Jean Gan Charity Concert 2007

3 whole months of practically preparing for the concert finally arrived. Of all Jean Gan concerts that i have had the pleasure of attending, this was one of the most last minute one put together to date. ....but pull it through we did. Everyone were amazing.... gritted their teeth, and give it their all (time and sweat and maybe some lost dates and etc) to see it through, be it rain or shine.

As a teacher of Jean Gan Academy, i was tasked to put together 2 items - a modern jazz for my 13-15 yr old kids and also a salsa item (which i insisted that Jean Gan include... family entertainment or non, as SALSA was something new being offered at the studio) with my 17-18 yr old students.

Scrambling for costume pieces and accessories was something that i have to faced day in day out. Let's see it must be showy without being too sexy, shiny, glitter and definitely must be one size fits all.... ie, everyone must look good , despite the fact that people come in all shapes and sizes. My sis, and some close friends would attests that i spent weeks on costume hunting alone. Many a times, i buy things that didn't even make it on stage.

Choreography was another thing that one have to deal with. Inspiration was not very forthcoming, except for the occasions where the caffeine i took prior to classes kicked in. As such, not only was the choreography for my modern jazz item only done 1-2 weeks prior to concert, the salsa bit where the ladies in black and silver joined the rest of my teenager salsa dancers was done and taught within 2 classes (on the same week as concert day).

Therefore, I would like to take this opportunity to thank Fen Ning, Audrey, Darren, Kuok Peng, James Quah, Jacques, and my sis (adrienne), for volunteering their time and energies for this last minute do. Guys , and gals ......Your patience and willingness to help out is deeply appreciated. Thank you for putting up with the choreography and the pot stirs and what nots.... esp Adrienne who rarely attempts any stunts.

I think Sophia, one of our beloved phileo flowers as we call ourselves ( ie, sophia, fen ning, audrey, adrienne, lih yee and myself) who happens to be busy preparing for her wedding day on June 30th and still make time to be a part of the concert , says it best "It had been stressful and fun journey with endless practises, rehearsals and concert shows .. not to mention about the never ending sewing of the sequins on the costume. Nevertheless, it's been a great vast of experiences and funny moments we shared together.. i did enjoyed all the makan-makan supper session with some fattening food although i should be on diet ;*).. i can sum it up.. it's worth it all!"

Despite everything, all the gripes and tempers flaring, i must say the concert has indeed allowed a few individuals to blossom. I have noticed, how people who are usually non committal , becoming committed, I have seen some who are afraid to try new things , practise and practise to get it perfected, I have watched how someone have grown to becoming a more complete individual. These transformations are priceless.

Jean Gan's 2007 Dance Galore concert has touched me in many ways possible...besides it being an opportunity to raise funds for the needy, as well as to allow talents to shine, it has become and avenue to encourage and allow individuals to realise their strenght , dedication and determination. Most importantly it has allowed me to learn from it.

On a high note, it was also a pleasant surprise to see so many SALSAJAYERS sparring their Sunday afternoons to come and show their support. Let's see, at the last count.... there was at least 23 of em... your cheers really make it all worthwhile. So thank you , thank you, from me and the rest of the SalsaJayer performers , for being at Auditorium DBKL last Sunday.... your presence does make a difference.

THANK YOU JAYERS! YOU GUYS ARE THE BESTEST.............. !