Achievements

VOICES - A Festival of Song 2016

KR Acapella was invited to perform at the Esplanade Concourse for VOICES - A Festival of Song 2016. We were very humbled by the opportunity that was given to us to sing at Esplanade. This performance was one that brought all six of us together, both alumni and current residents of Kent Ridge Hall, and together we made music that we will definitely never forget.

We spent weeks and countless practices trying to perfect our repertoire. Although our performance was not our best, it was easy to say that the process was definitely worth all the hard work. It was a wonderful and unforgettable experience for each and every one of us, especially for the two freshmen in the group who had never performed in front of such a huge audience.

What I learned in particular was that each of us had our different strengths and weaknesses; but instead of letting that get in our way, we drew from each other’s strengths and helped each other with our weaknesses. We complemented each other really well and really had a whale of time preparing for that very performance.

In addition, we really enjoyed the many performances that each group put up alongside us, in particular, the internationally renowned acapella group from the Philippines, Acappellago, who have been champions in various competitions. It was an honour to sing alongside such talented artists and bask in their presence and their music. We were very proud to be able to represent KR Acapella and Kent Ridge Hall to perform at the Esplanade.

The Rising Star

The Rising Star is a Talent Show for the NUS Hostels Community organised by the Office of Housing Services. There were three rounds of judging – participants had to submit a video audition, and around 40 acts were chosen for the second round, which was a closed live audition at University Town. The Finale night was held on 4th November 2016 at U-Town Green, where the top 10 finalists had the opportunity to perform in public and the same panel of judges determined the winners. The event was hosted by Radio DJ Mike Kasem and 53A was invited as a guest band to perform for the crowd. Kent Ridge Hall is very proud to announce that the top 2 prizes were awarded to both groups with representatives from KR! They are:

First Prize: Please Press Flush (with members from KR Dance – Tian Wei and Yong Qing)
Second Prize: Pigeon Bread (with members from KR Inspire – David, Joshua, Nigel, Rene and Zann)

Thank you to all Kent Ridgeans who came down to support these acts, as well as everyone who offered words of encouragement. Congratulations to our winners!

Acapella Championship 2016

Kent Ridge Acapella has participated in the recent Acapella Championship on 2nd July 2016. Up against strong competitors from NUS Resonance, SMU Voix, and external semi-professional groups, such as The Apex Project, the team emerged Fourth in the Open Category of the competition. The accomplishment by the team is highly commendable given the standards of this year's competition, which was definitely a notch higher than last year's affair.

Despite being formed only 2 months prior to the competition, the team committed to an intensive practice schedule amidst internships, school and work commitments. The team was also extremely privileged to have the kind mentorship and guidance from Mr John Lee, a vocal lecturer at NAFA and proud member of established local acapella group Vocaluptuous. With his help, the team was able to identify their weaknesses and work on them leading up to the competition.

Through it all, it was not only a humbling experience for the team, but also an extremely fulfilling one. The team is proud to be able to stand up against giants in the scene and hold their fort. Following KR Acappella’s impactful performance at the championship, the competing team is currently invited to perform at Esplanade’s annual acapella festival - Voices. As KR Acapella takes the stage once again in December 2016, we would appreciate the support that residents of Kent Ridge Hall can give to the team.

FLAG 16/17

Flag Committee has always been a committee which commits their time and effort for the benefit of the needy through monetary and non-monetary support. Kent Ridge Hall has an outstanding reputation for its performance for Flag Day after years of winning the Best Flag Collection from Halls of Residence. This year, KR Flag managed to rally & bring together close to 350 Kent Ridgeans for Flag Day. We garnered a record breaking total of $199,615.75 for the underprivileged, bringing home the Presidents Shield for the 9th time running. The total sum raise by KR also amounts to 45% of the total amount raised by NUS.

Committee Recognition: Environmental Committee

The energetic members of Kent Ridge Hall's Environmental Committee design and implement environmentally sustainable practices in Kent Ridge Hall. In 2014, the Committee won 2nd runner-up position in the Environmental Award competition organized by the NUS Office of Environment and Sustainability. Kent Ridge Hall's Environmental Committee continues its efforts towards promoting a green lifestyle among Kent Ridge residents. In 2016, Kent Ridge Hall was recognised by NUS Office of Environment and Sustainability for, among others, having the best Eco-Projects among the 6 Halls of Residence. In the year to come, the Environmental Committee plans to spearhead more eco-friendly initiatives. Come be part of this green revolution! Exciting opportunities await!

Hall Production 2016: The Last Memoir

In February 2016, residents of KR came together to produce Kent Ridge Hall’s biennial Theatrical Production, entitled "The Last Memoir". This play was written, directed and produced by our valued alumni and residents. It tackled issues from both past and present, addressing contentious issues of family, gender and politics. Set in 1960s Singapore, a turbulent time in our history, The Last Memoir focused on the lives of a few young adults and the troubles they faced. Held at the University Cultural Centre, our cast of actors and dancers worked tirelessly under the supervision of the directors and alongside our backstage, props, sound and lighting crew, performing three shows over a weekend. The originally-written expressionist script and songs were recognised by COMPASS (Composers and Authors Society of Singapore), who awarded us a grant for the play. With an array of people from all facilities and activity groups working together seamlessly, our production was an excellent platform that showcased and brought out the talents and passion of our residents.

Winner of NUS Office of Student Affairs Student Achievement Award

(Silver, Culture)

Outstanding Residents

IHG awards and Steppers

Kent Ridge Hall was crowned Overall Champions for IHG once again in 2015. We were also crowned overall champions for the male category. Sports that clinched the Gold award were Badminton (Male), Touch Rugby (Both), Track (both), Road Relay (Male), Tennis (Both), Softball, Swimming (Male), and Takraw. Our steppers also participated in the Singapore National Cheerleading Competition, showcasing a spectacular performance of agility and coordination.