Singapore’s annual ChildAid charity event will return this year with a new festival-style format, welcoming performers of all ages for the first time.
The event, run by The Business Times and The Straits Times, will move from its traditional seated concert to an open, flexible experience at UOB Plaza. Instead of a two-hour show, ChildAid 2026 Festival: Open Stage will span several hours, letting audiences explore performances at their own pace. Entry will be free.
Performers of all ages invited
Auditions are now open for musicians, bands, street performers, dancers, magicians, acrobats, and other acts. Adults may now join if their performance includes at least one key participant aged 19 or younger. The update is meant to build collaboration and mentorship between generations.
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Applicants must submit a video of their act, personal details, and a brief statement explaining their interest in performing for charity. Submissions close on September 13 and can be completed at str.sg/CA2026audition.
Previous participants include Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who performed in 2012 while serving as acting minister for culture, community, and youth. Others, such as Nathan Hartono, Amni Musfirah, and Nathania Ong, have since turned professional.
Amni Musfirah, now 31, will return as the event’s creative director.
Same mission, new approach
The festival will continue its original goal of raising funds for children and youth in need. Since 2005, ChildAid has raised over S$32 million for two charities—the Business Times Budding Artists Fund and the Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund. These programs have helped more than 230,000 young people.
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Wong Wei Kong, editor-in-chief of the English, Malay, and Tamil Media Group at SPH Media, said the event’s evolution reflects its core values. “ChildAid is important to SPH Media because it brings together two things we care deeply about: supporting those in need and giving young people opportunities to realise their potential,” he said.
BT editor Chen Huifen explained that the free entry is designed to build a more inclusive atmosphere. “With this new free-to-attend festival format, we hope to bring even more people together to celebrate performers across generations and a shared desire to do good,” she said.
Those interested in performing can find details at str.sg/CA2026audition.