"I busk because I like putting smiles on people's faces."
– Edwin Ong, 25
EDWIN ONG
The Jester
Upbeat tunes of Hey Mickey and Jai Ho blares down the busy street of Orchard as a circus actor performs quirky and outlandish acts for an audience that crowds around him. He starts off his performance with a softball juggling act, then goes on to invite a volunteer from the audience to participate some simple plate spinning action, all while constantly hyping up the crowd.
He continues to pick up a lit up diabolo and flings it into the air, skilfully catching it as it comes falling down. He finishes his set by juggling a set of knives, earning enthusiastic laughter and cheer from the audience.
Meet Edwin Ong, a street circus actor.
Edwin found his love for circus acts when he was 14, and has engaged in stage performances ever since. It was only through a chance encounter with a busker during one of his acts in 2014 where he was egged into taking his skills to the streets.
“It’s a good way to improve my skills, as well as try out new tricks to see if the people like them. The thing about stage performances is that no matter how good or bad your are, people will stay on to watch you. As for street performances, if the crowd doesn't like it, they walk away,” the 25-year-old said.
The bubbly performer has come a long way in adapting to the atmosphere of street performances. It is almost hard to believe the that Edwin received weak response and multiple audience criticism when he first started a year back.
Despite this being a freelance hobby, Edwin has a lot to appreciate from street busking.
He enjoys watching audience laughing at his silly antics and comedic stunts, and always strives to put smiles on people’s faces with his zealousness and contagious energy.
“For me, every set is a memorable experience. I’m contented as long as the audience are willing to take time to watch me, even for just one trick. I get a sense of accomplishment, and their cheers spurs me to keep going on.”
Edwin puts up live juggling shows outside Wisma Atria Shopping Mall on weekends, from 5pm - 7pm.
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