From Concert-goer to NDP Performer: Aricia's Full-Circle Moment at the National Stadium
Published On 03 Aug 2026
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For 24-year-old final-year university student, Aricia Yee, the National Stadium has always been a place filled with unforgettable memories.
Aricia is no stranger to The Kallang, having already attended shows by Taylor Swift, Coldplay and Maroon 5 at the National Stadium. However, she never imagined she would one day be stepping onto the very same stage as a performer.
This year, as Singapore celebrates SG61, Aricia takes the stage as a Chapter 3 performer with Soka Gakkai Singapore. While this marks her third performance in the National Day Parade (NDP), it is her very first time performing in the National Stadium – a venue that has not hosted NDP in ten years.
Photo Credit: Aricia Yee
“It’s really an honour to perform at the National Stadium because the last NDP held here was 10 years ago,” she shared. “It’s also very surreal because this is where I usually come to watch my favourite artists perform. Now, I can’t believe I’m performing on the same ground as them.”
Behind the seamless performances are months of rigorous discipline. Starting as early as April, in the middle of her university finals, Aricia’s Saturdays and eventually Wednesdays, were dedicated to intense preparation. From perfecting dance choreography and preparing their costumes and makeup at the Soka Gakkai Singapore headquarters, to running full rehearsals in the National Stadium in the evening, this demanding schedule is driven by her passion alone.
“Everything happens very quickly once we’re on the actual performance ground,” Aricia said. “One of my favourite parts this year is the finale item.”
Photo Credit: Soka Gakkai Singapore
While performing at the National Stadium has brought exciting new production elements, it has also introduced fresh challenges for her.
“The National Stadium is really big, so we have to be very in sync with our dance steps and the music. That was something I struggled with initially, but our trainers have been really patient in guiding us,” she explained.
The sheer scale of the venue also means that audiences can expect an experience unlike previous years. From impressive aerial performance to dynamic visual effects, Aricia believes the National Stadium adds another dimension to this year’s show.
With university, internships and other commitments on her plate, returning for a third NDP might seem like a daunting commitment. But for Aricia, it’s one she never hesitated to make.
“It’s very easy to get caught up in our studies and internships,” she said. “Whenever I have the opportunity to do something meaningful outside of that and contribute, I’ll always try to do it.”
This year, however, she challenged herself in a different way. Unlike her previous two NDP experiences, where she signed up alongside her friends, Aricia took the leap and registered on her own. It meant stepping outside her comfort zone and embracing the unknown—an experience that reflects this year's NDP theme, "Majulah Singapura, Go Beyond!", which encourages Singaporeans to push their boundaries while contributing to something greater than themselves.
In the process, Aricia discovered one of the most rewarding parts of the experience – the chance to meet people from all walks of life. The friendships she has built over months of rehearsals have become one of the biggest reasons she keeps looking forward to every week.
“What keeps me going is the support from my loved ones, knowing they’ll be coming to watch. I’m also really happy to see my groupmates and trainers every week because everyone is so nice.”
Photo Credit: Soka Gakkai Singapore
As the countdown to National Day continues, Aricia says every rehearsal feels special.
“When we hear the audience cheer for us, it’s a feeling that’s very difficult to describe. It’s very touching because it shows that all our efforts have paid off.”
While audiences will witness dazzling performances and intricate choreography on National Day, Aricia hopes they’ll also recognise the countless hours of preparation behind every performance.
“I hope people will remember that every performer has put in their very best effort to make this possible,” she highlighted. “No matter how small each person’s contribution may seem, every effort is important in creating the bigger picture.”
Be part of the excitement as the National Day Parade returns to the National Stadium for the first time in a decade. Whether you're cheering from the stands or soaking in the festivities around the precinct, there's plenty to experience at The Kallang this National Day.
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