logo
Little Monsters flock to Maxwell Food Centre table that Lady Gaga dined at, Entertainment News

Little Monsters flock to Maxwell Food Centre table that Lady Gaga dined at, Entertainment News

AsiaOne22-05-2025

Where Mother Monster goes, her Little Monsters follow.
After Lady Gaga was spotted dining at Maxwell Food Centre on Tuesday (May 20), fans have flocked to the exact table she sat at, some recreating the same meal.
The pop star, who has four shows lined up in Singapore, sat at table 171 in front of Fortune Popiah stall.
In photos shared online, the 39-year-old is seen enjoying Tsingtao beer, Milo dinosaur and local delicacies with her fiance Michael Polansky and friends.
According to Xiaohongshu users, the seat that Lady Gaga sat on can be easily identified by the blue sticker underneath it.
Now, the ubiquitous orange stool seat has become a hotspot and fans are recreating the meal she had.
In a Xiaohongshu post, one user holds up a cup of Tsingtao beer and arranges the dishes on the table to resemble Gaga's meal.
"By proximity, I'm sitting with Mother Monster," one fan captioned a picture of him dining at the same table.
"I felt the same breeze that touched her. So, does this count as a virtual embrace?" another fan wrote in his post.
In a separate video, two Little Monsters are seen dancing to the song Judas near table 171.
"The stall owners are playing Lady Gaga's songs and Little Monsters are everywhere. I'm happy," the user wrote.
Some netizens joked that fans would have to queue to take a picture at the table from now on.
After playing three shows on May 18, 19 and 21, Lady Gaga will conclude her performances in Singapore with one last show on Saturday (May 24).
[[nid:718249]]
jengjee.hoon@asiaone.com

Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

‘Singapore-exclusive' concerts are the way forward, while we still have the upper hand
‘Singapore-exclusive' concerts are the way forward, while we still have the upper hand

Straits Times

timean hour ago

  • Straits Times

‘Singapore-exclusive' concerts are the way forward, while we still have the upper hand

The strategy of Singapore-exclusive shows by international superstars could fuel the country's aspirations of being a global entertainment epicentre. PHOTO: HOONG QI HAO/ @QHVENTURES News analysis 'Singapore-exclusive' concerts are the way forward, while we still have the upper hand SINGAPORE - In the snaking lines for Lady Gaga merchandise in the Singapore Sports Hub's foyer two weeks ago, one could hear a smattering of Tagalog and Vietnamese, Thai and Hindi, and mainland Chinese Mandarin among the chatter. It was a smorgasbord sampling of fans from Asia and beyond, who had descended on Singapore for Lady Gaga's only shows in the region at the National Stadium from May 18 to 24. If they wanted to see Gaga in the flesh in this part of the world – on a brand-new tour that had been performed in only three other cities – they had to come to Singapore. As with Taylor Swift's runaway success of sold-out shows in March 2024, the Republic had once again managed to work out a deal making sure that the artiste played only here. Besides the economic boost, this strategy of Singapore-exclusive shows by international superstars could fuel the country's aspirations of being a global entertainment epicentre – and is one that should be pursued for as long as possible. Slower uptake, but optimistic signs from Gaga concerts In March 2024, pop star Swift held six sold-out concerts at the National Stadium – a series of shows that were later revealed to have been secured by Kallang Alive Sport Management (KASM), which runs the Sports Hub, and a team led by then Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong. Swift set a high bar, with six shows that sold over 300,000 tickets. Paired with British band Coldplay's six shows in January 2024, private-sector estimates said the two shows injected up to $450 million into the Singapore economy, bringing in high international visitor arrivals, high hotel occupancy rates and tourism revenue. Lady Gaga's shows were expected to draw over 200,000 local and international fans, according to KASM. But it appeared that tickets took longer to sell. Up until the week of the concert, checks by The Straits Times showed there were still unsold tickets. When asked, concert promoter Live Nation did not confirm if all four shows were sold out, nor how many tickets were sold. Any tangible impact on the economy at large will be seen only when the numbers are crunched in the coming months, but early signs are optimistic. Many hotels and food and beverage and nightlife establishments in town, and the Central Business District area especially, saw brisk business. Marriott International, which has almost 20 properties in Singapore ranging from hotels for budget-conscious travellers to luxury hotels, saw an increase in occupancy and revenue during Gaga concert week. 'The third day of the concert, May 21, saw the highest uplift in revenue per available room, of more than 70 per cent over the same time last year,' said a spokesperson. Other hotels like Swissotel The Stamford told ST that it saw a 'double-digit percentage increase in revenue driven by both higher occupancy and average rate across the complex'. There was high demand from countries such as China, Thailand and Hong Kong, said a spokesperson, adding that 'much of this business materialised at the last minute, with bookings made within the same month'. For some, like nightlife venue Restroom, these were the first signs of life for business in a slow 2025 so far. The bar, which hosted Lady Gaga-themed after-parties and hired local drag queens to perform, had snaking queues every night, and saw revenue double during the week of the concerts. Co-founder Keith Tan hired 50 per cent more staff to cope with the sheer volume of visitors who came from Taiwan, Vietnam, Europe and the US. 'It was not just concertgoers who came for drinks after the concerts ended at around 10.30pm... these are also tourists who typically stay (in Singapore for) a few days before or after the day of the concert they have tickets for,' said Mr Tan. However, others like cocktail bar Night Hawk said the rise in business during the week of the Gaga concerts was far less pronounced than when Coldplay and Taylor Swift were in town in 2024. Paradoxically, tourism experts say the climate of global economic uncertainty could encourage spending on such one-off events. Associate Professor Kuan-Huei Lee , director of programmes, business, communication and design at the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), said: 'During periods of crisis and economic uncertainty, individuals may increase their spending on emotional or aspirational goods and experiences that they perceive as 'once-in-a-lifetime' events, such as a Lady Gaga concert.' Proven formula, but can it be repeated? Lady Gaga's recent run of shows is the second time in two years that a major international act has chosen Singapore as its only regional stop. However, pulling off such 'once-in-a-lifetime' events on a regular basis could be a challenge. Not only is it contingent on mega artistes' touring schedules and attracting them to Singapore, but other countries in the region could also emulate the Republic's strategy. However, observers agree that Singapore is well placed to keep the momentum going. Several key factors make it a preferred choice in the region, noted tourism expert Benjamin Cassim, senior lecturer for hospitality and tourism management at Temasek Polytechnic. This includes the availability of hospitality and tourism infrastructure for travelling artists, their teams and visitors attending the concerts, as well as venues with a proven track record that are equipped to deliver in terms of size and technical support. Accessibility is another element, including the ease of getting to Singapore, and travelling within it safely, with an efficient public transport system that is close to venues. Mr Cassim noted that the Republic has already established itself as a premier entertainment and sports events destination, not just within the Asia-Pacific region, but also globally. 'A major catalyst for this transformation is probably the Formula One Singapore Grand Prix event, that Singapore started hosting in 2008,' he said. The F1 Singapore GP's consistently stacked and high-quality off-track entertainment line-ups – with concerts by A-listers from Queen and Shakira, to Ariana Grande and Green Day, built around the marquee race event – have been a template that has since been imitated by other F1 races around the world. 'The more concert and entertainment events Singapore hosts, the more experience the relevant stakeholders get at honing their craft,' said Mr Cassim. 'This increases our levels of expertise to successfully deliver top-notch events.' For concert promoters as well, Singapore is a reliable choice, though it is the most expensive in the region. It costs about 25 per cent to 30 per cent more to stage a concert here, compared with other countries in the region such as Seoul, Bangkok and Jakarta, noted Mr Zaran Vachha, co-founder of independent touring company Collective Minds. 'Bringing someone like Lady Gaga here costs millions of dollars, and at that level, they don't want things to go wrong,' said Mr Vachha. 'And in the region, despite it being the most expensive, Singapore is the least risky place to do that – in terms of everything from securing venues, licensing, approvals and visas (for artists and crew), to (ensuring) ticket demand. 'It's a safety net for both promoters and artists.' Securing the next big fish While Singapore has a first-mover advantage in this space, and the ability to make it happen again, it should pursue this 'Singapore-exclusive' strategy for as long as it can before others catch up. 'Replicating Singapore's advantages as a tourist destination is challenging,' said SIT's Prof Lee, noting that organising such events involves well-oiled coordination between the public and private sectors such as the Government, venue operators, lodging and logistics. He added: 'As neighbouring countries continue to lag behind in competing with Singapore up to now, it is crucial for Singapore to secure exclusive agreements. 'These should align with fan travel patterns, capitalise on logistical strengths, integrate additional activities for tourists to enjoy outside the concert, and closely observe emerging competitors in the region to adapt and adjust.' In 2024, Singapore hit a record $29.8 billion in tourism receipts, driven largely by visitors from markets such as China, Indonesia and Australia, said the Singapore Tourism Board (STB). Between January and September 2024, tourism receipts showed that spending grew across all categories, led by the sightseeing, entertainment and gaming category, which increased by 25 per cent to $4.6 billion. STB's outlook for 2025 is even more bullish, with expectations of receiving 17 million to 18.5 million international visitors, bringing in $29 billion to $30.5 billion in tourism receipts, surpassing 2024's numbers. After 2024's sold-out shows by Taylor Swift and 2025's run of shows by Lady Gaga, perhaps Singapore should angle for its next big fish in 2026. With such marquee concert events in the year attracting top tourism eyeballs and dollars, and with Singapore shifting priorities to quality tourism instead of quantity in terms of visitor numbers, the Republic must strike while the iron is hot – and continue on its rodeo run to lasso the highest stratosphere of superstars in the world. There is a very limited list of such stars, and one Beyonce Knowles Carter – currently on her reportedly 94 per cent sold-out run of Cowboy Carter shows around the US and Europe for 2025 – happens to be on it. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.

‘I have another 8 or 9 years to live': HK star Law Kar Ying battles cancer for 4th time
‘I have another 8 or 9 years to live': HK star Law Kar Ying battles cancer for 4th time

Straits Times

timea day ago

  • Straits Times

‘I have another 8 or 9 years to live': HK star Law Kar Ying battles cancer for 4th time

Law Kar Ying revealed in a recent interview with Chinese media that he has been diagnosed with cancer for the fourth time. PHOTO: XIAOHONGSHU 'I have another 8 or 9 years to live': HK star Law Kar Ying battles cancer for 4th time HONG KONG – Veteran Hong Kong opera star and actor Law Kar Ying has been leading an active lifestyle in recent years. Despite his seemingly robust appearance, the 78-year-old revealed in a recent interview with Chinese media that he has been diagnosed with cancer for the fourth time. He is currently on tour in China with Hong Kong actress Athena Chu for a Cantonese stage play. Although Law said doctors estimate that he may have around eight years to live, the From Beijing With Love (1994) star added he is not fearful and has chosen to forgo chemotherapy and radiotherapy. 'I have another eight or nine years to live. Ninety years old is already a long life. What's the point of living longer? I'm not afraid at all,' he said. 'I won't undergo chemotherapy or radiotherapy. I want to be comfortable as I bid my friends goodbye.' When asked how he is dealing with the latest diagnosis, Law responded: 'You come (into this world) empty-handed and you'll leave empty-handed. I have no worries. That's life.' His positive attitude and outlook have impressed netizens, with many praising him for appreciating and making the most out of the present moment. Law, a member of the Hong Kong Celebrity Football Team, is married to Hong Kong actress Liza Wang, 77. He was first diagnosed with stage three liver cancer in 2004 and had to undergo surgery to remove part of his liver to save his life. With the support of Wang, he remained optimistic and ultimately overcame the disease. The couple later wed in the United States in 2009. In 2014, a routine medical check-up revealed a 2cm tumour in Law's liver, and he went for surgery to remove the tumour. In 2019, doctors found cancerous cells after a prostate biopsy. He underwent a prostatectomy, a procedure to remove part or all of the prostate gland, and was in remission after that. THE STAR/ASIA NEWS NETWORK Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

Uncovering the secrets behind Chagee's best-selling jasmine green milk tea , Lifestyle News
Uncovering the secrets behind Chagee's best-selling jasmine green milk tea , Lifestyle News

AsiaOne

time2 days ago

  • AsiaOne

Uncovering the secrets behind Chagee's best-selling jasmine green milk tea , Lifestyle News

As Shakespeare once said, "A rose by any other name would smell as sweet." That's the case for Chagee, who is renaming their famed jasmine green milk tea to Bo•Ya Jasmine Green Milk Tea. And while the name is new, the tea isn't, so there's no need to worry about the fan-favourite undergoing a recipe change. The tea still uses a blend of Yunnan high mountain green tea and Fujian Da Bai Hao green tea, which are known for their deep and clear taste. If you've ever wondered why there's barely any astringence why you sip on Chagee tea, it's because only young leaves from new shoots of a tea plant are used, so you only get sweetness and zero bitterness in each sip. As for that unmistakable jasmine fragrance - none of that is artificial. Instead, Chagee scents their tea leaves naturally, by layering jasmine flowers onto tea leaves. To really ensure the leaves are perfumed fully, Chagee even controls when the flowers are plucked - in season and only when the sun is out. The blossoms are then placed on tea leaves in the middle of the night, when they're in full bloom, to maximise absorption of the jasmine oils. Old flowers are thrown out daily and the process is repeated several more times. What's left are tea leaves that don't just smell heavily of jasmine but also taste of that floral fragrance. Chagee renames top-selling tea to Bo•Ya Jasmine Green Milk Tea It's surprising then that Chagee would want to rename their top seller. But there's good reason why the crowd favourite is now going by Bo•Ya Jasmine Green Milk Tea. It's named after Bo Ya, a zither player from ancient China. Legend has it that his music was often misunderstood, until he developed a friendship with a woodcutter named Zhong Ziqi. Zhong Ziqi was the only one who could interpret Bo Ya's music as the latter had intended, which helped to forge a strong bond between the two men. That connection is what inspired Chagee on the name change. Bo•Ya Jasmine Green Milk Tea isn't just a mid-afternoon tea break - it represents shared connections between friends, family and loved ones. Order Chagee's Bo•Ya Jasmine Green Milk Tea now At this point, we're willing to bet you're ready to order a cup. Here's our tip to beat the snaking queues at every Chagee outlet: Download and order through the Chagee app. Choose your preferred pick-up location, place your customised order then just saunter in to get your drink once it's ready. Chagee tea breaks are best shared with friends, so share the love by getting them to download the Chagee app too. If they use your referral code, you'll be in the running to win prizes. Aim for the top 10, as third to tenth place winners get a month's worth of free Chagee, second place wins a Dior Cardholder and first place will bring home a Van Cleef & Arpels Necklace worth $2,400. You'll want to get started ASAP as the referral programme is only running from now till June 9, 2025. This article is brought to you by Chagee.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store