With smooth voices and expressive music, Vocal Point began their first solo international tour, in Thailand, last week. Beginning right after BYU Spectacular in China ended, Vocal Point traveled to Bangkok, where they performed at a special sold-out charity gala hosted by M.R. (Lady) Benchapa Krairiksh, a long-time supporter of the BYU performing groups and their tours to Thailand.M.R. (Lady) Benchapa Krairiksh, the Chairwoman of the Pratthanadee Foundation, together with Mr. Enrique Cuan, the Founder of the Foundation opened the event, which was held at the Athenee Hotel. The group also performed at two other sold-out shows at the International School Thailand.
Vocal Point shared more than just their voices—they gave their time as they served alongside the Good Shepherd Sisters of Bangkok in a refugee center and orphanage school. Vocal Point was able to bring in the monthly food donation from the local stakes of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Vocal Point also sang and played with the children at the center. Sister Louise, who founded the center 53 years ago and is known as the Mother Teresa of Thailand, said the children “haven’t smiled like this in a long time.”
Vocal Point also performed for children and adults with disabilities at Father Ray Foundation in the Redemptorist Center in Chonburi province. The children first performed for Vocal Point, and then Vocal Point performed for the children. This performance was supported by Father Phattaharaphongsri Worakul, President of the Father Ray Foundation, along with Khun Sunantha Somboontham, President of the St. Joseph Foundation, and in cooperation with the Rotary Club of Bangkok.
Along with performing and giving service, the BYU group visited some of the sites of Bangkok, including the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, Wat Pho, the Grand Palace, and a floating market. The group also went to the beach in Pattaya and took a cruise down the Chao Phraya River.
