Sparkling debut: A snapshot from the winning display at the sixth Da Nang International Fireworks Competition. The victorious Melrose Pyrotechnics team used their debut performance to celebrate the beauty of the city's Han River. — VNS Photo Le Lam

DA NANG (VNS)— A hish-octane blend of incredible fireworks and love ballads heralding the Han River's beauty proved a winning combination for debutant team Melrose Pyrotechnics at the sixth Da Nang International Fireworks Competition, as the US-based outfit sealed top-spot.

The team began Tuesday night's show with slow music, before upping the tempo with Whitney Houston's I Will Always Love You as their pyrotechnics lit up skies over the Han River.

"We shared a great moment tonight. All the teams showed strong performances at the competition and we were lucky to be the winners," said Melrose's Matt Cartolano.

"I love all of you, the city and the country. If we are invited, we want to return here for more festive fun."

The show depicted the beauty of women and the Han River by expertly harmonising stunning fireworks and enchanting music.

Tamaya Kitahara of Japan tied with Italy's two-time champions Parente in the race for second place.

The Japanese team, which ranked third at the 2010 competition, created a garden in the sky complete with a showpiece cherry blossom.

Meanwhile, Parente impressed with an emotional show illustrating the flow of the Han River with a breadth of musical genres ranging from new age, electronic and waltz to classical.

The host team Da Nang-Viet Nam and Russian outfit Centre Khan shared third position.

The two-night competition was witnessed by crowds of spectators from 28,000-seat stage along the Han River.

Having been a huge annual festival attraction since 2008, the competition will be held biennially from 2015. — VNS

 

The performance of Tamaya Kitahara of Japan