A story of making dreams come true through song, dance and AI at ChildAid 2024
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ChildAid performers at a rehearsal at the SPH Media auditorium on Nov 24.
ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOO
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SINGAPORE - Riley’s job is to make children’s dreams come true – but not all of them.
Dreams are pouring into The Dream Emporium from children everywhere, but with only one Riley, who decides which dreams come true?
Felix, The Dream Emporium’s newest recruit, is shocked when he realises that Riley’s algorithm favours certain wishes over others.
In this 20th edition of ChildAid, the annual children’s charity fund-raiser organised by The Straits Times and The Business Times, watch Felix experience the dreams of children and risk everything to “fix” Riley through song, dance and theatre – and even a little artificial intelligence (AI).
Proceeds from ChildAid will go towards The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund and The Business Times Budding Artists Fund.
The Dream Emporium will be showing at The Esplanade on Nov 29 and 30, starring 83 performers aged eight to 19.
The show celebrates each dream that comes true, while acknowledging that not every child is given the same opportunities in life.
“It’s about acknowledging the fact that people can dream, but whether those dreams come true is a different story,” show director Krish Natarajan
“If we as a society understand that and work towards helping everyone achieve their dreams, I think we’ll be living in a better world,” Mr Natarajan, who wrote the musical, said.
Among the 83 performers were Ren Nakao, who plays Felix, and Divyasree Ravichandraraja, who plays Riley.
Ren Nakao (in blue) practising with other ChildAid performers at a rehearsal on Nov 24.
ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOO
Speaking to ST after a full-dress rehearsal on Nov 24, the 14-year-olds said they are looking forward to performing, and have enjoyed their ChildAid experience, despite long hours of rehearsals and juggling schoolwork.
The show also features 12-year-old Nur Anisah Daaniys Mohammad Sufian, who is visually impaired.
The show has something for everyone, from fans of Taylor Swift to fans of Guns N’ Roses, and whether you prefer the violin or the Electone.
Nur Anisah Daaniys Mohammad Sufian (centre, pink dress) singing at the ChildAid rehearsal on Nov 24.
ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOO
As the curtains draw to a close, the audience is invited to share their dreams for the next generation, and their dreams become part of a collaborative AI masterpiece.
Mr Joshua Quek, co-creative and multimedia director of the concert, said this edition of ChildAid represents “20 years of helping kids”. “That’s why it’s special,” he said.
After watching the rehearsal, ST editor Jaime Ho said the exuberance and optimism of the cast and crew were unmistakable and infectious. “That they were children talking about, and to, their dreams only made all their performances all the more meaningful. I can’t wait for the show, and what it will do in fund-raising for a worthy cause.”
The Business Times’ editor Chen Huifen told the performers that she was very proud of them. “I can see a lot of effort – every step, every note, every moment that you are here on stage. I feel very inspired.”
ChildAid 2024 – The Dream Emporium
Where: Esplanade Theatre, 1 Esplanade Drive str.sg/CA24-show
When: Nov 29, 7.30pm; Nov 30, 2pm (gala show) and 7.30pm
Admission: $28, $38 and $68, via Sistic (go to
