A contest at the National Culture Hall last Friday chose 10 announcers to compere the 25th SEA Games opening and closing ceremonies.
The winners were selected by the Lao SEA Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies Committee from 90 initial applicants who entered the contest in September.
The main objective was to select the best announcers, who are required to speak excellent English and present the best of the nation's cultural and traditional characteristics in the form of dress, charm and behaviour during the opening and closing ceremonies.
The winners were each awarded 5 million kip and certificates of honour by the Ministry of Information and Culture.
In the final round, a group of 20 competitors showcased their master of ceremony skills in both Lao and English, as well-known Lao bands and singers entertained the audience.
Most of the winners have experience in television or radio.
The group will be split into five pairs and will have the very important role of making public announcements, including the introduction of programmes, during SEA Games events including the opening and closing ceremonies.
The first pair will compere the opening ceremony on December 9 and the second will take to the stage during the closing ceremony on December 18.
The other three pairs will act as substitutes and will be given other jobs to perform.
The group will undertake further training organised by the committee to ensure their stage presence and delivery meets the standard expected.
The 10 winners were Ms Silimata Douangphoumy, Ms Thipkesone Sithirajvongsa, Ms Sengsuliya Phonkaseumsouk, Ms Phenmaly Phonsena, Ms Siriphon Southammavong, Mr Phoutthason Duangphoumy, Mr Paliya Nuanthasing, Mr Anan Singsaveng, Mr Thatsaphone Leudthavone and Mr Bounpaseuth Oupathana.
By Phoonsab Thevongsa
Vientianetimes
