Tan Yng Jich | 27.11.2000

A1 was in town just last week, well, not in the physical sense, but rather, through the use of technology. The event was held at Comcentre in Orchard, in conjunction with Straits Times' school holidary specials. The moment I stepped into the room where the video conference was to be held, I was hit by a wave of excitement.

30 lucky teenagers were picked from thousands to participate in this video conference. We were all seated nicely in front of this screen and everyone was just chattering to the next person, excited that they were going to get a chance to interview A1.

The boys were all the way in far London, yet it did not stop them from being excited at this event as well. They were very friendly and perky, though it was pretty early to be up and about for them. Ben and Mark were greeted with a surprise birthday present by the 30 strong “journalists”, who stood up and sang a gusty birthday song for them. Then the question and answer started.

Though young, these teenagers sure had the flair for journalism, asking questions that required the boys to think and react. Of course A1 did not just shrug off the questions or attempt to answer feebly. Instead, they gave encouragement and praise when it was due, whenever an interesting question was asked.

Questions that were asked included, “How does it feel to be famous”, which was their favourite single from the second album, why did they release “A List” here in Singapore first before the rest of the world and even plans on doing more covers. The boys were very relaxed and forthcoming in their answers, which were accompanied by excited giggles and mentions of “We love you A1” by the audience.

The whole event was relaxing, not like any press conference by the media. Everyone enjoyed themselves, laughter all round, it was indeed a much refreshing change from the seriousness of a normal press conference. The 30 teenagers were pretty much motivated by the whole experience and as they left home, clutching their A1 posters and CDs, I'm sure they will not forget this for a very long time!