Singing, dancing, banter: The ones who keep the show going

The getai hosts Ke Le and Jacky Chin interacted on stage during a Hungry Ghost Festival getai show at Toa Payoh Industrial Park on August 20. The spectators, who arrived early, had already set up their seats with red plastic chairs, tissue packets, water bottles, and cardboard scraps – as if claiming ownership of the spot. The front, or VIP, seats were similarly marked with bundles of joss paper for the spirits to enjoy.

Molly Ng, a 73-year-old resident from Hougang, was already seated with her husband at 5 pm, eagerly anticipating the show. They had attended a getai show the night before in Ubi and planned to attend every one around the island during the month. "I watched getai as a teenager. It brings back fond memories. And it's free entertainment," Ng said, waving to another "getai regular."

The veteran getai singer-host Hao Hao quietly reviewed his lines and the show's schedule beside the stage. Passers-by paused to catch a glimpse or snap a photo of the calm atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle. Veteran performers continued to receive gifts ranging from plushies to household items from local fans. Hao Hao offered desserts to the reporter, who took one bowl of sweet beancurd skin and barley soup.

He donned a pink jacket with white petals and greeted the crowd in a mix of Hokkien and Mandarin, addressing the three generations present – young, middle-aged, and old.

As the Hungry Ghost Festival event organizer handed them red packets, the audience continued to support the performers. Despite the drizzle, the audience remained steadfast in their seats, with Hao Hao joking that the rain was a "show of blessings." The getai shows, once a primary source of income, now exist alongside various other occasions, such as Chinese festivals and grassroots events.

However, the number of performances has significantly decreased, with Hao Hao conducting only over 20 shows during the festival month, a decline from the 30 gigs he used to do in the past. Despite the challenges, the performers remain dedicated to keeping the unique culture alive.