ExtraOrdinary People Limited (EPL) has announced the highly anticipated return of “An ExtraOrdinary Celebration,” Singapore’s largest concert celebrating inclusivity.
Themed A Kaleidoscope of Love and Hope, this grand event promises a mesmerising showcase of 11 performing groups, featuring some 750 talented individuals from both special education (SPED) schools and mainstream institutions. Taking place on Nov 15, 2023, at the Ho Bee Auditorium in the University Cultural Centre, National University of Singapore (NUS), this unforgettable evening will be graced by the esteemed presence of Guest-of-Honour, Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore.
The chosen theme for this year’s edition, A Kaleidoscope of Love and Hope, vividly encapsulates the essence of this occasion. Much like the ever-evolving patterns within a kaleidoscope, the concert will illuminate the myriad facets of love and hope. It also unites individuals from all walks of life, transcending backgrounds and abilities, to create a harmonious symphony of inclusion.
Presenting a diverse array of enthralling performances by distinguished institutions such as APSN Katong school, MINDS Towner Gardens, Cerebral Palsy Association Singapore (CPAS), the concert will also mark the debut of the newly formed ExtraOrdinary Music Company, established in August 2023. They will take centrestage with the captivating ExtraOrdinary Light Orchestra, promising an unforgettable musical experience for all. In addition, the event will see EPL make its mark in history as they attempt to coordinate the largest ever handbell ensemble in Singapore, for a coveted spot in the Singapore Book of Records.
Since its inaugural concert in 2018, EPL has been a catalyst for momentous collaborations between performers hailing from both SPED schools and mainstream educational institutions. These collaborative showcases are more than mere entertainment; they serve as a testament to EPL’s unwavering dedication to cultivating an inclusive society where every individual, regardless of their background, experiences the profound sense of being valued, embraced, and included.
Mr. Ivan Chin, CEO of Extra Ordinary People Limited said, “Our mission is to unite people from all walks of life, including beneficiaries, caregivers, and the broader public, in a community where ‘differences’ hold no bounds. Our annual concert stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to nurturing a world where diversity not only flourishes as a source of strength and harmony but also where we continue to emphasise inclusivity as an integral part of our society, rather than an afterthought.”
EPL’s ExtraOrdinary Campus Programme
EPL’s commitment to empowering youths with special needs remains steadfast. ExtraOrdinary Campus Programme as announced last year – launched its pilot early 2023 and has seen good progress – expecting to achieve full enrollment by the time it launches officially in July 2024.
Tailored for post-18 youth with disabilities, the campus programme offers an extended, guided pathway to identify and support relevant vocational courses, ultimately enhancing the beneficiaries’ employability. With a sharp focus on fostering independent living skills and facilitating comprehensive job training, participants will be well-prepared for prospective careers through specialised curriculums, leading individuals to Music and Culinary pathways.
Also under the umbrella of EPL’s ExtraOrdinary Campus Programme is Creative Lab, a vocational art incubator programme, specifically designed for individuals with a keen interest in visual arts. With the guidance of skilled therapists, beneficiaries of this program have the opportunity to explore their creative potential and transform their artistic talents into fulfilling and meaningful careers.
As ‘An ExtraOrdinary Celebration’ makes its much-anticipated return, along with the introduction of new program offerings, EPL hopes to further foster growth, compassion, and inclusivity within Singapore’s vibrant and diverse community.
For more information on EPL and An ExtraOrdinary Celebration, please visit: http://extraordinarypeople.sg
Event Details
Date: 15 November 2023
Time: 7:00 – 8.30 PM
Venue: Ho Bee Auditorium, University Cultural Centre, National University of Singapore (NUS)
The concert is by invitation only but will live streamed at www.extraordinarypeople.sg .
