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mid-autumn amazement
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02 • WEEKENDER • september 6 - 12, 2013
EVENTS
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
This week’s highlights
WEEKENDER
FUN-TO-DO
IDEAS
film for North Korean cinema. National Museum of Singapore, Gallery Theatre, 93 Stamford Road, www.nationalmuseum.sg, Tel: 6332 3659
Mid-Autumn
Festival
(MAF) in Chinatown
The Penis Society
7 Sep - 4 Oct, 7pm-12am (Sun- Thur), 7pm-2am (Fri & Sat)
Watch as 20,000 colourful lanterns of different shapes and sizes – set to create a new record in the Singapore Book of Records – are officially lit at 7pm on Sep 7 in a kaleidoscope of colours. There will also be a giant lantern comprising over 800 lanterns, with multi-cultural song and dance performances by local and overseas troupes from Taiwan and China, and a spectacular fireworks display. This year also presents the first Chinatown MAF walking trail, and the perennial favourites of a bustling festive street bazaar and carnival (Sep 6-19), nightly stage shows (Sep 7-19) and the
Employing a humorous and piercing concept by award-winning playwright Goh Boon Teck, this original, satirical comedy is a dramatised talk show about male culture in Singapore, and men using their genitals to ruin their careers and lives. Featuring three sharp-tongued and witty gentlemen, this drama is about the reality of desire and the fragility of the mind. Tickets from Sistic. AquaNova, Block C, #01-09, Clarke Quay, River Valley Road, www.toyfactory.com.sg, Tel: 6222 1526
mass lantern walk (Sep 15). New Bridge Road, Eu Tong Sen Street, South Bridge Road, Mosque Street, Pagoda Street, Temple Street, Smith Street, Sago Street and Banda Street; chinatownfestivals.sg Tel: 6323 2758
Moonfest – A Mid-Autumn Festival at Esplanade
Tales of Filial Piety 13-15 Sep, 10.30am & 2pm (Fri), 2pm & 6pm (Sat & Sun), $18 Presented by local theatre company The Finger Players, this interactive stage production tells heart-warming tales of love and filial piety through traditional hand puppetry and shadow puppetry. Recommended for five to eight-year-olds.
13-15 Sep, various times
In celebration of the mid-autumn festival, Chinese artists and traditional art forms, this annual festival seeks to showcase the intricacies of Chinese arts and culture through traditional performances, workshops, talks, opera, ensemble performances, puppetry, stilt walkers, lantern riddles, cross talk, Chinese chess and the popular lantern walkabout. Here are some highlights.
10-29 Sep (except Mon, Fri & 25 Sep), 8.30pm, $26
NEW! Yuan Sha
Guzheng Recital 15 Sep, 7.30pm, $21 (Concession), $30 Listen to one of China’s most famous guzheng virtuosos, Yuan Sha, who is known for her elegant and expressive style. Enjoy traditional classics such as Robe of Clouds, which she will perform solo and in a trio ensemble.
Charms of Northern Shaanxi – Wang Er Ni Vocal Concert 13 Sep, 7.30pm, $35, $45 Be transported to the rich plains of Shaanxi in a captivating evening of Northern Shaanxi tunes with rising star Wang Er Ni, a Shaanxi native, who will perform emotive renditions of familiar folk tunes, accompanied by Ding Yi Music Company.
FREE! Mid-AUTUMN CELEBRATIONS AT CITY SQUARE MALL Until 18 Sep, various dates & times Look forward to delicious treats at the Mooncake Fair, which features mooncakes from renowned hotels and bakeries such as Bakerzin, Four Seasons Durians, ShangriLa Hotel, and more. Redeem a gift and a shopping voucher with the purchase of mooncake box sets from participating stores. There is also a mooncake demonstration and giveaway by award-winning culinary expert Chef Pang Nyuk Yoon (7, 8, 14, 15 Sep), and a weekend flea market (14 & 15 Sep). City Square Mall, 180 Kitchener Road, www.citysquaremall.com.sg, Tel: 6595 6565
Various locations around Esplanade, 1 Esplanade Drive, www.esplanade.com NEW! Wu Opera Excerpts: Heroes
& Heroines 15 Sep, 8pm, $28, $38 (Concession); $48, $58 Wu Opera is considered to be the predecessor of Peking Opera, and focuses on acrobatics, stunts and singing elements. The Zhejiang Wu Opera Research Centre will perform four of their signature excerpts based on valiant heroes and heroines from familiar Chinese operatic works such as Female Generals of the Yang Family, White Water Shoal and Romance of the Three Kingdoms.
Check out these events over the next two weeks NEW! Celebrations! Floral Display 9 Sep - 6 Oct, 9am-9pm, $8 (Child & Senior Citizen), $12 (Adult) For the Mid-Autumn Festival, "lantern flowers" such as fuchsias and abutilons (broadleaf plants), blooms such as chrysanthemums and goldenrods and lanterns with traditional Chinese paper cuttings will adorn the Flower Dome. Gardens by the Bay, Flower Dome, 18 Marina Gardens Drive, Tel: 6420 6848 FREE! NEW! Colourful Expressions Until 29 Sep, 10.30am-7pm (Tue-Fri), 10.30am-10pm (Fri-Sat), 10.30am-6pm (Sun) An Australian painter, photographer and musician merged their art forms to explore and redefine their notions of colour. The musician, Peter Fogarty will be playing at the exhibition opening to provide an aural experience to complement the vibrant artwork done in an abstract, edgy style. Kooka Café, 18 Purvis Street, www.colourfulexpression.wordpress.com NEW! Cooking Class - Around the World with Sophie & Remy 10 Sep, 10am-12.30pm, $88 (per adult/child pair) Take a cooking journey with your child and learn traditional recipes from Executive Chef Jean-Charles Dubois from Balzac Brasserie. Taken from the children's cookbook, “Around the World with Sophie & Remy” that he co-authored, participants will learn how to make Indian butter chicken (Murg Makhani) with basmati rice, Italian dessert - chocolate milk tiramisu and French dessert - Brittany Crepe with bananas. They will also receive a $60 goodie bag inclusive of the cookbook. Tools of the Trade, Cooking Studio 2, 896 Dunearn Road, #01-01, www.balzacbrasserie.com FREE! NEW! Come cannibalise us, why don’t you? Until 31 Jan 2014, 10am-7.30pm (Tue-Sat), 10am-6pm (Sun), Closed on Mon & Public Holidays The colloquially-titled artist installation by Erika Tan revisits and adapts artefacts from another exhibition together with newer artworks including film, sculpture and works on paper to reveal the rules and contextual considerations of the colonial museum in Malaya.
flea market. Sentosa Siloso Beach, 51 Imbiah Walk, www.sentosa.com.sg
NEW! Green Tea Workshop 14 Sep, 2.30-3.30pm, $15 Learn how to brew, taste, and enjoy the entire tea experience of Pre-Qing Ming Dafo Longjin, PreQing Ming Biluochun and more. You will also learn which the appropriate vessels to use are. Sign up at peonytsgreentea-eorg.eventbrite.com Bukit Batok Community Centre, Conference Room, 21 Bukit Batok Central, #03-09
FREE! NEW! Silver Arts – Celebrating Seniors and the Arts Until 15 Sep, various times The Silver Arts Exhibition shows the artistic talents of seniors, who were assisted by five local artists in creating photo journals of yesteryears’ memories, paintings, rangoli art (Indian folk art), ceramic sculptures and sound art. Other seniors can also participate in the workshops, performances and exhibitions that advocate meaningful aging through the arts. These include Happy Baton 3, a music and wellness programme that marries Chinese instrumental music with music conducting exercises (Sep 8), a carnival-inspired light installation created with recycled materials (Sep 7 – Oct 8), and a drumming extravaganza. Various locations, nac.gov.sg
FREE! MAMA’s BAZAAR & FAMILY FUN WEEKEND 2013 28 & 29 Sep, 10am-7pm Come support over 40 mum-preneurs (mothers juggling home-based businesses as they take care of their children) at this bazaar full of fun-filled activities, stage presentations, kids’ goodies, vendors-led workshops and personal sharing by famous mum-preneurs. Toa Payoh SAFRA, www.singaporemumpreneur.com FREE! NEW! Malay Culture Fest 2013 Until 22 Sep, various times This festival commemorates the first anniversary of Malay Heritage Centre's reopening with a slew of traditional and contemporary programmes by local and regional performances. Enjoy Malay films in an outdoor setting, or join workshops, lectures, concerts and cultural performances. Malay Heritage Centre, 85 Sultan Gate, www.malayheritage.org.sg, Tel: 6391 0450 NEW! Panda Party Week at River Safari 7-15 Sep, various times, $17.50 (Senior), $16 (Child), $25 (Adult) For giant pandas Kai Kai and Jia Jia’s first anniversary in Singapore, a line-up of festivities such as free guided tours at the Giant Panda Forest await visitors of the River Safari. The panda awareness booth allows you to learn more about the pandas from wildlife volunteers, feel the teeth of a giant panda, or even catch a whiff of panda poop. Kids can test their knowledge with the panda trail activity sheet. For a small fee, face painters will turn you into a panda, and there will also be a panda-themed photo booth. River Safari, 80 Mandai Lake Road, www.riversafari.com.sg, Tel: 6269 3411 FREE! Sentosa Buskers Festival 2013 7-15 Sep, 4.30-10.30pm, Admission & parking charges apply This festival gathers the best buskers in Singapore and around the world to entertain you with performances from different cultures, with traditional juggling, modern day mine and so on. Have a taste of being an acrobat with the help from a local circus school, or check out the food street, beer garden and
Photo: National Arts Council
now on
VEG Gallery, National University of Singapore Museum, 50 Kent Ridge Crescent, www.nus.edu.sg/museum, Tel: 6516 8817
NEW! SING LIT 101: HOW TO READ A SINGAPOREAN POEM 14 & 28 Sep, 12 & 26 Nov, 1am-1pm, $10 per session (Student), $20 per session If you have always found poetry difficult to enjoy, literary critic and poet Dr Gwee Li Sui will demystify Singapore poems by introducing the writer and the times, and reveal the poems' meanings and implications. In Sep, he will cover Dragon-fly by Wong May, and "My Country and My People" by Lee Tzu Pheng. The Arts House, Screening Room, 1 Old Parliament Lane, www.theartshouse.com.sg, Tel: 6332 6900 FREE! NEW! The BIG Furniture Fair 2013 7 Sep, 12-10pm Furniture and furnishing products will be going on sale at incredible prices at this furniture fair. Check out the innovative designs and interior decor for your home's needs - you will also receive attractive free gifts if you shop. Singapore Expo Hall 7, 1 Expo Drive, singaporeexpo.com.sg NEW! The Flower Girl 10 Sep, 7.30pm, $9 Set in the 1930s during the Korean independence movement, The Flower Girl tells the story of a poor family oppressed by their cruel Japanese colonial masters. It is based on a revolutionary opera written by Kim II-sung, and is the first international breakthrough
FREE! NEW! The Pencil Heads 7 Sep, 8pm The Pencil Heads will be playing hard rock covers and original songs at BluJaz Café for a good cause. Donate generously, as the band’s fee and a percentage of the bar takings for the night will go to the Singapore Red Cross. 11 Bali Lane, www.blujaz.net, Tel: 6292 3800 FREE! NEW! WORLD VOICES PRESENTS SHEREEN EL FEKI 6 Sep (7.30pm), 7 Sep (11am) Presented by the Melbourne Writers Festival and The Arts House, Shereen El Feki will talk about her first book Sex and the Citadel, a non-fiction piece that explores sex attitudes in the Arab society, her journey to writing the book and her findings. The Arts House, Screening Room, 1 Old Parliament Lane, www.theartshouse.com.sg, Tel: 6332 6900
Coming Soon Mark your calendars for these events happening in three to four weeks FREE! NEW! Peregrination of Colour 10 Oct-22 Nov, 11am-6pm (Mon-Sat), Closed on Sun & Public Holidays Sujata Bajaj's first solo exhibition captures harmony and disorder with what she describes as "a dance of colours" in her paintings. Fiery reds, intense blues and incandescent yellow ochre in her paintings convey vigour and control and engulf the viewer in a different realm. Indigo Blue Art, 33 Neil Road, www.indigoblueart.com, Tel: 63721719
Preview Choice event picks coming in a month or more BJORN AGAIN In Singapore 8 & 9 Nov, 8pm (Fri), 2.30pm, 8pm (Sat), $45 The only ABBA show endorsed by the ABBA members, Bjorn Again's action-packed show will feature ABBA's greatest hits. Listen to Take a Chance on Me and Knowing Me Knowing You, and other classics performed Bjorn Again style. Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, www.bjornagain.com.au, Tel: 6688 8826 Bloomberg Square Mile Relay 24 Oct, 6pm, $995 (Early bird discount; for 10 runners), $1,250 Happening outside of the UK for the first time, this inaugural Singapore edition will see 200 corporate teams of ten runners racing a one-mile course through the Central Business District. Register at www. squaremilerelay.com/singapore/register-your-team by Sep 20 for the early bird discount. The Promontory @ Marina Bay, 11 Marina Boulevard, Tel: 6329 3535 NEW! The Merchants of Bollywood 5-10 Nov, 8pm (Mon-Fri); 4pm, 8pm (Sat & Sun) This theatrical dance charts the enchanting history of this prolific film industry and a dynasty of Bollywood stars in a fictional story of a young girl, her grandfather and their love for dance. With swirling colours in costumes and sets and high-energy music, this lavish production will reveal to the audience the role Bollywood plays in the Indian society. Tickets from Sistic. MasterCard Theatres, www.merchantsofbollywood.com. au, Tel: 6688 8826
VOLUNTEER EVENTS Lend a hand or spend your time meaningfully NEW! FREE! Bizlink Centre Packing 11 Sep, 8.30am-5.30pm Join non-profit organisation Bizlink Centre in helping the disadvantaged, especially the disabled. Over two weeks, you can play a part in mentoring and working together with the beneficiaries in simple packing jobs aimed at helping them integrate into society through employment opportunities. Volunteers are encouraged to sign up for more than one day. Marina Bay Sands, Convention Hall, 10 Bayfront Avenue, www.bizlink.org.sg NEW! FREE! Door-knocking at French Road 10 Sep, 6-8pm Pair up with staff to engage residents at French Road and offer educational and social support, listen to their ideas and contributions about how to improve their neighbourhood, and to help them form a supportive network among themselves. Volunteers must be above 16 years old. French Road, www.beyond.org.sg, Tel: 6375 2940 NEW! Servathon 2013 6-7 Sep, 9pm (on 6 Sep) - 6pm (7 Sep), $15, $20 Take part in the first-of-its-kind community service marathon as project leader, photographer, videographer or participant. For the ten-hour race, they will pack necessities and daily supplies into 10,000 bags. These will be distributed to homes and centres over 20 Servathon community projects island wide by those in the 21-hour race. Register by 5 Sep. Chinese International School, 60 Dunearn Road, www.citycare.org.sg
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If you would like your event listed, please email the details and pictures (where applicable) to events@weekender.com.sg 2 weeks before your event date.
Listings must arrive in email Wednesday two weeks before publication. Listings are free but, as space is limited, inclusion is not guaranteed. Nevertheless, we try our best to include every listing possible. All events listed here are accurate at the the time of print, or are listed as stated by the organisers. Please check with the relevant organisers and contacts for more information and to book tickets.
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
september 6 - 12, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 03
04 • WEEKENDER • september 6 - 12, 2013
ENTERTAINMENT
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Power 98 Music Review
MOVIE PREVIEW 1
Money must be funny, but not to the celebrities whose houses were burgled
Based on a true story of a gang of teenagers that broke into celebrity houses, the movie exposes the vapid and materialistic Bling Ring
The Bling Ring:
American dream,
New Mayer
one heist at a time
not for
the masses he dabbles in folk and root-sy Americana too. The album is a collection of 11 tracks filled with raw emotion; songs that tell stories like only John Mayer can, and with plenty of slide-guitar.
Listening to John Mayer’s new country sound had me craving FOR fried chicken By Sonja Steinmetz John Mayer has a new album out but I have a feeling it will not be getting much airplay on pop radio stations because the king of soft-rock ballads has gone all country. The Evolution of Mayer After last year's Born & Raised, which hinted at Mayer's interest in the genre, Paradise Valley takes his love for country a step further. Influenced not just by country,
Take that, Taylor Swift Perhaps the most radio-friendly song, reminiscent of the old John Mayer, is “Paper Doll”, which many claim is his response to Taylor Swift's song, "Dear John", that dissed the way he treated her when they dated. Speaking of ex-es, John invites on-again off-again and apparently yet on-again girlfriend Katy Perry to duet with him on "Who You Love", a tender song giving us a glimpse into how their relationship developed. R&B "It" boy of the moment Frank Ocean also guests on this album, on standout "Wildfires Pt. 2" which isn’t very R&B at all. And, at a run time of 1 min 28 sec, it makes you wish for more. Hardcore Mayer fans may take a while to warm up to his new sound but, no matter, there's a whole new audience for him to charm. Knowing him, he undoubtedly will. W
What have you done with Hermione Granger?
“Hardcore Mayer fans may take a while to warm up to his new sound…” Start your day with Sonja Steinmetz on The Power Breakfast Show, together with Hubert Tang and Jamie Yeo, on weekdays, 6am-10am, on Power 98FM.
About Sonja Steinmetz DJ Sonja Steinmetz has hair like Maggi mee but is more of a ramen girl herself. She hasn’t met a cat she doesn’t like and enjoys yoga on Sunday afternoons. Tune in to her on Power 98.
Obsessed with the glitz and glamour of celebrity life, a group of teenagers broke into celebrity houses and stole more than $3 million of valuables and luxury goods. Their celebrity victims included Paris Hilton, Orlando Bloom, Rachel Bilson and more. The media quickly dubbed them the Bling Ring. Upon arrest, the group was more proud of the notoriety and infamy they had gained than the hoard they had amassed from their heist. The Director’s Findings Director Sofia Coppola says,
MOVIE PREVIEW 2
Some of the aerial manoeuvres are quite eye-opening
“I read the transcripts from the journalist and police reports and met some of the kids to try to understand as much as I could! For example, I thought about being in a group of friends and the stupid things you do when you’re that age, and how you want to fit in.” Coppola even stopped by the cell to speak with a few of the individuals of the Bling Ring to fully understand the thought process behind their actions. Good Looking Cast Emma Watson stars in an eyeopening role as Nicki, a pole dancing yoga teacher. Georgia
Television 1
Fun Facts
Root for Dusty as he turns from zero to hero
The Bling Ring [M18] Director: Sofia Coppola Starring: Emma Watson, Gavin Rossdale, Katie Chang and Taissa Farmiga Genre: Crime, Drama Run Length: 91 min Release: Sep 12
Ring of Fire chronicles the tumultous relationship between June Carter and Johnny Cash
Burning hearts Popular singer Jewel is convincing as another popular singer
Planes: Flights of fancy
Dusty (voiced by stand-up comedian Dane Cook) is a cropduster with big dreams of being the fastest air racer in the world. The catch is, he is not built for racing, has never flown above 1,000 feet and has a phobia of heights. His boss, a grumpy Leadbottom (voiced by Cedric the Entertainer), has no time for his far-fetched dreams. Undeterred, Dusty finds a seasoned but reclusive naval aviator, Skipper Riley (voiced by Stacy Keach), who was an ace flier and instructor in the prestigious Jolly Wrenches squadron until an
Special Appearances One of the actual victims of the Bling Ring, Paris Hilton, also makes a special appearance as herself. She even allowed her real house to be used for filming. Paris says, “She [Coppola] told me about this project. And of course I know a lot about the actual story because I was involved with it in real life… I really was at clubs with these kids who were wearing dresses they had stolen from my closet right in front of me and I had no idea!” Coppola sums it up: “…I think it [the film] looks at our culture today and the reality TV phenomenon, and how that has affected this group of kids; and I’ve tried to tell the story from the kids’ point of view and see how it’s fun and exciting, and then hopefully by the end of it you get another perspective that they have taken it too far.”
Ring of Fire:
Planes is fairly long for an animation, and can be quite emotional
A crop-duster wants to do more than what he was designed to, and to reach greater heights
Rock plays Emily, Nicki’s eager-toplease younger sister, and Taissa Farmiga (younger sister of Vera Farmiga) plays Nicki’s adopted sister, Sam. Katie Chang also stars as the ring leader, Rebecca, and Claire Julien plays Chloe, the bad-ass of the group. Keep an eye out for Israel Broussard who portrays Marc, the new kid on the block.
incident left him grounded for life. Personal Realisations While coaching Dusty to qualify to take on the villainous Ripslinger, who is the defending champion of the race circuit, Skipper finds that he has lessons to learn, and comes to terms with his past. “When he [Dusty] gets a chance to step out of his comfort zone and challenge himself, he surprises everyone including himself,” says director Klay Hall, who also directed King of the Hill and The Simpsons. Other Quirky Characters World racing champion Ripslinger has the best funding and equipment, and sidekicks Ned and Zed to sabotage the competition if all else fails. Dottie (Teri Hatcher), a forklift who is also Dusty’s loyal friend and mechanic, has Dusty’s back and keeps his high-flying
dreams in check. There is also an element of romance between two racers – the charming Mexican legend, El Chupacabra (Carlos Alazraqui), and the elusive Rochelle (Julia Louis-Dreyfus). On the whole, Disney’s Planes is a highly-relatable film with both heart and humour. Disney’s Planes [G] Director: Klay Hall Starring: Dane Cook, Stacy Keach, Teri Hatcher, Brad Garrett, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Cedric the Entertainer Genre: Animation, Adventure Run Time: 95 min Release Date: Sep 5
• Director Klay Hall comes from a long line of aviation enthusiasts – his father and grandfather were pilots. • Sounds of real-life planes were recorded to bolster the authenticity of the flight scenes. • A phobia specialist was consulted to learn how acrophobia might manifest itself in Dusty’s actions, such as sweating and dizziness. • Dusty’s close-ups are created nearer to the audience than his adversary’s Ripslinger’s close-ups, to subtly invite the audience into Dusty’s inner life. • Most of the airplane designs are completely fictional except Skipper and El Chupacabra, who were based on real planes; Dusty was inspired by the Air Tractor 502, Cessna and the Air Dromader. • Skipper is an F4U Corsair fighter plane, developed in 1938 at the request of the US Navy and first utilised in WWII. El Chupacabra sports the design of a Gee Bee, an aircraft during early days of air racing. • Teri Hatcher’s daughter, Emerson, 15, was also involved in the film – she voiced reporter Pitty.
Jewel stars as country singer June Carter Cash in this movie based on the narrative of the son of the legendary Johnny Cash, on his mother's life In Ring of Fire, a Lifetime original movie, four-time Grammy Award-nominee Jewel stars as renowned country singer June Carter. An Insider’s Exposé Based on John Carter Cash’s [the son of legendary musician Johnny Cash] narrative of his mother’s life, “Anchored in Love: An Intimate Portrait of June Carter Cash”, Ring of Fire delivers a heartfelt telling of June’s life, from her early beginnings in the rural mountains of Virginia to her turbulent yet enduring marriage to Johnny Cash (played by Matt Ross). Told as only an insider could, Ring of Fire recounts June’s
meteoric rise to fame with The Carter Family, considered the First Family of country music, before breaking out on her own. She would later become a legend in her own right. When Legends Collide Taking a personal look at June’s first two marriages, life with her daughters and touching relationship with her son, the movie showcases her infamous courtship with Cash. It also places in the spotlight June’s heroic role in saving his life during his battles with substance abuse. Last but not least, Ring of Fire also depicts how her unwavering faith in God, confidence and talent has left a legacy for subsequent generations. Musicians and Cast Members Golden Globe award-winning actress Frances Conroy stars as June’s mother, Maybelle Carter, while musician John Doe portrays her uncle, AP Carter, the founding member of the famous group. Ring of Fire also features Grammy award-winning country outfit The Peasall Sisters, as The Carter Sisters. Don’t miss this epic film about the tempestuous relationship and legacy of two musical legends. Ring of Fire will be re-telecast on Lifetime, Starhub TV Ch 514, on Sep 17.
september 6 - 12, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 05
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
FASHION
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Modern oriental with Kae Hana Local designer Kae Hana wows us with her take on oriental prints By Cheryl Chia
Manolo Blahnik Following an absence of almost three years, the most recognisable name in shoes is returning to our sunny shores. You can start channelling your inner Carrie Bradshaw once more. Located in Takashimaya’s Shoe Salon, Manolo Blahnik will begin retailing this weekend on Sep 6.
Coach
With warm Autumn colours, Coach Men’s Fall II 2013 presents its latest collection of accessories and outerwear. Interesting highlights include an Origami iPad Case, a Stacked Leather Pencil Cup and a leather Scrabble set.
FASH SNIPS Stirrings in the fashion world that you would need, want and love to know about Nixon
Fabindia
Who says oriental prints have to always be cheesy or over the top? Local designer Kae Hana begs to differ. Kae Hana launched her self-titled brand in 2012, after working for an employer for a few years. “I wasn’t allowed to do what I wanted. So, finally, I thought, just do it. So I joined Parco Next Next,” says Kae Hana. Kae Hana, who has a Degree in Fashion Design, has always felt an affinity with prints. She says, “Prints can change the way you look. Like how striped prints can either make you slimmer or fatter. Prints show my personality as well as the comfortable and easy-towear cuts of my clothing.” “Essentially, it is a really narcissistic way of telling people what I like. And I hope they like it too!” she laughs. Slowly & Steadily She has always been interested in fashion since she was a child.
“I told my mother when I was 13 that I wanted to be a fashion designer but, of course, she told me, ‘You’ll grow out of it.’ but now I’m living it and it is great!” she says. Kae Hana is currently stocked at the Threadbare & Squirrel on North Bridge Road and Hook & Union at Orchard Central. “When I first started, my initial target audience was from 28 to 35 but I realise that I get women as young as 18 and as old as 65 buying my designs. My designs are for women that don’t give a damn; they like versatile clothes and practical wear.” SHOW APPEARANCES Kae Hana has also taken part in the Audi Fashion Festival 2013 and will be taking part in Digital Fashion Week in November, as well as Women’s Fashion Week. She also plans to take part in the Blueprint
Nixon takes you through life’s adventures with functionality and style. We especially like The Honey & Molasses ($239-$729) collection with handmade glossfinished acetate in golden tones and rich ochre. The Blues Collection ($219-$339) is tricked out with matte gunmetal, stainless steel and blue tinted crystals for a rugged yet refined look. Located at Tangs outlets, Ion Orchard, Robinsons and authorised retailers.
Fabindia, a portmanteau of “fabric” and “India”, has a curated collection of India-inspired menswear, womenswear, accessories, gift ware and a range of home furnishings. Located at Paragon Shopping Centre, Level 4.
tradeshow next year. Her Spring/Summer 2013 line, “Ride the Winds” shows her oriental inspiration mixed with modern motifs, while her upcoming Autumn/Winter collection “Welcome to the Jungle” draws inspiration from animal prints. Parting Shot “Singaporeans pick up trends quickly. Most importantly, try something you are comfortable with. I like to prove people wrong by constantly refreshing the oriental look and redefining what people believe in,” she says. Visit the store at Parco Next Next at Millenia Walk or www.facebook.com/kae. hana.the.label.com for more information.
Levi’s
Guess
This Autumn, Guess’ signature silhouette exudes the design of a “his for her” timepiece. This modern wrist accessory is created by fusing men’s sport-watch elements with sophisticated feminine flare. For the high-powered girl, this unique silhouette elevates the concept of menswear-inspired fashion to a stimulating new level. Available at 313@Somerset, Plaza Singapura and authorised retailers.
Levi’s launches its new ladies Levi’s Revel jeans for the perfect shape. Using exclusive Liquid Shaping Technology that controls the stretch in strategic areas, this ensures a figure hugging fit that lifts and defines your body for a beautiful silhouette. Available at Levi’s retail stores.
ENTERTAINMENT Television 2
youtube
See the true story of a man-eating super snake
Cooking with
Monster Week:
Terrifying yet
a difference
fascinating behemoths
Be very afraid. Animal Planet’s Monster Week will terrify yet fascinate you with these reallife giant monsters
Could it be possible that mermaids once existed?
Witness the first-ever, and only, footage of the elusive 18-metre monster of a squid, and a host of other gargantuan man-eating beasts. Even mythical creatures are not left out. The Beasts are Back Animal Planet presents Monster Week, a two-hour special programme every night beginning Sunday, Sep 8, at 9pm. Be amazed by stories about some of the world’s most legendary and mysterious creatures. This week-long special digs deep into the fascination with the unknown and proves that there are still real monsters lurking out there! From the depths of the sea to some of the most remote areas of the world, Monster Week uncovers the most enigmatic creatures to ever live, and even takes on some of mythical origin. Fear, Fact or Fiction? Elusive giant squids, infamous great white sharks, monster crocodiles, and even mandevouring snakes and prehistoric fish still inhabit the Earth. But what about legendary cryptids
such as mermaids, Bigfoot or blood-sucking chupacabras? Monster Week kicks off with the planet’s greatest mystery of the deep as the first-ever footage of a live giant squid is revealed in Legends of the Deep: The Giant Squid. Ground-breaking Discovery Come face to face with a full-grown, 18-metre razortoothed giant squid, known as Architeuthis to scientists, whose eyes are the size of dinner plates. This is considered by many to be the Holy Grail of natural history filmmaking. Previous attempts to capture a live giant squid on camera in its natural habitat had failed. The ground-breaking footage of the massive predator swimming in the deep waters of the Pacific Ocean was captured by scientists – 530m below the surface. It was a culmination of an ambitious decade-long project to film the creature in its natural environment. More Majestic Monsters Also premiering as part of
Chefs with Heart:
Catch never-beforeseen footage of the 18m giant squid
Monster Week is the all-new four-part series – Swimming with Monsters with Steve Backshall. Follow this wildlife expert and adventurer as he joins forces with behavioural experts and scientists to get closer than ever before to some truly monstrous beasts and to attempt the unthinkable – to swim with these animals, discover their true nature and to challenge the myths and misconceptions that surround them – something no scientific team has ever attempted due to their unpredictability and extremely aggressive behaviour. Next, catch the premiere of Mermaids: The New Evidence, as Animal Planet continues to look into the possible existence of these sirens of the sea which have long captured the imagination.
This science-fiction special revisits the topic with more indepth investigations of these fantastical creatures based on scientific and evolutionary theory. Don’t miss these as well as Man-Eating Super Squid, Devoured: Man-Eating Super Snake Returns and ManEating Super Croc. Can these man-eating beasts be stopped, or is this the beginning of Monstermageddon? Explore the giant wonders of the animal kingdom on Monster Week to find out. Monster Week begins on Animal Planet, Starhub TV Ch 424, on Sep 8, at 9pm.
“...a full-grown, 18-metre razor-toothed giant squid, whose eyes are the size of dinner plates.”
Sharks are one of the most common yet terrifying monsters of the ocean
The first two episodes HAVE been aired on YouTube. Catch the trainees from underprivileged backgrounds as they learn to cook
Chef Benny Se Teo runs a tight ship
Catch the first two episodes of Chefs with Heart, the reality show featuring 12 trainee chefs from underprivileged backgrounds, on YouTube now. The Skills Behind Cooking After Chef Benny orientates them around the wet market and teaches them to cut ingredients such as onions, red peppers and cucumbers, a task not as simple as it sounds, he demonstrates how to toss pasta. Also, see who will be the winner of their first egg challenge. In the second episode, guest Chef Bernard See teaches them how to prepare their first dish, Mesclun salad, a French salad made of seven types of vegetables. The second dish is aglio olio, followed by fried rice. The episode shows the participants hard at work in the kitchen, and they will learn up to nine dishes. This will culminate in a dinner showcase. There are a few funny moments as contestants goof up while cooking. Criteria of Cookery For the judging, 80 per cent is
“There are a few funny moments as contestants goof up...” based on presentation, taste and hygiene, and the remaining 20 per cent come from a group of special guests and food bloggers who will be giving their comments. Chefs with Heart was conceptualised by Josephine of Just Cinnamon. Celebrity chefs Willin Low and Heman Tan were roped in as guest trainers. The successful apprentices will be employed in one of the three chefs’ restaurants after the series. Watch this heart-warming programme to find out the winning dish each week, and pick up culinary tips from chefs. Chefs with Heart episodes can be watched on YouTube at www.youtube.com/channel/ UCD2i9A6NO3ghfEUpYNm1rkA.
06 • WEEKENDER • september 6 - 12, 2013
FOODMANIA
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Masterful creations at Silk Road Restaurant Get the best of Chinese cuisine in aN innovative menu preserving the wholesome goodness of provincial cuisine
The specially-designed packaging for SunnyHills' pineapple cakes
Sick of mooncakes? Have pineapple cakes
Alternative Gifts SunnyHills’ pineapple cakes have taken Taiwan and tourists by storm. Every morsel is made with SunnyHills' golden brickshaped pineapple cakes
gourmet flour from Japan and butter from New Zealand, and the reddish-gold yolk is from the Sunny egg farm, a sociallyresponsible farm where classical music is used to inspire the breeding process. SunnyHills’ pineapple cakes are also halal-certified, making them suitable gifts for Muslim friends.
Innovative Menu With an innovative menu, Silk Road Restaurant has managed to retain the wholesome goodness of traditional homemade food. Start with their palate-teasing appetisers presented in elegant, dainty portions, such as Sliced Pork with Cucumber on Bamboo Rack. It is undoubtedly a delicacy.
Special Festive Pack SunnyHills pineapple cakes now come in a specially-designed festive pack just for the MidAutumn Festival. These cakes, sealed individually for freshness, contain no additives and are filled with organically grown, sunripened pineapples, straight from their farm.
Must-Try Dishes Chef’s signature’s mouthwatering, succulent roast meats and Beijing Roasted Duck Handmade Noodles with Prawn, Fragrant Oil, Garlic and Chilli
Reasonable Prices SunnyHills' Mid-Autumn boxes of pineapple cakes retail in boxes of five, ten, 15 or 20 pieces and range from $13.80 to $50. Their store at Raffles Hotel also carries a limited edition oolong tea - while stocks last – perfect for washing the cakes down. SunnyHills has a pop-up store at Takashimaya Atrium’s MidAutumn Fair until Sep 19. Visit www.sunnyhills.com.sg for more information.
• • • •
Circle Sunflower Oil 2 tablespoons of Thai fish sauce 3 garlic cloves (crushed) 1 onion (diced) Parsley to garnish
TIP: Use a little less water if you prefer fluffy rice.
1. Cook rice with water for 30-35 minutes. 2. Heat oil in wok. Fry garlic lightly until brown, add pork until lightly cooked. Add onion, tomato puree and Thai fish sauce. 3. Sautee for 3 minutes then add rice mix well and cook. Garnish with parsley and serve.
WEEKENDER GIVEAWAY CONTEST 5th September – 11th September, 2013
Win a One Year supply of Royal Umbrella Rice and Golden Circle Sunflower Oil 30 consolation prize winners
TO WIN
Answer a simple question:
What Vitamin is found in Golden Circle Sunflower Oil?
10kg Royal Umbrella Rice Golden Circle has a long history, with the introduction of its flagship product, Golden Circle Corn Oil. Over the past two decades, catching on changing consumer trends, Golden Circle has launched a variety of healthy cooking oils, such as the Golden Circle Sunflower Oil and Golden Circle Canola Oil. Golden Circle Sunflower Oil is a great source of Vitamin E and contains Omega 6. It is 100% natural and cholesterol-free. It is suitable for stir-frying, and as a salad dressing. Golden Circle contains zero cholesterol and is free from trans-fat, for health-conscious consumers.
Silk Road Restaurant, 165 Tanjong Pagar Road, Amara Singapore, Level 2, Singapore 088539; lunch: 11.30am-3pm daily, dinner: 6.30pm-10.30pm daily; Tel: 6227 3848; www. amarahotels.com/dining
From now to Sep 19, 2013, celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with Silk Road Restaurant's ensemble of traditional baked or delicate snow skin moon cakes, consisting of two new snowskin flavours, Mao Shan Wang Durian and Yuzu Vodka Cello Truffle.
By Cheryl Chia
METHOD
2 lucky winners
are gastronomic perfection, whetting your appetite for even more glorious dishes ahead. Their Pan-Fried Cod Fish with Spicy Sichuan Sauce is tantalising on the taste buds, and the Handmade Noodle with Chilli, Garlic & Fragrant Oil is a must-try. The Sichuan Pancake and Poached Pear with Ginger and Organic Honey Jelly are sweet and fulfilling finales to the meal.
Escape to Paradiso Restaurant & Bar at Quayside Isle
with pork • 750g of Royal Umbrella Thai Hom Mali Rice • 900ml of water • 300g of pork (finely sliced) • 3 tablespoons of tomato puree (canned) • 1 tablespoon of Golden
1st Oktoberfest Asia to premiere in Oct 2013 Get ready for great authentic German beer, food and entertainment as the first Oktoberfest Asia premieres in Singapore this Oct 2013 The inaugural Oktoberfest Asia premieres in Singapore this Oct 16, with a four-day festival filled with authentic Bavarian beer, food and entertainment. It promises to be a one-of-a-kind experience in Asia. From Oct 16 to 19, revellers and beer enthusiasts will be treated to exclusive Bavarian beer, traditional German gourmet grub and authentic entertainment all the way from Munich, in the comfort of an air-conditioned marquee. Authentic Food & Entertainment Traditional German cuisine, such as schweinhaxe (pork knuckle), bratwurst (sausages), meatloaf and goulash will be available, while an assortment of beers and liquors will be sold at the Bavarian themed bars. Beer maidens in dirndls (traditional Bavarian dresses) will walk the halls serving beer and pretzels.
Keeping true to the spirit of all things German, Oktoberfest Asia will feature the iconic band, The Original Hofbrauhaus Show, from the beer halls of Hofbrauhaus in Munich [one of the oldest breweries in Germany]. This world-renowned group has been entertaining for over 23 years and is one of the original troupes for Oktoberfest in Munich. The festival will also have a local touch with live performances from local comedic act, The Comedy Pimp. Further Details & Tickets Oktoberfest Asia is organised by Dreamfields – which has an exclusive network of European beers and spirits – and Matt Bennett of Beerfest Asia. The four-day Oktoberfest Asia boasts support from some of Bavaria’s finest breweries: Paulaner Brauhaus, Schneider Weisse and Spaten. Paulaner and Spaten are two of the six official breweries in the actual Oktoberfest in Munich. Oktoberfest Asia will take place at the Keppel Island Plaza at the Marina at Keppel Bay. Individual early bird tickets are priced at $75 for weekdays and $85 for weekends. Thereafter, prices will be $85 per ticket and $650 per table of eight for weekdays; and $95 per ticket and $700 per table of eight for weekends. Tickets are available from Sistic.
Quayside Paradise
TOMATO RICE Ingredients
Premium German beer Schneider Weisse is imported by Dreamfields
The Silk Road of China has a colourful history, having thrived with trade activities. This birthed teahouses providing snacks and tea for travellers. Now the best of these regions’ cuisine, of Sichuan, Shaanxi, Liaoning and Beijing, has been brought to Silk Road Restaurant, through the culinary expertise of specialty chefs from China.
In some cultures, the usual Mid-Autumn Festival treats have made way for the sweeter and lighter tasting pineapple cake The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated in Singapore, Vietnam, Taiwan, China and other countries. It celebrates the full moon and Chang E, who ascended to the moon in attempt to protect an elixir bestowed upon her husband Hou Yi. There are other legends but today it is mainly celebrated by giving and eating the usual baked mooncakes with sweet lotus paste. All mooncakes start to taste the same after a while. If you would like a change from the usual, why not try pineapple cakes? In Taiwan, the pineapple cakes started out in cubes with rounded edges. SunnyHills created the brick-shaped blocks to give it a modern touch, and it is now so popular that other bakeries have come up with similar shapes.
Deep Fried Wasabi Prawn Ball with Crispy Potato
AND Simply SMS to
9056 2958
“Oil” <space> “Your Answer” <space> ”Name” <space> “NRIC” <space> ”Age” <space> ”Gender” <space> ”Home Address” <space> ”Postal Code” Sponsored by
A great choice for healthier cooking!
Limited to 1 entry per week per NRIC. Visit www.weekender.com.sg/terms.html for contest Terms & Conditions.
Walking along the picturesque waterfront of Quayside Isle, you almost do not feel like you are in Singapore. For a break from the hustle and bustle, head down to the ninemonth-old Paradiso Restaurant & Bar for some Latin fun. Rich Latin American Flavours Started by the Cuba-Libre Group, Paradiso Restaurant & Bar serves Latin-American tapas and largeplated dishes. We liked the Crema de Champinon ($10), a sautéed button mushroom dish in a garlic cream sauce, and the Calamares es Tomate y Pimenton ($14), squid rings simmered in tomato concasse infused with paprika. Both are good dishes to pair with their house mojitos. True to Latin American roots, the mains are fairly large in
Mariscos a la Valenciana
portion and made for sharing. The Mariscos a la Valenciana ($32) is a large pan of paella with Arborio rice cooked in prawn stock topped with a seafood mixture of prawns, squid, mussels, fish and vegetables. We had to pace ourselves as it was hard to put down the spoon.
Sharing is Caring Other mains such as the Pollo Al Mojito ($24), chicken with a mojito glaze served with patatas bravas – potatoes in spicy tomato sauce - and sautéed beans, and the Calamares Rellenos ($24) were also hot favourites at the table. The cheesy stuffed squids atop Cuban rice were comforting. For a Latin take on fish and chips, the Bacalao en Salsa de Limon ($26), which is deep-fried
cod with lemon dill sauce, is not bad at all. Sweet Surrender Don't miss out on the dessert of Nutty Banana Rum ($12), banana baked in a mixture of spices, rum and mixed nuts, or Leche Frita ($12), deep-fried breaded custard with black fruit sauce. Paradiso Restaurant & Bar, Quayside Isle, 31 Ocean Way, #01-03, Singapore 098375, Tel: 6694 5428
WORD OF MOUTH Seen and heard of the best of local Singaporean Food
The comfort of porridge Be it as a supper dish after a night out, a stomach-soothing breakfast or a comforting warm dish when sick, the quintessential bowl of porridge is the food most Singaporeans turn to in good times and in bad. Here are a few good porridge stalls to check out. Tiong Shian Porridge Centre This porridge has a generous amount of pork slices in the congee. Also, try their fish slice or fish head congee with raw fish on the side, as well as their frogs legs porridge. 265 New Bridge Road, Singapore 088745 Gen Shu Mei Shi Shi Jia This stall combines two different types of rice, and adding oil in the cooking process makes the
porridge more fragrant. Block 74 Food Centre, Toa Payoh Lorong 4, #01-03, Singapore 310074 Soon Lee Soon Lee sells Hainanese-style porridge. It is thick and warm, and with generous amounts of fresh, savoury pork. Block 448, Clementi Avenue 3, #01-50, Singapore 120448 Hoe Kee Fans of century egg porridge would love this. There are copious amounts of century egg and minced pork in a bowl, and it makes a filling meal. Maxwell Road Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur Street, #01-45, Singapore 069184 Zhen Zhen This famous stall serves porridge
so smooth that it is almost like a puree. It is also chock-full of fresh ingredients. Maxwell Road Food Centre, 1 Kadayanallur Street, #01-54, Singapore 069184
september 6 - 12, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 07
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Experience char-grill at
retro-hip Sumiya
Chill out and savour quality Japanese food at this trendy, retro-hip Japanese izakaya and charcoal grill restaurant By Lester J Wan
with a menu especially for that.
The DIY Charcoal Grill is one of the highlights, and has little smoke
Tucked in a peaceful alcove in the heart of town, Sumiya, meaning “charcoal house”, is a fresh concept and a delight. As you enter, you are greeted by drumbeats and enthusiastic waitresses dressed in traditional work clothing known as samue (similar to the yukata). The restaurant has a homely, relaxed feel with individual and communal wooden dining tables, Japanese drums and other traditional decorations. No expense has been spared to create a sentimental and
RECIPE
deep fried items ($6-$8.80++), Sashimi ($8.80++), Sushi ($7.80++) and others. The Takoyaki ($8.80++) here is especially good, as the chef comes from Osaka, from where this tasty little octopus snack originates. Happy Hour & Lunch Sets This month, Sumiya also launches a new lunch menu, with many set lunch options. Select from 13 different sets, ranging from $16++ to $26++. In addition, the drinks bar is free flow during lunch time at just $3++ per person. What’s more, Sumiya has joined forces with Asahi to pledge “Every Hour is Happy Hour” with Asahi draft beer at the lowest price in town at $4.90++ per mug. Do pop by to check out the great food, sentimental decor and cheap drinks. From the customers present, it is apparent that many Japanese nationals have given their stamp of approval. The best part is, even on weekdays, the last order is at 10pm. W
Stand a chance to win hampers of home essentials worth $50 each! Submit your very own recipe using rice and oil to: syarila@weekender.com.sg
DO YOU HAVE
A WINNING RECIPE?
Your entry must include a recipe, the picture of the dish, and these particulars: • Name • NRIC • Home Address • Telephone Number
Last day of Submission: 30 Sep 2013 Sponsored by
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Gastronomic privileges with The Far Card get fine dining privileges with complimentary membership for The Far Card
The best of Sumiya is in the Chef's Char-Grilled Skewers
Sumiya Charcoal Grill Izakaya, Orchard Central, 181 Orchard Road, #12-02 (rooftop), Singapore 238896, Tel: 6509 9618
Berry Jell-o with Fruit Cheesecake Cups
makes 14 plastic cups of Berry Jell-o with Fruit Cheesecake.
By Deborah Yap
authentic setting for dinners, with handpicked vintage pieces such as classic enamel signs, copper crockery, glassware, and other classic souvenirs. There are about 50 of these items from yesteryear, worth about $20,000 in all. In fact, each section of Sumiya has its own unique character. One section is even designed to look like the old Japanese eateries below metro rail tracks in the 1960s. This setting certainly evokes nostalgia. There is also an al fresco terrace especially for a do-it-yourself (DIY) garden barbecue experience,
DIY Charcoal Grill & Chef’s Char-Grill Sumiya features a bountiful spread with various options as it specialises in Izakaya or Japanese-style tapas (a large variety of small dishes). One highlight is its DIY Sumiyaki Charcoal Grill. Although it is a charcoal grill, there is very little smoke unlike the usual type of charcoal barbecue we are familiar with. The Soft Smoked Squid ($4++) is delicious, with a rich taste, and it has a soft and fluffy texture. Yet another highlight is the Chef’s Char-Grilled Skewers, seasoned with salt, teriyaki or miso. These charcoal-grilled fish, meat and vegetables are speciallydesigned by Sumiya's Japanese Master Chef. The Char-Grilled Pork Belly ($4++) is tender, juicy and tasty. The Char-Grilled Beef ($4++) is also tender, and the flavour comes through well. There is no need for seasoning other than a bit of salt. The charcoal fire seals the essence of the food, making it crispy on the outside and juicy inside. The smoking charcoal effect also enhances the flavour. True to a traditional Izakaya menu, Sumiya also serves an array of other dishes such as
FOODMANIA
INGREDIENTS • 1 to 2 cups of crushed digestive biscuits (about 12-14 pieces) • 6 tablespoons of melted butter (125g butter) • 1 ½ packs of softened Philadelphia cream cheese (250g + 125g) • 1 cup of QWhip instant whipped cream topping • ½ cup of sugar • 2 tablespoons of milk • 1 ½ cups of cold water • 1 pack of Jell-o strawberry/ raspberry flavour sugar-free gelatin • 2 cups of boiling water • 2 cans of Mandarin oranges or 250g sliced strawberries METHOD 1. To prepare the crust, mix the crushed digestive biscuits with
the melted butter and press into the base of each cup, and chill them for 30 minutes. 2. Beat the cream cheese, sugar and milk; whisk until blended. 3. Using a metal spoon, stir in QWhip topping into cream cheese mixture. 4. Spread the mixture over the crust or base, and refrigerate until ready to use. 5. In a separate large bowl, pour gelatin mix and add boiling water and stir for 2 minutes until completely dissolved. 6. Stir in cold water, then refrigerate. 7. After 1 to 1 ½ hours or when Jell-o is slightly thickened and wobbly, and before it becomes totally solid, stir in the fruit. 8. Spoon the Jell-o over the creamed mixture.
The Far Card offers exclusive privileges at restaurants and bars
9. Chill for 3 hours or until firm, then serve. NOTES 1. Put the digestive biscuits in a zipped plastic bag and use a rolling pin to crush them finely. 2. Add more butter if you feel your base is not as solid as it is supposed to be. 3. To test if Jell-o is wobbly, use the back of a metal spoon and make a swirl, if it leaves a definite impression, your Jell-o is ready. 4. Plastic cups can be found in SKP supplies shops. Deborah has just started a new blog at batterdayswithdeb. wordpress.com
VARIATIONS 1. If you prefer something salty for the base, an alternative would be using crushed pretzels. 2. You can vary Jell-o flavours, such as peach and orange.
One of the most prestigious dining programmes, The Far Card, has become just that little bit more accessible for American Express premium card members. Exclusive Dining Privileges The Far Card membership offers exclusive privileges at sought after restaurants and bars including JAAN, Mikuni, Equinox Restaurant, Prego, New Asia, Crossroads Bar, Alligator Pear, Blue Potato and more. American Express Platinum Card members will receive a complimentary The Far Card Gourmet Membership worth $588 while the Platinum Reserve and Platinum Credit Card members
will receive a complimentary The Far Card Classic membership worth $415.16. Up to 50 Per Cent Savings Both cards come with yearround dining and other exclusive privileges with up to 50 per cent savings, for unlimited visits to a collection of restaurants. Also available are special complimentary accommodation and spa vouchers at luxury hotel properties such as Swissotel The Stamford, Fairmont Singapore and Swissotel Merchant Court. Visit www.thefarcard.com for the latest updates.
08 • WEEKENDER • september 6 - 12, 2013
BE HAPPIER
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
I
The struggles and tension between the members of the family and their maid are highly relatable
lo Ilo, Singapore’s awardwinning film at the recent 66th Cannes Film Festival, has opened in cinemas. It is the first Singaporean feature film to win a major prize at Cannes. This Singaporean story that charmed Cannes is about a family struggling through the 1997 Asian Financial Crisis and centres on the relationship of a ten-yearold boy and the family’s Filipino helper. Director Anthony Chen was both surprised and ecstatic at the win. At the press conference, he revealed that he had called his wife and she was so excited that she asked if she could make it in time for the after-party if she were to catch the next flight from the UK [where she was] to France.
8 Questions
with Anthony Chen
We managed to get an interview with this busy new celebrity director to find out how it felt and how life has changed for him. 1. When did you realise you wanted to be a filmmaker? I made the decision at 15 when I was exposed to foreign language films which expanded the idea of cinema for me. While everyone was spending Sec 3 and 4 mugging for ‘O’ Levels in Chinese High, I was reading about film directors and their careers in the library. I knew then I wanted to go to film school, and found out about Ngee Ann’s School of Film and Media Studies. It was the only film school available in Singapore at that time. I’m not sure if any particular director was my inspiration then, but Ang Lee certainly is my inspiration now. 2. Could you tell us a little about your previous productions? I made ten short films before Ilo
Ilo. G-23 was my first short, a graduation film I made at Ngee Ann. It surprised me when it screened at over 50 film festivals and won multiple awards in Europe and Asia. That gave me more confidence to go on making films. My second short was Ah Ma, which won a Special Mention at Cannes. This was a rather personal film that was made after the passing of my grandmother, so I really never expected it to be selected at Cannes. I went on to make more shorts at the National Film and Television School in the UK when I pursued a Masters in Film Directing. 3. What are scenes in the film that are similar to your own experiences? It is very much inspired by my memories of growing up in ‘90s Singapore. I had a Filipino helper who was with us for eight years; she shares the same name as the title character, Teresa. She is from Ilo Ilo, that’s why the title. 4. How did it feel winning the Camera d'Or at Cannes? What was going through your mind? It is an incredible honour, not just for me or the film, but for the country. It is a significant award for Singapore
Many Singaporean families have a live-in domestic helper
We interview Singapore’s Cannes Film Festival winner on how it felt and how life has changed By Lester J Wan
cinema. I was just telling myself to not make my country “lose face”, don’t say the wrong things and remember to thank the right people. After all, it was broadcast live across Europe. 5. What challenges did you face in filming Ilo Ilo? There were so many, from casting to finding the right locations, props and costumes to get the period right. I had a supportive core team, particularly my Director of Photography and my Assistant Director, who fought really hard to realise my vision. It was a painful struggle but I made a point to try as much as possible to not compromise. 6. How has life changed for you since you won? I have been fielding interviews in different countries and also in Singapore for the past three months. I haven’t had time and space to really think of what’s next. Hopefully I will get to do some soul searching on one of the many flights in my busy travel schedule. 7. Are you afraid of higher expectations now? There is pressure of course, but I have learnt that I can live with it as long as I put in my heart and soul into every project. Then, even if it does not do as well whether critically or in terms of numbers, I still feel I have given it all. If I allow the weight of expectations to take over, it will kill me very quickly. I hope to keep grounded and aim to preserve integrity in whatever next project(s) I decide to do. 8. What are your thoughts on Singapore? I think we have so much potential that needs unearthing; sometimes we try so hard to be something we are not. I do feel we just need to learn to be ourselves. W Ilo Ilo opened in cinemas on Aug 29 in Singapore and Sep 4 in France.
Anthony Chen receiving the Camera d’Or at Cannes, with Zhang Ziyi
Yeo Yann Yann’s portrayal of the mother is very real
Brielle D. Gicana Born Feb 18, 2013
Nicklas Rosenkrands Born Jul 7, 2012
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Nur Syafiqah Born Jan 23, 2013 Yii Ang You Born Aug 9, 2012
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Babies - aren’t they the cutest things ever? That’s why Weekender dedicates a section to your adorable darlings in diapers. Send us your favourite photos of your newborn, so the rest of us can coo and ‘ahh’ over him / her too! What better way is there to celebrate your child than to share him / her with the rest of the world?
WORLD Email your photos to
general@weekender.com.sg . Please make sure to include your baby’s name and surname, gender and date of birth. We look forward to receiving photos of your loved one!
Olivia Oo En Yi Born Jan 29, 2013
Lim Jing Wen, Jeraldine Born Sep 15, 2012
Audriana Hafina Bte M Namazie Born Jun 14, 2012
Jacey Lee Born Jan 6, 2013
Max Kua Born Dec 12, 2012
September 6 - 12, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 09
FAMILY & FRIENDS Focus on the Family Tip
The power of
affirmation The power of positivity and affirmation is infinite. See how you can use it to help your child grow
G
iven a choice between a compliment and criticism, who wouldn't choose a compliment? Unfortunately, though, some parents forget this when they talk to their children. Psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, "It takes nine affirming comments to make up for each
critical comment we give to our children." The Need for Affirmation It's true that all normal human beings respond to praise. In fact, we crave affirmation so much that we're likely to do almost anything to receive it. This is especially true of children. As someone said, "Whoever gives your kids praise and attention has power over them." If you don't affirm your children, I can assure you that someone else will. And that could be a drug dealer, a gang member, or anyone else who could harm them.
Affirmation for Positive Growth Many people with lifestyles contrary to your own are willing to praise your kids to get what they want from them. This, in fact, is the technique routinely used by paedophiles to abuse the lonely child. Giving your kids affirmation, encouragement and attention is one way to keep them on your team. Take a strategy from the popular book, The One Minute Manager. It says, "Catch your employees doing something right." Well, why not catch your children doing something good and reward them for it? You might be surprised by the positive effect it will have. W Used by permission of Focus on the Family Singapore. For more parenting resources, visit www. family.org.sg.
“why not catch your children doing something good and reward them for it?”
10 • WEEKENDER • september 6 - 12, 2013
HEALTH & BEAUTY
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Vitamin C goodness and more
A regular dose of Vitamin C prevents scurvy and other ailments. Have you had your dose today?
VITAMIN C AND ZINC Effervescent Vitamin C and Zinc, 20 tablets
F
rom the 1500s to 1800s, scurvy, a Vitamin C deficiency disease, was common among sailors. Perishable fruits and vegetables could not last as long as the voyages, due to the lack of refrigeration, and many of those who spent much time at sea suffered symptoms of bleeding gums, and a decrease in appetite. This went on until the 20th Century, when English sailors brought lemons, containing Vitamin C, on long-distance voyages. Slowly, scurvy began to disappear.
While scurvy is known to be caused by nutritional deficiency, today, with affluence and improvement in nutrition, scurvy is rare. The human body is not able to produce Vitamin C on its own, and it does not store Vitamin C, so having a regular intake of Vitamin C from one’s diet is vital. Why Vitamin C? A study published in “Seminars in Preventative and Alternative Medicine”, that reviewed more than 100 studies over ten years, revealed a growing list of the benefits of Vitamin C intake. For one, many consume Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, when they feel an impending bout of flu. Even though extensive research has shown that high doses of Vitamin C are ineffective in preventing the common cold, it may reduce the duration of the cold slightly, as well as the severity of symptoms. Most of us are aware that Vitamin C is needed to promote resistance to infections and to further build our immune system against deficiencies, as well as helps in the growth and repair of body tissues, healthy bones, gums and teeth, and even healing wounds. Multiple Benefits Vitamin C also helps one’s body to
produce collagen - an important protein needed to make skin, cartilage, tendons and blood vessels. It also helps with iron absorption, and protects Vitamins A and E and fatty acids from oxidation. Even though Vitamin C does not lower cholesterol levels or reduce the overall risk of heart attack, evidence suggests that it may slow down the hardening of arteries, help to protect them from damage, and may even help to keep them flexible. In addition, population-based studies evaluating groups of people over time suggest that consuming foods rich in Vitamin C may reduce the rates of certain cancers, such as skin cancer and cervical dysplasia (pre-cancerous changes to the cervix). How Much Is Enough? In Singapore, the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) is 105mg for men, and 85mg for women, according to Health Promotion Board guidelines. Smokers may require slightly more, as smoking depletes Vitamin C in the body. Cantaloupe, bell peppers, kiwis, strawberries and lemons are excellent sources of Vitamin C. You can also get it from grapefruit, broccoli, mangoes, Brussels sprouts, tomatoes and blueberries.
Vitamin C is sensitive to light, air and heat, so you can get the most of it from consuming fruits and vegetables that are raw or slightly cooked. However, it is impractical and very difficult to include the required servings of fruits and vegetables daily to obtain the Vitamin C level for optimal health benefit. This is where supplements come in. Holland & Barrett retails a range of Vitamin C supplements to suit your nutrition needs and preferences, as well as a wide range of natural health products of high quality at the best value-formoney price. Timed Release Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids; 1,000mg, 60 caplets The timed release formula is popular these days, as it is designed to provide longer lasting action with the vitamin slowly released over an extended period of time. This ensures that the body gets a steady supply of Vitamin C throughout the day. Effervescent Vitamin C Tablets High Strength; 1,000mg, 20 tablets For those who prefer imbibing a bubbling glass of Vitamin C over taking tablets, there is the effervescent Vitamin C Tablets
High Strength. Effervescent Vitamin C allows the vitamin to be quickly absorbed into their bloodstream. One can also opt for the Effervescent Vitamin C and Zinc – both are nutrients that contribute to the immune system’s regular function and protect the cells from oxidative stress.
formula called the non-acidic Ester-C contains naturallyoccurring Vitamin C metabolites, and is quickly absorbed. Its unique manufacturing process neutralises pH, making it gentle on the digestive system. Excess Vitamin C in the body is passed out through urine, so there is no need to worry about excessive intake as long as it is within 1,000mg. Head down to one of Holland & Barrett’s 23 outlets including at CityLink Mall, #B1-61; 313@ Somerset, #B3-08; VivoCity, #B227A or Wisma Atria, #B1-47, to get some Vitamin C supplements today. W
Non-acidic Ester C with Bioflavonoids Caplets For those with problems taking the regular Vitamin C formula, they can take the non-acidic Ester C with Bioflavonoids Caplets, which come in 500mg caplets of 90. Its breakthrough patented
C-1000
Vitamin C-1000mg, with Protective Bioflavonoids and Wild Rose Hips, 1000mg
Ester-C
Vitamin C with Citrus Bioflavonoids, 500mg
september 6 - 12, 2013 • WEEKENDER • 11
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED WITH FUN AND HAPPINESS
TRAVELATION
For a pdf copy of Weekender visit: www.facebook.com/weekendersgp
Pink Everlastings
Be surrounded by a sea of colour
Catch the colours of the
wildflower season F
rom June to November, the State of Western Australia bursts into a kaleidoscope of wildflowers. This multisensory experience is truly one not to be missed. Ranked as one of Western Australia’s most precious and beloved natural assets, the state enjoys a season that starts in the Northwest before sweeping South with carpets of colour lighting up its beautifully-rugged landscapes to the Southwest.
The Adorable Florables
“Around 60 per cent of Western Australia’s wildflower species are found nowhere else in the world...”
Rare Flowers & Beautiful Landscapes Western Australia is home to a massive 12,000 wildflower species, more than the rest of Australia combined. Around 60 per cent of Western Australia’s wildflower species are found nowhere else in the world. North of Perth along the Coral Coast, Kalbarri National Park comes alive in August while, inland, the rare and revered wreath flower (Leschenaultia Macrantha) can be found at Paynes Find.
The Wildflower Festival at Kings Park
Murchison Wildflowers
Don’t miss out on this kaleidoscope of colours as the wildflower season begins in Western Australia Mullewa is another blossoming town, with hake, heath brush and spider orchids creating a sea of colour. A short drive away, the Coalseam Conservation Park becomes carpeted with a stunning display of pink, gold, cream and white everlastings. The South of the state hosts a magnificent floral display from September, with areas such as Esperance, Pemberton, Denmark, Northcliffe, Albany, Margaret River and the Porongurup Ranges springing to life with rare and exquisite flora.
encompasses an extensive calendar of events and activities for everyone. There will be live music each Sunday, family fun days, wildflower walks, art exhibitions and much more, to bring together the best of Western Australia in one of the world’s most spectacular parks. Children will be thrilled with the Adorable Florables, Kings Park’s famous wildlife characters. There is something to suit everyone and most events are free. Go to www.bgpa.wa.gov.au/ events/kings-park-festival to find out more about the festival and the programme of events and activities. The Wildflower Festival lasts until Sep 30.
Kings Park Wildflower Festival A highly popular attraction for locals and visitors alike, the annual Wildflower Festival in September sees inner-city Kings Park and the Botanic Gardens mark the arrival of Spring with more than 1,700 wildflower species. This year marks the Festival’s 50th birthday, with the theme “50 Years of Flower Power”. This celebration and showcase
Wildflower Trails A self-drive holiday is one of the best ways to discover Western Australia’s stunning wildflowers. Choose from one of Western Australia’s 11 Wildflower Trails, each offering a unique collection of species over vastly diverse landscapes. Or, you can book a travel package and make planning your wildflower experience even easier. Go to westernaustralia.com/ wildflowers for more information. Why hesitate when it is so near, and convenient to go? Perth is just a five-hour flight from Singapore via Singapore Airlines, Qantas/ British Airways, Jetstar and Tiger Airways. W
Fancy inventing your own hotel? An innovative competition for students in hospitality training has been launched
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ABOUT US We are a Social Enterprise! Besides enriching the lives of our readers, we provide training and employment for disadvantaged Singaporeans from CDCs, ISCOS and IMH. Editorial Director Frank Young frank@weekender.com.sg Editor Lester J Wan Writer Cheryl Chia Contributor Chia Hui Jun
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Accor Asia Pacific has invited hospitality students across Singapore to join a new competition that will help to identify the hoteliers of the future, and to provide the opportunity to showcase their skills to senior Accor executives. Task: Reinvent Novotel The region-wide competition will see 300 student teams qualify for the contest which will encourage them to focus on a real Accor case study: to Reinvent Novotel Hotels. Participants must demonstrate creativity and boldness and come up with the best concept as they imagine the next generation of Novotel hotels in terms of products and services to match guest expectations for the year 2020. The competition is organised in three rounds where students need to use their best photography and video editing skills, and the ability to convince both in writing and orally to obtain the highest opinion scores on the online voting site at www.accortakeoff.com. The final decision will then be made in front of a jury made up of Accor Asia Pacific senior regional executives. Professional Opportunities & Free Trip On top of an incredible experience and exposure to Accor regional leaders, the winning team will win a fabulous five-day trip including travel, accommodation and excursions to one of the group’s hotels either in Seoul, Hong-Kong, Bali, Phuket or Bangkok. Patrick Ollivier, Senior Vice President, Human Resources, Accor Asia Pacific, said, “Our objective is of course to increase exposure to Accor within the student community and identify great talents with a real passion for the hospitality industry.” Graham Wilson, Senior Vice President, Sales & Marketing, Accor Asia Pacific is also enthusiastic about the new initiative. “It gives Accor Hotels the privileged opportunity to interact directly with students and listen to their suggestions in order to develop the future of our world-class brands,” he said. Further Details Accor runs this contest annually but this year it is particularly focused on the Asia Pacific region. Round 1 begins on Sep 16 and will last until Oct 2. The 300 participating teams will be whittled down to 50 by the end of the round. The final round, from Nov 25 to 27, will see the winning team emerge from among the five finalist teams.
EDITOR’S PICKS
TRAVEL & HOTEL PROFESSIONALS: Submit your great travel deal for our readers. Email cheryl.lim@weekender.com.sg Include destination, duration, price, type, brand/agent, contact no., and photo (if applicable). Space is limited and selection is solely at discretion of Weekender. T&Cs apply. DESTINATION
PRICE
TYPE AGENT/AIRLINE CALL
1st Pax from $2,388, Group (Italy, Swiss, Germany, Holland, Belgium, France, London) 2nd Pax from $1,588 10/11D Mesmerizing Europe
Ho Wah Travel
6536 3393
11D Central Europe Highlights
Fr $1,988
Group
EU Holidays
6535 8535
17D Canadian Rockies+Alaska Cruise
$5,888 (Inclusive of Tax)
Group
EU Holidays
6535 8535
4N New Zealand Fly Drive Holidays
Fr $940/pax
FIT*
Jetabout Holidays
6734 1818
4D3N Osaka Hotel Package + Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan
Fr $269/pax
FIT*
PYO Travel
6336 2022
H.I.S. International Travel
6222 1230
EU Holidays
6307 7878
7/8D Romantic / Winter Hokkaido Fr $2,188/pax Group (Exclusive offer: Less $400 per couple) 7D New Taste of Taiwan by SQ
Fr $799/pax
Group
7D Super Value Taiwan by SQ Fr $688/pax FIT* H.I.S. International Travel
6222 1230
Fr $398/pax
FIT*
A D Travel
6535 8588
4D3N Krabi Free & Easy with 4 island hopping tours Fr $388/pax
FIT*
Asia Pacific Travel
6535 3433
3D2N Hong Kong + 3rd Night FREE
3D2N Bangkok (Ma Du Zi boutique hotel stay) Fr $308/pax FIT* Fascinating Holidays
6735 5511
3D Bangkok Fr $188/pax FIT* H.I.S. International Travel
6222 1230
Terms & Conditions: Prices may change without notice. Please confirm with the respective agents for the final prices and details. *Fully Independent Travel
Editor’s Choice
12 • WEEKENDER • september 6 - 12, 2013
YOUR INSPIRATION TO A WEEKEND FILLED with FUN AND HAPPINESS
Weekender is published by Weekender Group Pte Ltd, 80 Playfair Road, #02-03, Blk A, Singapore 367998. Printed by KHL Printing Co Pte Ltd, 57 Loyang Drive, Singapore 508968.