speak my mind sometimes. It's quite frustrating actually. I sometimes feel the same way with some of the J1 dancers too. In school, most of the time, the ppl I really let my hair down are some of the ppl in my class, and the dancers (especially the senior dancers, not surprisingly).
I wonder why do I even need a facade. I think I would be much happier if I can just be, you know, me.
So I've decided that from now on, I'll just be who I am -- myself. I don't care if a person don't like my comment. That person can just shove it up his ass if he wants to. I'll keep my cool and be me. =)
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I didn't follow some of my classmates to send Yew Wei off to Australia at the airport. I think I have said my farewells to him the other time. So instead, I had a hearty dinner at the Aston's outlet near my hostel, with Vincent. He was gracious to sponsor the meal because thought he might die from eating hostel food.
Spending time with seniors is important because this might be the last few times I'll be seeing them before they just head to their next path in life, be it university, NS, or working.
"So little time, so much to do"
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Nostalgic
Since the end of Hip Hop 3 course, my dance clique haven't met together on Saturdays. Plus, I've stopped going for Saturday's open classes too, since I've decided to pursue lyrical hip hop by attending Ryan's open class on Thursdays. So imagine my delight when I saw Ie-Ching and Brian again today (though it's not that I don't miss Nik, just that I've seen him very often).
So, Nik, Ie-Ching and me went for Daniel's hip hop I open class, like we used too. Quite nostalgic. Heh. xD But unfortunately, Brian could not join us because he injured his back recently, so he could only watched on as we danced. I feel quite bad for him, actually. (If you're reading this, Brian, I hope you'll get well soon!)
Daniel's choreo was quite fun today. We learnt the harlem shake, monastery (though we have already learnt this before), and C-walk! Shake, shake, shake, shake, shake! And I like the C-walk variations that he taught, like the side step and the Charlie Charleston. On the whole, his choreo today wasn't hard to catch, but it was energy-draining as usual, with all the large movements and everything. I'll post the vid once he (does) uploads it.
Actually, me and Ie-Ching wanted to go for Ann Tan's open class straightaway after Daniel's, but Brian and Nik didn't want to, so I guess maybe next time. It's been very long since I went for her lessons, and she was the one who first introduced me to lyrical hip hop. Ie-Ching told me an unfortunate news about Ann. I wish I could post it here, but I feel that I should respect her privacy. But the bottom line is, I am really, really, really, really, going to miss Ann Tan's lessons even more. I think I must go for at least a few more of her lessons before I go back to Malaysia, because I am never be able to see her again after that. T.T
Anyway, after the lesson, the 4 of us went to Studio Wu at SMU to check out the place (though actually I've been there before). And guess who I saw? I saw Sheila again! It was a pleasant surprise! Haven't seen her since the Street Jazz sabbaticals. She's a really dope and caring instructor, something like Ann Tan. Haha.
We checked the courses and stuff like that. But looking at the price, I was tempted to ask them: "Do you guys have financial aid?". Their courses costs twice as much as the course in OSchool but I heard the quality is better. I sometimes think that their act of capitalism might have hindered the people who really wants to learn dance. Like me.
After that, the four of us went to Bugis and eat, eat, and eat! It's like we walked and talked, then we eat and talk. Then the cycle repeats itself. We bought bubble tea, then went to eat at Noodle House. Then we walked around and ate desserts at Ministry of Food. Ministry of Food is DAMN NICE! But the price is DAMN EX also! Haiz. It seems that everything good is expensive.
But the most important things were the things that were said. We took the time to catch up on each other's lives. Something interesting was brought up. Ie-Ching asked whether we would want to join competitions next year, like Danceworks! Frankly speaking, I have thought of it, but I wonder whether we have enough expereince to hold our own feet. But I don't mind participating, but it's up to the rest of the clique. And I think it's going to set up some very awkward situations, because MAD is going to particpate too. Hmm...
Today just made me realized how much I love my dancemates. It's so unusual because we don't see each other often, but we do care for each other alot like how Ie-Ching always helped me out. I hope I can spend more time with them before I'm going back to Malaysia.
It seems that I have alot of stuff to do before going back to Malaysia, what's with taking SAT, recital training, hanging out with friends and dance pracs. As always, time is never enough.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Just Gettin' Started
Why is it that by the time we get to know our friends the best and just started having fun, then it would be time to leave? I bet countless ppl have thought of that before. Only till the end of something, be it school, performance, or a journey, then we look back at the times fondly, remembering the highlights and forgetting the bad moments. Perhaps we look back with a tinge of regret, wondering what we could have done differently, before we shelve the memories away.
Memories.
One of my classmates, Yew Wei, is leaving for Australia next Monday, because he seems to like the Australian life better. Actually, I kind of regretted that I didn't get to know him better, though I know he's somewhat an introvert.
My class had a farewell dinner for Yew Wei at Junction 8's Cafe Cartel on Tuesday night. The food was wonderful (well, so is the price tag, btw) but I think that our class sort of broke into our usual cliques and just ignored the fact that it was supposed to be Yew Wei's farewell dinner. After dinner, we went to the open area on the rooftop and sat down in a circle.


I was feeling kinda bad for Yew Wei because it seems like the farewell is not sincere enough. Where's the sincerity, guys? Seriously. Actually, I was hoping that our class could do something special before Yew Wei leaves. If not special, then at least something fun that can bond the class, like going cycling at East Coast Park or smth.
What happened to our class? I wonder. At the start of the year, we were so bonded. But now, it seems that our class has a serious gender segregation and numerous cliques. What happened to the time we celebrated Valerie's birthday? I remember standing in the Central Plaza, flipping the card, and feeling proud of my class for pulling something so special for our fellow classmate. I also remember at the start of the year, when my whole class would just put our difference aside, and just sit down in a circle and chat.
My class is not totally dessimated. In fact, my class is probably of the better classes out of the J1 cohort. Other classes doesn't have a Christmas BBQ party (which I will be missing, unfortunately, because I'll be back in Malaysia), neither do they have their own "haunted trail"s, or Sentosa outings. My class also had the most attendance for our fac event!
08S6E is good, but it can be great. I'll say it plainly. I think we can be MUCH MORE better than we are now if ppl in my class actually care about each other. I hate it when one calls the other "Jock-head" behind the back, then another one says "bimbo" discreetly. Everyone have their own weakness, so I hope we just tolerate it and get along with each other better. Is that too much to ask?
I have all these thoughts in my head for quite some time, and I think it's about time I voice them. I don't wanna look back after I've graduated and say "Oh, my class? It's ok. ". I want to be able to say "My class? They are FABULOUS! I really miss my classmates!". So that's why I've decided that maybe I should lend a hand in organizing stuff (be it outings or birthday celebrations) if the person-in-charge is unable, or incapable.
Let's make a difference, 08S6E!
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As for Yew Wei, I hope you'll enjoy yourself over at Australia. (Though I know you probably won't be reading this). Remember to come back and visit us next year when you have the chance!
"See you later" doesn't mean goodbye.
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On the other hand, the A-Levels are over for most of the seniors. They are probably hanging out and
Oh yeah, I'm also looking forward to spend quality time with my dancemates this Saturday. It's been a long time since we last hanged out together! Everybody is busy with his/her own life, what's with college, exams, and recital practices. Too bad Diana will be missing it though.
Believe it or not, my OG is having an OG BBQ next Wednesday! I'm really excited about it! Imagine thinking ur OG (orientation group, for the non-HC readers) is dead and dispersed, then suddenly there's going to be an OG BBQ! It'll be at Pei Wen's (my OG leader) new home! Yay! My OG has been very bonded from the start, so I guess it's not much surprise that my OG is not dead like most OGs are. If only my class have the same spirit as my OG....
Which these activities to look forward to, it seems that the party has just gettin' started!
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Can I Have This Dance
Holidays have been a peaceful affair, to say the least. It's a break from the ever-fast-paced school life, and finally it feels as though there's time to stop racing, sit down, and take a breather. Other than doing holiday assignments, preparing for SATs, and dancing, there's nothing much to update on. Hence the lack of updates.
Apparently, Daniel didn't mention an extra practice in the end, so that means I could go for Ryan's Lyrical Hip Hop class after all. This time, I was joined by Hui Hua and Pao Pao. I got to say that Pao Pao did quite well for a first-timer. This time, Ryan used the same song he used 2 weeks ago, but he changed some steps and added on more steps. Some parts were quite hard to catch though. Take a look at the video. Thank goodness I did not ridicule myself again on the video. xD
By the way, Ryan asked Darren, Zaihar, and Fredy to join him in a four-man-filming, but halfway through, Ryan forgot his steps. The he filmed again. And he forgot AGAIN. Another filming. He screwed up AGAIN. On the fourth filming, he also forgotten the steps AGAIN, then he just gave up and did Jazz techniques. (You can spot it from the opening scene if you look closely enough). That's Ryan for you. Haha.
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Finally found the time and company to watch High School Musical 3 last night. Almost everyone I know have watched it, and being a fanboy of sorts myself (yes, I've watched HSM1&2 a few times), I know I must watch it. Before watching it, I've had some very mixed reviews of the movie, ranging from "terrible-on-screen-hanky-panky-yucky-dewey" (usually guys gave this comment) to "just ok lah" to "Wonderful! I've watched it 3 times already!" (not surprisingly, those who told me that are usually girls). So I was very confused in terms of what to expect of the movie.
Yesterday, Vincent and Bing Sheng (2 of my seniors) accompanied me to watch the movie. In my opinion, I would give it about 3-3.5 stars out of 5. It's not exactly a flop (though there are a few random scenes from the movie), but it's not as great as High School Musical 1.
I liked the elaborate sets and fanciful costumes, and (not surprisingly) the dance steps. I like the number "A Night To Remember" particularly because I like the dance steps. I saw how they incorporated hip hop into waltz, which is quite original. Being trained in drama for 4 years (I was in English Drama in High School. Surprising, eh?), I came to appreciate the costumes and sets. So it wasn't any wonder that I enjoyed the show.
Although the storyline can get kinda cheesy at times, but I like the emotions displayed in the movie. Some guys might find it too gay/feminine, but I don't really mind these, as long as its not TOO feminine. (Ok, I realized you guys might not understand what it means. Nvm.) That's the reason I don't shy away from lyrical hip hop, like some guys do.
The other reason I find HSM3 to be okay because it coincidentally raises some issues that I've been thinking for quite some time.
What is my future going to be?
Which university?
Overseas or local?
What to study?
Am I moving too fast?
Perhaps too slow?
These questions have been on my mind ever since the end of JC1. Just one more year of JC life before everyone moves on to their separate paths (some ppl have already done so, like Yew Wei who is going to migrate over to Australia in less than 10 days). It made me realized that there's not much time left I can spend with my friends, so I must try my best to make the most out of it. I don't want to look back my JC life with tinges of regret, filled with what-ifs and what-could-be-done-differently.
The whole context of a possible future also brings up a few more questions--
Next year, will/should I join MAD?
Should I sign up for popping or focus more on hip hop?
Will my class be a united one over next year?
If I go overseas, how will my family, freinds and dancemates react? How much will I miss them?
After the J2s leave, especially the Malaysian Scholars and the dancing gang @ PE studio, what is school life going to be like?
Life is full of questions, apparently more so than the answers it offers. One could only foresee so much, yet there is much more to be foretold. The beauty of life.
I am ending off by dedicating the following song to my J2 seniors:
"Can I Have This Dance"
Take my hand, take a breath
Pull me close and take one step
Keep your eyes locked on mine,
And let the music be your guide.
Won't you promise me (now won't you promise me, that you'll never forget)
We'll keep dancing (to keep dancing) wherever we go next
(chorus)
It's like catching lightning the chances of finding someone like you
It's one in a million, the chances of feeling the way we do
And with every step together, we just keep on getting better
So can I have this dance (can I have this dance)
Can I have this dance







