Universal Studios Singapore - 7 Themes, 24 Attractions, 18 World Firsts

By Donn Richard
October 2009
Singapore

Pack up the kids, load the wagon and let’s hightail it over to....wait for it....UNIVERSAL STUDIOS Singapore!!!

Can you believe it? A big chunk of California Dreaming plopped right down here in little ol’ Singapore!

We haven’t seen excitement like this since the Gold Rush of ’49! And let’s face it; unlike the folks in those times, everyone who’s got their nickel for a ticket is going to strike GOLD!

A great big “thank you” to Resorts World at Sentosa for pulling no punches and making their message: “We Are THE Region’s Ultimate Family Destination” truer than tarnation.

Try this on for size. Universal Studios Singapore has announced that it will offer tickets cheaper than any other Universal Studios Theme Park in the World. As an added bonus, Universal Studios Singapore has the world’s first and only “Far Far Away Castle” from the world of “Shrek and Madagascar”! Donn Richard can just see those kids a hoopin’and a hollerin’ to beat the band!

October 20th, in the presence of world media, Resorts World at Sentosa unveiled 24 magnificent attractions within 7 unique movie themed zones; 18 of these fantastic attractions never seen before anywhere but at Universal Studios Singapore. Mesmerizing, fast and furious water chases were also held by professional stuntmen of Waterworld - what a show!

Has all the excitement given you a bodacious appetite? Not to worry none - 10 restaurants and dozens of snack carts will be blooming throughout this theme park like Rocky Mountain wildflowers.

Talk about the mother of all Universal Parks!

Had enough yet? Well hold on. Along with the cheapest entry fee of all Universal Studios Parks, it also boasts the largest collection of DreamWorks attractions! Think of it. Save your money AND see the creations of the one and only Steven Spielberg!

This is what RWS’s CEO Mr Tan Hee Teck had to say: “We are excited about our relationship with DreamWorks Animation and Universal Studios Parks & Resorts, and I am sure that many Asian visitors will be too, when they see Universal Studios Singapore bring to life two of DreamWorks Animation’s most successful box-office franchises” – beautiful news this is indeed Mr Tan Hee Teck!

There will be 7 movie themed zones at Universal Studios Singapore.

Zone 1: Hollywood Boulevard. This zone is closest to Resorts World at Sentosa’s Monorail Station and “the Strip” and also serves as entrance and exit to the entire Park.

Here you will find a theatre, 6 specialty stores; including Universal Studios very own flagship store, and two eateries.

One of the park’s biggest indoor theatres is located in this zone. It’s the 1,500 seat “Pantages Hollywood Theater” especially equipped to showcase big musical productions – Broadway style. You just can’t beat a good Broadway Show.

Zone 2: New York. This great zone will feature a sound and special effects stage, a movie production stage, and two eateries. Well, what did you expect? A great zone for a great city!

Premiering in Singapore: “Lights! Camera! Action - Hosted by Steven Spielberg”. Witness New York hit by a major hurricane. Now that I’d like to see!

Then there’s “Stage 28” also making its debut in Singapore. This incredible stage will feature films and props and will allow for a sneak peek behind the scenes of real movie production - Hollywood style. Got a budding director in your brood? Well, what are you waiting for?

Zone 3: Sci-Fi City. Fans of roller coaster rides will love this zone. It will feature the world’s tallest dueling Roller Coasters: “Human” & “Cylon” and “Accelerator” plus “Sci-Fi City” – a future metropolis for science-fiction buffs.

Battlestar Gallactica is the next evolution of roller coasters. First, there’s “Human”, something we traditionalists will appreciate. Old style, thrilling and well-mannered. Well, as well-mannered as a coaster can be.

Then there’s “Cylon”. What can I say. Give this one a wide berth if you’ve got even a hint of heart-trouble. Heck, give this monster a wide berth if you’re just faint-hearted! Suspended, fast...think I’ll leave it to the youngsters.

Unsure of your stamina? Test it on the “Accelerator” – the third attraction of Battlestar Gallactica. Don’t forget to check out what awaits you and yours a few years down the road at Sci-Fi City.

And… the surprise of all surprises is… you’ve guessed it: "TRANSFORMERS – The Ride" – debuting in2011; not in the US or Japan, but in Singapore, folks!

Zone 4: Ancient Egypt. This zone is a must-visit zone for every “Mummy” movie fan. It will feature a vintage car track, the indoors Mummy coaster ride, a souvenir shop and two eateries.

Also home of the world’s favourite mummy. This Mummy will unleash its curse onto every visitor taking the ride of their lives in the “Revenge of the Mummy” Coaster ride, guaranteed to chill the most macho visitor.

“Treasure Hunters” is another of the 18 world premieres. Here you Egyptologists can drive your very own vintage car through rough excavation terrain. Having spent some time in the Land of the Pharaohs, Donn personally guarantees that this here’s the next best thing.

Zone 5: The Lost World. This is a tried and tested two-zone within one zone “Waterworld & Jurassic Park”. This gigantic zone, probably the biggest in the park, will feature a stunt show, a rock climb, a dragonfly sky ride, a coaster ride, a water ride, two souvenir shops, and the park’s only food court. Whew!

“Waterworld” stunt show. This show takes place in the outdoor amphitheatre capable of seating 1,014 people. This show is all about death-defying stunts, fast and furious water chases, and thunderous explosions.

Want some serious exploration? The “Amber Rock Climb” will be the attraction for you.

Another world premiere and another attraction that requires some serious exploration, only this time it’s for kids and its high up in the sky. It’s called “Dino-Soarin” - Kids will fly their very own dragonflies!

Another world first also involving some high flying: the “Canopy Flyer”. For the young at heart!

Last but not least “Jurassic Park Rapids Adventure”, also a world first. Here you board a water raft to an unknown destination in the Jurassic compound.

Zone 6: Far Far Away. This uber exciting zone will feature an interactive live show, a miniature ferriswheel, an Ogre Vision special effects theatre, a roller-coaster, a souvenir shop, and two eateries.

By Golly, can you rightly believe it? My two favourite characters (and I’ll bet yours, too), good ol’Shrek and Donkey will be a settin’there just ready and willin’ to say “howdy”.

“Enchanted Airways”. Here you can enjoy a birds-eye-view of the castle by boarding the junior roller coaster and entering the world of “Shrek”. Premiering in Singapore is “Donkey Live”. Have you ever interacted with a Donkey? Now is the time. Only here you can do it in an intimate theatre setting!

Yet, another world first,” Magic Potion Spin”, specially designed for the younguns, this miniature ferriswheel guarantees a time they will never forget.

Just when you think ENOUGH! Universal Studios Singapore brings you more: “Shrek 4-D Adventure”. In the Ogre Vision Special Effects theatre you will be expected to help save Princess Fiona. The question is: can you? Get on over there and find out!

Zone 7: Madagascar. Themed around the DreamWorks animation hit movie that goes by the same name “Madagascar”. This zone will feature a carousel, a riverboat adventure, a Madagascar souvenir shop and two eateries.

World’s first “King Julien’s Beach party-Go-Round Carousel” featuring all your favourite Madagascar characters.

Also a world first is the river boat “A Crate Adventure”. Here you can board the boat with your friends Gloria, Melman, Marty and Alex for a ride of a lifetime that includes moving show-action effects, special sound effects while watching state-of the-art animated figures digitally projected on a screen.

Lots of thick jungle in the Madagscar zone – don’t forget your mosquito repellents!

Mr Tan Hee Teck, CEO of Resorts World Sentosa, said: “We are in the final stages of construction, and for those who have had a sneak preview of Universal Studios Singapore taking shape, it has been an unanimous response that this is going to be a ‘must-see’ when Resorts World Sentosa opens early next year.’’

“Universal Studios Singapore will be its own unique experience and family destination with many new rides, shows and themes that can’t be found at other Universal Studios parks around the world,” said Tom Williams, chairman and CEO, Universal Parks & Resorts. “Universal’s attention to location-specific creative and design promises to deliver first-time Singapore guests as well as devoted Universal Studios visitors that enjoyed other global locations—an exciting,
different and memorable experience,” added Williams.

Photo of the Entrance to Far Far Away Castle at Universal Studios Singapore (soft open early 2010)

Photo From Resorts World at Sentosa

An entrance to Far Far Away Castle, where you can catch Shrek 4D!

Universal Studios signature Globe being installed at Universal Studios Singapore

Photo by Resorts World at Sentosa
The signature Universal Studios globe being installed at the entrance of Universal Studios Singapore.

Photos of inside the Park at Universal Studios Singapore (Soft Opening early 2010)

Live water show based on the film "Waterworld"



The Oasis Spice Café at Ancient Egypt will be one of the Halal restaurants at Universal Studios Singapore. Egyptian murals on the walls were all hand painted.


Ancient Egypt zone at Universal Studios Singapore.

The Enchanted Airways: A junior roller-coaster ride serving destinations throughout the world of Shrek. On the right is the Far Far Away castle.



Photo from Resorts World at Sentosa

Spaceship at Resorts World Sentosa?

Photo From Resorts World at Sentosa

Spaceship at Resorts World Sentosa? No prizes for guessing its name. This structure is at least four storeys tall!

Universal Studios Singapore Update for Oct 26th 2009

Updated pictures of Universal Studios Singapore (soft opening early 2010). They have open up some new area to take picture from so more closer pictures of Sherk's Castle and the Front of Battlestar Coaster. At the end is a short movie look in about the middle of the screen you will see one of the dinosaur at Jurassic Park River Rapids in action.

Sentosa Theme Park Blog Discussion Forums is Now Live

Sentosa Theme Park Blog Discussion Forums in now live for you to use at http://forum.sentosathemeparks.com.

Post your Photo,Reviews,Comments and Thoughts about Sentosa Island, Resorts World at Sentosa, Marina Bay Sands,Universal Studios Singapore,Singapore Zoo and other places to see and do in Singapore.

Let people know about your favorite Restaurant or Night Club.

Sign up for Sentosa Theme Park Discussion Forums an get posting

Thanks
Bigbearsg

Promo Video of Universal Studios Singapore and Resorts World at Sentosa

Spielberg's Universal Studios Singapore`not competing' with Disney

by Mary Ann Benitez
The Standard

Hollywood producer and director Steven Spielberg lent his hand to boost the profile of upcoming Universal Studios Singapore as the city-state tries to drum up Hong Kong interest in the project.

Spielberg helped create the theme park - part of a bigger integrated Resorts World - which, its backers claim, will not compete with Hong Kong Disneyland.

Featuring 24 rides and attractions, the US$4.4 billion (HK$34.32 billion) resort, developed on Sentosa Island, will open in the first quarter of next year and it expects to attract 13 million visitors within its first 12 months.

In a five-minute video clip, Spielberg said.

"I am excited to help create Universal Studios Singapore ... a spectacular destination for the people of the region and the people of the world ... a place where our imagination becomes world reality," he said.

"Universal gives the people an opportunity to ride the movies."

Universal Studios Singapore will have attractions based on movies such as Jurassic Park, Shrek and Waterworld.

"I am particularly excited about the DreamWorks Animated theme lands of Far, Far Away and Madagascar," he said. Visitors "will be put inside, making them the superstars. These memories can last a lifetime."

Edward Koh Boon Wee, chief representative regional director for Greater China of the Singapore Tourism Board, said Hong Kong is an important market for the city-state.

More than 300,000 Hongkongers visit Singapore each year. "They like to go to Singapore for

food, shopping and buying our local products. I hope the integrated resorts will give them more entertainment options to stay another day, another night on the island," Koh said.

Universal Studios Singapore will target Asia as its key market.

"We call it the integrated resort and it is all encompassing. It is similar to the positioning of Singapore as a global leisure destination and a convention and services city of Asia," he said.

Koh does not think it will compete directly with Disneyland because they are "very different propositions."

DISNEY’S THE LION KING TO OPEN AT MARINA BAY SANDS Singapore, SEPTEMBER 2010

SINGAPORE (October 21, 2009) – Disney Theatrical Group and Marina Bay Sands®, together with BASE Entertainment, are proud to announce that the award-winning Broadway musical The Lion King will come to the Marina Bay Sands Theatre in September 2010. This extended engagement will join the seven other highly successful companies of The Lion King around the world in New York, London, Hamburg, Paris, Tokyo, Las Vegas and a US National Tour.

This Southeast Asian premiere in Singapore will be a duplicate of the other shows performing around the globe with the same Broadway quality standards, spectacular music, dance, sets and costumes that have made it a worldwide phenomenon. The production will feature a new company of performers auditioned around the world. Ticket prices, on-sale dates and performance schedules will be announced in 2010.

“We’re gigantically proud to bring The Lion King to the audiences of Singapore,” said Thomas Schumacher, producer and president of Disney Theatrical Productions. “BASE Entertainment and Marina Bay Sands are making an extraordinary commitment to bringing Julie Taymor’s glorious production to life in the very best way possible. When we decided to bring The Lion King to Singapore we knew that this was the right show at the right venue at the right time.”

Marina Bay Sands President and CEO Thomas Arasi said, “Marina Bay Sands will be the destination with a world-class production like The Lion King. This is the first time this acclaimed musical has come to Southeast Asia and this just adds to the line-up of attractions at Marina Bay Sands including the Sands SkyPark®, the best celebrity chef restaurants and Asia’s most fashionable shopping.”

Scott Zeiger, co-CEO of BASE Entertainment, said, “We are thrilled to open the state-of-the-art theater at Marina Bay Sands with Disney Theatrical Group’s The Lion King, one of the most spectacular Broadway shows in history. The show has a tremendous reputation throughout the
entertainment industry and we anticipate a strong demand for The Lion King in Singapore from locals and visitors alike.”

Marina Bay Sands will feature two theatres with a total of 4,000 seats, large and flexible convention and exhibition facilities, a luxury hotel, the breathtaking rooftop Sands SkyPark®, a museum, Las Vegas-style gaming, the Paiza Club for premium players and Celebrity Chef restaurants and cuisinest hat allow visitors to eat around the world in one destination.

ABOUT THE LION KING

Julie Taymor’s internationally acclaimed stage adaptation of Disney’s 1994 animated film premiered on Broadway in November 1997, winning the Tony Award® for ‘Best Musical’ and since that time, the show has been seen by more than 50 million people around the world. In addition to recordbreaking productions in London and New York, THE LION KING can currently be seen in Paris,Tokyo, Hamburg, Las Vegas and on tour in the USA.

The score features Elton John and Tim Rice’s music from the animated film along with three original songs by John and Rice; additional musical material by South African Lebo M, Mark Mancina, Jay Rifkin, Julie Taymor and Hans Zimmer; and music from an album inspired by the animated film,"Rhythm of the Pride Lands," written by Lebo M, Mark Mancina and Hans Zimmer. The resulting sound of THE LION KING score is a fusion of Western popular music and the distinctive sounds and rhythms of Africa, embracing the Academy Award®-winning “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” and the haunting “Shadowlands.” Director Julie Taymor became the first woman in Broadway history to win the Tony® Award for Best Director of a Musical. Taymor, along with Michael Curry, created hundreds of masks and puppets for THE LION KING. Choreography is by Garth Fagan, scenic design is by Richard Hudson, costume design is by Julie Taymor and lighting design is by Donald Holder. The book has been adapted by Roger Allers, who co-directed the animated film and Irenem Mecchi, who co-wrote the screenplay for THE LION KING.
Press Release From Marina Bay Sands

Resorts World Sentosa: Interview with Krist Boo - Vice President (20 October 2009)

Resorts World Sentosa is a collection of six hotels and attractions with fun-filled offerings for the entire family. Located on Singapores Sentosa island and spanning 49 hectares, this S$6.59 billion (US$4.4 billion) destination will be home to Southeast Asias first and only Universal Studios theme park, the worlds largest Marine Life Park, a destination spa ESPA and a designer casino decked with exciting gaming opportunities. Six unique hotels complemented by creative meeting facilities, world-class shows and public entertainment, as well as celebrity dining and shopping options at FestiveWalk complete the experience. Resorts World at Sentosa will have its soft opening in early 2010.

This interview with Ms Krist Boo, Vice President Head Communications of Resorts World Sentosa, was taken on 20 October 2009 following a press conference and tour of which full video coverage (around 2 hours of HD video) will be featured here, once we have completed the editing process. These videos will feature never before seen footage of the park and some of its future plans.

Aerial view of Crockfords Tower and Hotel Michael at Resorts World at Sentosa

Aerial view of Crockfords Tower and Hotel Michael, taken Oct 21, at the Sky Tower. Universal Studios is to the right of the photo. In the Background is FestiveWalk Area. To the Left is Festive Hotel.

"Wall Photos" by Resorts World at Sentosa

Photos from Press Tour Today at Universal Studios Singapore (soft opening early 2010)

Animal lovers might be horrified but… don’t worry it isn’t a real shark.


The Oasis Spice Café at Ancient Egypt will be one of the Halal restaurants at Universal Studios Singapore. Egyptian murals on the walls were all hand painted.







"Media coverage: Universal Studios Singapore Unveiled" by Resorts World at Sentosa

New Site Map For Universal Studios Singapore (opening early 2010)

Check out the new Site Map for (just click on this--->) Universal Studios Singapore. You Can Click on the different Areas of the Map.

Getting the Singapore Community Involved for the 2010 Youth Olympic's

The team from Anglo-Chinese Junior College posing with the GREAT YOG Sculpture.


NEWSLETTER ISSUE 13: PEOPLE
15 October 2009

By Ellen Ng

The team from Anglo-Chinese Junior College posing with the GREAT YOG Sculpture.

How do you spread the word that the first Youth Olympic Games (YOG) is coming to town? Something large and visual would be a good way to do so, as a bunch of young people from Singapore’s Anglo-Chinese Junior College discovered.

To promote the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games, the group of 10 students embarked on a month-long journey to work on a project that would reach out to people in their community. The students, under the school’s Grassroots, Enrichment, Attachment and Training (GREAT) Programme, created a 3m tall by 3m wide sculpture for the Holland-Bukit Timah Group Representation Constituency (GRC) Sport Festival and Ulu Pandan Youth X’travaganza – on 12 July 2009.

Depicting the Singapore 2010 Spirit of Youth emblem, the three-dimensional sculpture is a hollow structure that was filled up with origami shapes signifying the Olympic values and the YOG logo. The event saw people of different ages and backgrounds come together to fold coloured paper to complete the sculpture.


Demonstrating the art of origami star folding.

Project vice chairperson, Desmond QUEK, taught members of the public to make origami art in heart, star and fish shapes, which represent passion, excellence and friendship respectively. Desmond believes the activity drove home the significance of the upcoming Games. “As participants folded the origami, they gained awareness on the Olympic values and the meaning behind the YOG logo,” he said.

Co-chairperson Michelle GWEE agreed. “It was wonderful seeing how people from all walks of life came together to support the YOG.”

“In fact, many of the elderly enjoyed folding the origami pieces. Some even stayed behind at our booth to help us fold more pieces! Apparently, it reminded them of their childhood where they folded origami as a hobby.”

The sculpture – funded by the Singapore 2010-Young ChangeMakers Grant – also came with a canvas sheet measuring 6m by 8m that allowed the public to pen their well wishes for Team Singapore athletes who will be participating in the YOG next year. Members of the community, along with local dignitaries including Mrs Yee Shoon YU-FOO, Minister of State, Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports, left words of encouragement for the Singapore athletes on the large floor mat.

It was the team’s first attempt at making a sculpture of this scale, said co-chairperson Alex NG, and the gigantic size of the project caused a little hiccup. Just three days before the event, the team realised that the sculpture was simply too large and there was no way to fill it up with the amount of origami paper prepared. “Immediately, our team started to source for materials and devised new methods to modify the sculpture,” said Desmond.

“Though it was frustrating and challenging, it was a valuable experience on hindsight. It really brought the team together,” he added.

“It was satisfying when the event was over,” said Alex. “We were initially worried whether the public would be receptive towards the sculpture and banner signing. Seeing many members of the public, including old folks and children, sign the banner without persuasion and taking time to fold the origami shapes was a delightful experience.”
Last Updated: 19 Oct, 2009. 17:46 GMT+8

Singapore and Resorts World at Sentosa to Host Asia Pacific Retailers Convention & Exhibition in 2011

Asia's largest convention and exhibition for the retail industry returns to Southeast Asia

Singapore, Oct 16, 2009 - (ACN Newswire) - The next Asia Pacific Retailers Convention & Exhibition (APRCE) will be held in Singapore from 10 - 13 October 2011. Themed "Discover, Differentiate, Deliver!", the 15th edition of Asia's largest retail convention and exhibition aims to discover new approaches to the latest issues facing the region's retailers and highlight innovative solutions that can help retailers differentiate themselves from competitors, to deliver greater value to consumers in Asia.

Also known as APRCE 2011, the event was last held in Southeast Asia in 2001, when Jakarta hosted the tenth edition. Since then, it has been hosted in Christchurch, Beijing, Tokyo and Seoul. An estimated 2,500 participants from across the 17 member countries/areas of the Federation of Asia-Pacific Retailers Associations (FAPRA) are expected to attend the convention and exhibition. FAPRA members' selection of Singapore as the host city will bring this key regional event closer to the Southeast Asian retail hubs which have seen phenomenal growth in the past decade. Retailers in this region are expected to grasp this opportunity and make up the majority of the delegates at the event in Singapore.

APRCE 2011 is hosted in association with FAPRA and jointly organised by The Singapore Retailers Association (SRA) and Singapore Exhibition Services (SES).

Key Developments in the Singapore Retail Scene

APRCE 2011 will be the second time that Singapore is hosting the regional convention and exhibition. The Lion City last hosted the event in 1989. The milestone 15th edition of the event will arrive in the wake of large-scale developments in the city's retail landscape.

The iconic Orchard Road shopping belt has received a US$1.1 billion facelift, with investments from the private and public sectors increasing shopping options and diversity of retail concepts. Brand new malls along the stretch will add 100,000 square metres of retail space to the shopping belt. Two integrated resorts, Resorts World Sentosa and Marina Bay Sands will also be completed in 2010, adding to the mix by bringing flagship concept stores featuring top global brands.

In the next two years, over 500,000 square metres of retail space will be added to the market in Singapore, which is 25 per cent more than the total space added over the last 15 years. This is a reflection of the extraordinary expansion of the retail sector in the island state in recent years.

Choice Convention and Exhibition Destination

Delegates to the convention and exhibition will be visiting a leading Meetings, Incentives, Conventions & Exhibition (MICE) city offering a wide, vibrant range of entertainment, nightlife, culture, shopping and food. Singapore received, for the second consecutive year, the title of "Top International Meeting City" in the Union of International Associations (UIA) 2008 Global Rankings and also retained pole position for 25 years running as Asia's "Top Country and City for Meetings" in the International Congress Convention Association (ICCA) Global Rankings 2007.

APRCE 2011 will be held at Resorts World at Sentosa, a US$4.7 billion mega-resort that will be home to Southeast Asia's first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world's largest oceanarium and a myriad of world-class MICE facilities. To be opened in early 2010, the spanking development is located on the resort island of Sentosa. Sentosa is connected to mainland Singapore by road and is a mere 25 minutes from the airport and 15 minutes from the commercial and shopping districts.

"We are truly honoured to be chosen to host APRCE 2011. The event will introduce best practices and innovative use of technologies to the growing retail industry in Asia, which is projected to see total retail sales reach US$5.3 trillion by 2013. It will continue to play a critical role in providing members with the competitive advantage in the increasingly globalised retail market place," said Dato' Dr Jannie Tay, APRCE 2011 Convention Chairperson and President of Singapore Retail Association.

APRCE 2011 is supported by The Singapore Tourism Board. For the latest updates, please visit www.aprce2011.org.

The 15th APRCE 2011 is held at Resorts World @ Sentosa, Singapore

To pre-register or reserve a copy of the convention programme, please email aprce@sra.org.sg. Early Bird Registration opens in 2010.

Audition for Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games Entertainers

Fancy having the eyes of the world on you as you perform on stage? The stage happens to be the inaugural Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games taking place next August. You could be part of the entertainment presentations that athletes, spectators and TV audiences see in between events at the Games. So come and show us your stuff…you could be a part of the first Youth Olympic Games happening right here in Singapore.
What?


Audition to be part of the entertainment team for Singapore 2010. Bring your instruments, music, tricks and yourself. Sing a song, do a band item, a cheer or some radical tricks. You have a minute to dazzle us with your talent.
When and where?


Friday, 23 October 2009, front entrance of Cathay Cineleisure Orchard.
How?


Pre-register now by downloading the form and emailing it back to us to ensure your spot, but remember to bring a signed hardcopy with you on the day! Pre-registration closes on Thursday, 22 October 2009.



On-site registration is also available from 4.00pm to 8.00pm on audition day but subject to availability.

If you are below 18 years of age, you will have to get a parent or guardian's signed consent.
Programme


4:00pm
> On-site registration and audition allocation opens. Check-in for pre-registered participants.

5:30pm
> Auditions commence

8:00pm
> Registration closes

9:30pm
> Auditions end

*Disclaimer: You can perform anything you like in the one-minute audition. However, organisers reserve the right to suspend the act if it is deemed dangerous, hazardous or offensive.

Sentosa Spooktacular in Singapore

Celebrate Halloween at the Sentosa Spooktacular!Ressurect the ancient past of Singapore and survive to tell the tale

Date 23, 24, 30 & 31 Oct 2009
Time 7pm to 10.30pm
Venue
Images of Singapore
Admission

$22 (event admission)
$28 (includes entry into Wave House & 1 Housepour)
Islanders & Early Birds Specials Available!

Resurrect the ancient past of Singapore. Experience the thrills and horror of a time long forgotten. A time when our forefathers lived in turbulence and extreme hardship. Traipse the endless trail of horrifying events, scary superstitions and urban legends. After that, make merry with the ghouls at the Images of Singapore Forecourt. Indulge in bloody delights and mingle with the unearthly crowd if you dare. This Halloween, come to the Images of Singapore and survive to tell the tale.

The 3rd edition of the Sea Asia Conference and Exhibition will be presented in a brand new location in 2011 - Marina Bay Sands®, Singapore.

Singapore: The 3rd edition of the Sea Asia Conference and Exhibition will be presented in a brand new location in 2011 - Marina Bay Sands®, Singapore.

The "integrated resort" - as it is called in the Lion Republic - will open its doors in 2010, boasting not just a luxury hotel, but also a casino, retail and F&B, and five floors of convention and exhibition facilities. Sands, the iconic gaming brand from Las Vegas, is opening Singapore's first casino -- a business shipping has often been likened to in the past, with too many high rollers taking too many risky gambles.

However, with Sea Asia 2011 expected to outgrow its previous editions, it became plain good sense rather than a gamble for the premier maritime conference and exhibition organised by Seatrade and the Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) to move to the new premises.

Commenting on the move, Seatrade Chairman Mr Christopher Hayman said, ”Sea Asia 2009 almost doubled in terms of net exhibition space over its inaugural event, boasting 5,533 square metres of net exhibition space and 11,000 square metres of gross space this year. Preliminary feedback and interest shown by participants suggest that the next edition is set to expand. As Sea Asia grows in size and prominence, we believe that Marina Bay Sands® which is within easy access of Singapore’s business district, will be well-positioned to receive our premier event.”

“Sea Asia is the iconic maritime show of Singapore. This mega maritime event brings together maritime leaders from different parts of the world to Singapore to attend the varied topical conference sessions, tradeshow and networking functions. Sea Asia 2009 was a great success despite the economic downturn. I’m confident that in 2011, Sea Asia will serve as the timely platform for the international shipping community to congregate to address pertinent maritime issues, network, catch up with old friends, meet new acquaintances and explore new business opportunities to push the maritime industry to greater heights,” said Mr S.S.Teo, Chairman of the Singapore Maritime Foundation.

Mr Thomas Arasi, President and CEO of Marina Bay Sands® said, “We’re thrilled to be chosen as the venue to host Sea Asia 2011. With one of the biggest and most flexible exhibition facilities in Asia, Marina Bay Sands® is becoming a venue of choice for trade show organisers. This deal is an endorsement of Marina Bay Sands® as the region’s premier integrated entertainment destination.”

Sea Asia 2011 will be held from 12-14 April and in conjunction with the Singapore Maritime Week 2011 organised by the Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA). For more details, visit www.sea-asia.com. [13/10/09]

Singapore Tourism Board Developing New Tourism Roadmap

The Singapore Tourism Board is developing a new tourism roadmap called Tourism Compass 2020, which will be an enhancement of Tourism 2015, a tourism blueprint launched in 2005 with a vision to become Asia’s leading MICE city, leisure destination, and services centre. It targeted to achieve Sin$30 billion in tourism receipts and 17 million visitor arrivals to Singapore by 2015.

Since then, the Singapore landscape has undergone a dynamic change in the last four years, and a dramatically different Singapore skyline will emerge over the next few years as tourism products such as the Integrated Resorts, the Gardens by the Bay project and the International Cruise Terminal come on stream.

Global events such as one of the worst economic slowdowns seen in years, and health scares like the Swine Flu (H1N1) pandemic and Avian Flu, have also had a significant impact on the tourism landscape.

Ms Aw Kah Peng, STB’s Chief Executive and co-chair of the Tourism Compass 2020 Steering Committee said, “Singapore as a destination has undergone a rapid transformation in the last few years. While the current environment may be challenging, we are upbeat about the long term prospects for growth in tourism. This is why we are developing Tourism Compass 2020 – to identify and capitalise on emerging opportunities afforded by new travel trends, so that we can further tourism’s contribution as a key driver of Singapore’s economy.”

STB has put together a Steering Committee that includes members of the Tourism Consultative Council (TCC), who are leaders in the business and tourism sector. The Tourism Compass 2020 Steering Committee will provide strategic direction for future tourism development in Singapore.

Five Taskforces have also been set up to map out tourism strategies specifically pertaining to the areas of Business, Enrichment, Lifestyle, Marketing, and Travel and Hospitality. Each Taskforce is led jointly by STB and Tourism Consultative Council (TCC) representatives, and is supported by members of various backgrounds from the private and public sectors who provide valuable insights and perspectives.

Adding a further dimension to this broad-based approach is STB’s call for ideas from members of the public, who may not be part of the industry but are equally passionate about shaping the future of Singapore tourism.

They can contribute by sending in comments, suggestions, images and videos to the Tourism Compass 2020 website, over the next four months.

Explaining this broad-based approach, Mr Gerald Lee, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of The Ascott Group Limited and also co-chair of the Tourism Compass 2020 Steering Committee, said, “This will provide us fresh perspectives and a 360-degree vantage point for a sustainable tourism roadmap. Tourism is not just for visitors; Singapore tourism belongs to residents too. By bringing members of the public into this discussion, we hope to include ideas and suggestions close to the hearts of people living in Singapore, Singaporeans based overseas, visitors who love Singapore – everyone. We want to evolve the destination into one that will excite and engage people in a personal and authentic way.”

From October 2009 to January 2010, the public can vote for the most creative ideas submitted via the Tourism Compass 2020 website. The top three contributors as voted by the public each month will go on to enjoy experiences at Resorts World Sentosa and Dempsey Hill. Their ideas may also be incorporated into the Tourism Compass 2020 roadmap.

Fact Sheet For The Battlestar Galatica Coaster at Universal Studio's Singapore

Photo by Kenneth Goh

Video and Information on HALLOWEEN SPOOKS RETURN TO NIGHT SAFARI Singapore

As darkness sweeps across the Night Safari this October, ghouls, goblins and other creepy creatures of the night return to haunt all mortals as the park transforms into a ‘Haunted Rainforest’ with spooks appearing when you least expect it!

‘Count Dracula’, ‘The Mummy’ and a ghastly gamut of ethereal souls — both Western and Asian — will swarm the Park’s shadowy trails every Friday and Saturday in October at this Halloween-themed event. You can’t miss these spirits of all shapes and evilness!

If you dare, traverse the ‘Bridge of No Return’ when you explore the hairraising Forest Giants Trail and discover what lurks beneath. Beware of uninvited guests though. Capture a scary snapshot at the ‘Haunted Photo Wall’ but be prepared to expect the unexpected.

Thrill seekers keen on spine-chilling adventures should hop onto the ‘Train of Terror’ for close encounters with the inhabitants of the night (and we’re not just talking about our animal residents here!). Hold on as you enter the ‘Gate to Neverland’ — bizarre twists and turns on your favourite fairy tales await.

A taunting haunting nightmare of a time beckons the fearless this October at Night Safari. Don’t get left out of this bone-chilling out-of-this-world experience with the dark side!

Details

Venue:
Night Safari
80 Mandai Lake Road
Singapore 729826

Date:
October 2009
(Activities run on Fridays and Saturdays only)

Time:
7.30pm – 12.00 midnight

Restaurants and retail outlets open at 6.00pm

Price:
Normal admission rates apply $22.00 (adults); $11.00 (children 3 – 12 years)
Normal tram: $10.00 (adults); $5.00 (children 3 – 12 years)
Halloween tram: $13.00 (adults); $7.00 (children 3 – 12 years)

Visit www.nightsafari.com.sg closer to the date for more details!

Video: iFly Singapore Ground Breaking Ceremony Sentosa Island

17 August 2009, Singapore Reinforcing Singapores position as a first-class tourist destination, another exciting development will be opening soon on Sentosa. iFly Singapore, the worlds largest skydiving simulator, celebrated its groundbreaking today in front of more than 100 special guests, including VIPs, esteemed business partners, shareholders, media and Guest-of-Honour, Mr George Yong-Boon Yeo, Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Scheduled to start operations in the second half of 2010 and representing more than S$25 million of investment, iFly Singapore is forecasted to attract more than 100,000 visitors and generate more than S$15 million in revenues in its first year alone. iFly Singapore, will offer anyone from first-time flyers, aged three years and above, to professional skydiving enthusiasts the opportunity to experience the thrills and excitement of the adrenaline-pumping sport in a safe, realistic and affordable indoor setting.

ESPN STAR Sports and Resort World at Sentosa To Create Martial Combat-Asia’s Ultimate Mixed Martial Arts Fight Championship in 2010.

Singapore: Asia’s top sports content provider, ESPN STAR Sports (ESS), today announced a 3-year exclusive partnership with Resorts World Sentosa to create, stage and broadcast a range of world-class sporting events in Singapore, kicking off with the launch of the inaugural MARTIAL COMBAT – Asia’s Ultimate Mixed Martial Arts Fight Championship in 2010.

The MARTIAL COMBAT will feature a grand total of twelve events comprising 60 action-packed fights per year featuring some of the most popular and celebrated Asian fighters and many ranked fighters from around the world. It will receive an unprecedented amount of television coverage from ESS in excess of 60 hours, making it the largest MMA broadcast in Asia. The first leg of events, scheduled on 14-15 May 2010, promises to be a star-studded event showcasing non-stop action, inside a ring, from some of the biggest fighters in the region and from around the world. This will be the first-ever MMA event till date to receive television coverage in 24 different countries in Asia, extensive online support through www.espnstar.com and mobile initiatives through mobileESPN.

Manu Sawhney, Managing Director, ESPN STAR Sports, said, “We are very pleased to join hands with Resorts World Sentosa to kick start a great sports entertainment initiative which we believe has a lot of potential in becoming a signature sporting event in Asia. I am confident that with our event management expertise coupled with the strength of our television networks and digital platforms, sports fans at the resort and across the region can look forward to a highly engaging and entertaining experience”.

Miss Andrea Teo, Vice President of Entertainment for Resorts World Sentosa said: "We believe that through the MARTIAL COMBAT – Asia’s Ultimate Mixed Martial Arts Fight Championship, this professional sport will scale new heights and groom talented fighters into household names. Having a mega tourism destination like Resorts World Sentosa as a venue, will definitely lend buzz to the fights.’’

As Singapore’s only island-integrated resort, Resorts World Sentosa is set to woo tourists with its collection of attractions and hotel offerings. There will also be world-class entertainment to engage visitors, ranging from musical and theatrical to sporting events. The MARTIAL COMBAT – Asia’s Ultimate Mixed Martial Arts Fight Championship will be held at the resort’s Compass Ballroom. The wide array of event facilities and the professional expertise available at the resort are valuable assets in being able to produce high-quality and attention-grabbing events.

This partnership brings together the strengths of ESPN STAR Sports Event Management as Asia’s #1 sports event organizer and the brand new venue and facilities of Resorts World Sentosa. Resorts World Sentosa is scheduled to open in early 2010 and is owned by Genting Singapore. The S$6.59-billion venture will include South-east Asia’s first and only Universal Studios theme park, the world’s largest marine life park, six hotels, a casino, and a host of retail, dining and entertainment options. ESS’s Events Management has managed and promoted more than 1,000 high-profile sporting events around Asia, such as the KIA X Games Asia, KL World 5s, 9 Ball Tour, the FEI Endurance Race, the Standard Chartered FIH Men’s Junior World Cup & Aviva Ironman 2009.

MMA is already one of the world’s fastest growing sports and has dominated the North American pay-per-view scene as the most watched sport since 2006. Its unique combination of a full contact combat sport which also allows a wide variety of fighting techniques, leads to a mass appeal amongst different types of martial arts. In addition to MARTIAL COMBAT – Asia’s Ultimate Mixed Martial Arts Fight Championship, ESS will broadcast a select number of programming from other MMA events from around the world in 2010.

Update: New Monorail Station in the Heart of FestiveWalk

Next stop: Resorts World Sentosa! A new train station for the Sentosa Express monorail will soon be ready in the heart of FestiveWalk, the throbbing hub of Resorts World. The station's location outside the main entrance to Universal Studios Singapore is expected to make the Sentosa Express a popular way for visitors to commute from VivoCity to the theme park and its array of shopping and dining outlets. The station replaces the Waterfront station that was demolished in late 2007 to make way for construction of FestiveWalk.

Singapore begins Construction Of International Cruise Terminal

The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) today marked a major milestone in the construction of the International Cruise Terminal (ICT), a groundbreaking development that brings Singapore closer to realizing its aspiration to be the cruise hub of the region.

Held at the Marina South Pier, within close proximity of the future site of the ICT, the ICT Groundbreaking Ceremony was officiated by the Guest-of-Honor, Mr Lim Hng Kiang, Minister for Trade and Industry. Over 100 guests, comprising key industry partners, attended the event.

To be completed by the end of 2011, the ICT will double Singapore’s berth capacity and enable more cruise ships to home port and call on Singapore and Asia. With the ICT’s deep waters, a large turning basin and lack of height restrictions, the world’s largest ships, such as the Oasis-class ships being built now, will be able to call at Singapore and enjoy dedicated cruise terminal facilities. It will complement the existing Singapore Cruise Center at the Southern Waterfront precinct.

Singapore’s first purpose-built cruise terminal has been designed to ensure smooth and seamless accessibility for both passengers and cruise ships, to achieve quick passenger turnaround of 30 minutes from the point of disembarkation to the point of departure from the terminal. Its state-of-the-art functional capabilities and distinctive nautical-themed architecture harmonious with the terminal’s functions and settings to enhance the sense of arrival for cruise passengers, and will add to the architectural gems of the Singapore skyline in the Marina Bay area.

The new terminal is expected to meet the projected growth of the Asia-Pacific cruise industry, which constitutes about 7 per cent of the world’s cruise market today. The region continues to be a vital source of cruise passengers as well as an exotic and desirable destination for avid cruise passengers from the Western markets.

Asia, with its year-round tropical climate, varied landscapes, warm hospitality and multi-cultural appeal, fueled by the growth of low cost carriers and the traffic that they generate, is fast becoming the new cruise playground. The world’s top cruise players are increasing their presence in Asia and offering more cruises with Asian itineraries.

Addressing the guests at the ceremony, Minister Lim noted that the ICT will harness the positive growth momentum in the region and spur the growth of Singapore’s cruise industry.

“The Asian cruise industry is at the cusp of significant growth, and the opportunities for the region and Singapore are tremendous. The ICT will be a strategic enabler to achieve Singapore’s aspiration to be a cruise hub of Asia and gateway to the region, and testifies to Singapore’s continued commitment to the development of the Asian cruise industry,” he said.

As a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and as the current chair of the ASEAN Cruise Working Group, Singapore is working closely with ASEAN members to create a cruise-friendly environment in the region, develop enticing cruise itineraries and promote ASEAN as a cruise destination.

Cruise lines have also joined hands to further develop the regional cruise industry and establish Asia as a must-visit destination in the global cruise itinerary. Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean Cruises, Silversea and Star Cruise have formed the Asia Cruise Association (ACA) in Singapore, thus entrenching Singapore’s position as a hub for the region.

Said ACA’s spokesperson, Jennifer Yap, “We believe our planned initiatives to promote the development, professional growth and commercial success of the cruise industry will significantly raise the profile of cruising in Asia.”

Ms Aw Kah Peng, Chief Executive of the Singapore Tourism Board, highlighted the growth potential of Singapore’s cruise industry: “Singapore’s cruise passenger throughput has grown steadily, registering a healthy average annual growth rate of 12% between 2003 and 2008. The industry has remained resilient amid the economic downturn, evident in the 20% growth in arrivals in the first half of this year against the same period last year. The STB targets to attract 1.6 million cruise passengers by 2015.”

According to the Singapore Cruise Center, more than 1,000 ships called last year, contributing to a passenger throughput of over 920,000. The majority of these passengers were from Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand and Europe – demonstrating Singapore’s international appeal as a cruise destination. The first half of 2009 saw 540,000 cruise arrivals and it is projected that Singapore will welcome its one-millionth cruise passenger by year end.

Leveraging Singapore’s prime location at the nexus of major international maritime routes as well as its excellent land, air and sea connectivity to destinations worldwide, the ICT will be a strategically located and world-class cruise terminal that will be abuzz with activity all year round. Its location, in Singapore’s new downtown lifestyle and financial hub, will complement business facilities as well as new leisure and entertainment attractions such as the Singapore Flyer, Marina Bay SandsTM, Gardens by the Bay and the Marina Barrage.

The ICT was designed by internationally-renowned architects, Bermello, Ajamil & Partners, Inc. (BA) and RSP Architects Planners & Engineers (Pte) Ltd. JTC Corporation, the leading agency in industrial development, was appointed as the Development Agent of the ICT

Started Filling the Lagoon at Universal Studios Singapore

Photo from Resort World at Sentosa

This picture of the lagoon was taken just one day after theyu turned the taps on. The lagoon will take a whole month to be filled, as it will contain enough water to fill 16 Olympic-sized pools. The longest stretch of the lagoon measures 350 metres, shore-to-shore

Photo from Resort World at Sentosa

Dino on a diet. Don't try this at home. There are the skeletal remains of a dinosaur in Universal Studios' Lost World.

Marina Bay Sands Singapore CONSTRUCTION UPDATE — 29 September 2009

CONSTRUCTION UPDATE — 29 September 2009

Concrete works of hotel towers is completed and steelwork of SkyPark has commenced.

In the South Podium, the roof steelwork is well underway in preparation for roof finishes. Concrete works are completed on level 1, of the Museum with structural steelwork progressing well. Marine works for North Crystal Pavilion piling is completed while piling for South Crystal Pavilion is well underway.

Part of New York City's waterfront precinct is being recreated at Universal Studios Singapore

Photo From Resort World at Sentosa

Part of New York City's waterfront precinct is being recreated at Universal Studios Singapore (USS). Seen here is the first façade for a building at the USS New York zone. The facade is part of the elaborate themed zone that lets USS visitors experience the spirit, energy - and not forgetting the sumptuous food - of America's biggest city. The New York streetscape faithfully recreates the look and feel of New York City in the 1940s with the building architecture, sidewalks, and even the street signs matching those in the Big Apple.

Breaking News from Universal Studio's Singapore

Resorts World at Sentosa


Breaking news: We started filling the big lagoon in Universal Studios Singapore today. It will take about ONE MONTH to fill the entire area. The lagoon is part of the landscape in the theme park. Pictures will come later!

How your going to Stay Cool at Universal Studio's Singapore and Resort World at Sentosa

Peek of WaterWorld at Universal Studio's Singapore

Photo from Resort World at Sentosa

First peek into the stunts at WaterWorld, in Universal Studios Singapore! For more pictures and updates, go