MORE than 160 young performers took the stage last night at the Marina Bay Sands' (MBS) Sands Theatre to sing, dance, juggle and more at the opening night of this year's ChildAid charity concert.

Organised by The Straits Times and The Business Times, the two-day event has raised $2.035 million - a record high since the concerts started in 2005.

The money will go to The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund and The Business Times Budding Artists Fund. The former gives pocket money to children from low-income families; the latter gives underprivileged children and teenagers lessons and other opportunities in the arts.

Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Lawrence Wong was guest of honour. There will be two more shows today.

Last night, the Lim siblings - Emma, 11, Euan, nine, and Evie, seven - were part of a five-member aerial arts group that wowed the 1,600-strong audience. Said Emma, a Nanyang Primary School pupil: "The best part is that we are helping other children."

This year's edition is helmed by musician Iskandar Ismail, a Cultural Medallion recipient, and Mr Jeremiah Choy of Orangedot Productions. MBS is the official venue partner, while Citi Singapore and HSBC are the concert's main sponsors.

MBS chief executive and president George Tanasijevich said: "This is a perfect partnership for us. We have a wonderful theatre here and an exciting environment for the kids to perform in."

Mr Patrick Daniel, editor- in-chief of Singapore Press Holdings' English and Malay Newspapers Division, added: "What makes ChildAid so special and meaningful is the voluntary effort put in by everyone, from the young performers to those working behind the scenes."

FENG ZENGKUN