Front Row

The internationally acclaimed dark comedy The Bee is set to be performed for the first time in Malaysia, adapted into Mandarin. This celebrated work by Japanese playwright Hideki Noda and Irish playwright Colin Teevan offers a disturbing yet humorous dive into a world where the ordinary turns sinister, and where everyday life is overrun by violence and madness. Directed by Loh Kok Man, The Bee brings together a talented, all-star Malaysian cast and award-winning production team. Presented by Pentas Project and W Productions, we speak to the show’s producer, William Yap, to find out what’s in store. Image credit: Pentas Project & W Productions (via CloudJoi)

Artist Angelo Chia’s new exhibition, Value. Elements. Prospective. Impromptu, offers a fresh look at the foods we consume, especially the durian, often considered the 'King of Fruits.' Through abstract yet lifelike watercolour paintings, Angelo explores the theme 'we are what we eat,' presenting fruit as a mirror to our identities and shared cultural heritage. Angelo joins us to discuss his creative process, and his personal connection to these works, being exhibited at AweGallery. Image credit: Angelo Chia

Ilham Gallery is set to host artist Noor Abed, who will bring her evocative film trilogy to the gallery this 10th - 21st November, with a special screening and conversation with writer Jo Kukathas on the 9th of November. Abed is a Palestinian artist who works at the intersection of performance and film, and her works, including Penelope, our songs were ready for all wars to come, and A Night We Held Between, delve into Palestinian folklore, blending visuals and soundscapes to reflect themes of resistance, community, and the deep ties to land. We speak to Noor to find out more about her work. Image credit: Noor Abed

The Al McKay Allstars, led by Grammy-winning guitarist and Earth, Wind & Fire legend Al McKay, are set to perform in Kuala Lumpur for a one-night only performance. Known for their high-energy performances, the Allstars will bring timeless hits like "September," "Boogie Wonderland," and "Let’s Groove" to life, celebrating Earth, Wind & Fire’s enduring legacy. We speak to Tim Owens, the lead vocalist of the band, to hear more. Image credit: Al McKay Allstars

Award-winning Malaysian musical The Working Dead, returns to the stage with its unique blend of humour, heart, and social commentary. Set against the backdrop of a corporate world where overwork becomes literal life and death, the story follows Edwin, a salaryman transformed into a zombie by his boss to keep up with the demands of his job. Featuring catchy songs, lively choreography, and a talented cast of local performers, this production also champions a charitable cause, collaborating with the Dignity Foundation to support marginalised youth, some of whom will make their stage debut. Presented by KULT Productions, we find out what's in store from writer and producer Terence Toh, and actor, singer and performer Ida Mariana. Image credit: KULT Productions

The KLPAC Symphonic Band are inviting us to experience nature’s beauty through music in their upcoming concert, “A Dash of Nature: Earth, Sky, and the Life Within.” Under Cheryl Mah's direction, the performance explores Earth’s wonders, featuring compositions by international talents and the world premieres of works by Malaysian composers. From the vibrancy of the forest at night to underwater journeys and mythical mountainscapes, we find out what's in store from Chew Sze Gee, a flautist and the Vice-President of the KLPAC Symphonic Band, and Lawrence Chiu, a composer whose ‘I Wish to Bring You IV’ will make its premiere at this upcoming production. Image credit: KL Symphonic Band

Rahmat Bahgia 2024 is an immersive art and community event that celebrates the vibrant connection between art, community, and shared memories, with a nostalgic focus on reliving childhood and iconic cultural objects familiar to Malaysians. The event will showcase life-sized replicas of beloved items, art performances, music shows, and creative workshops, and the highlight will be the unveiling of Lorong Seni, Jalan Negara Kita, a permanent creative space designed to foster artistic collaboration and cultural pride. We find out more from Nazura Rahime, the Gallery Owner of A.P. Art Gallery, Anderson Ee, the Curator of the show, and Ahmad Hakym, the co-founder of KLsketchnation. Image credit: jalannegarakita (Instagram) (background)

Kalam — Confluence of Writers & Ideas is a community-driven literary gathering in Kuala Lumpur, part of the Kreatif KL Festival by Think City, celebrating creativity, diversity, and community. Kalam will bring together over 40 speakers from nine countries, including prominent writers and intellectuals like Malaysian cartoonist Lat, Indonesian poet Goenawan Mohamad, and Philippine author Marga Ortigas. The event will feature 27 programs across venues like Muzium Telekom and Central Market, exploring the evolving literary landscapes of Kuala Lumpur and the region. We speak to Pauline Fan, the curator of the programme, to find out more. Image credit: Kalam Kuala Lumpur (Instagram)

The Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) are set to present their inaugural benefit concert, Resonance for a Reason, a special event will blend music, philanthropy, and nation-building. The concert aims to raise awareness and support for the MPO's talent development program, and will feature renowned performers like Dato' M Nasir, Dato' Sheila Majid, and Misha Omar, alongside the Malaysian Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. We discuss the upcoming concert, and how the MPO wants to continue to nurture young talents and promote music appreciation, with the show's conductor Ahmad Muriz Che Rose, who is also the Head of Music Talent Development at the MPO. Image credit: MPO

Laluan Amaryllis . Still is a contemporary dance theatre production by Kwang Tung Dance Company that explores the timeless themes of migration and existence. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the performance reflects on survival strategies of individuals and communities who move from their homeland to a new environment, exploring the emotional and physical realities of migration. The show brings together talented choreographers, designers, and musicians, to craft an immersive experience that challenges audiences to rethink the meaning of movement and existence. We find out all about it from Wong Pui May, a member of the Kwang Tung Dance Company. Image credit: Kwang Tung Dance Company (via Onetix)

In a world where art is often seen as a luxury, seasoned artist Jane Tan stands out for her selfless dedication to using her craft for the greater good. At 77, Jane’s third and final solo exhibition, Beauty In My Eyes, showcases 21 stunning oil on canvas landscape paintings. Through this retrospective, she not only invites art lovers to enjoy her works but also provides an opportunity to support a noble cause—donating a portion of the proceeds to the Hua Ming Autism Society. We speak to Jane now to discuss her work, and to discuss how it reflects her personal motto, "When kindness meets kindness, the world becomes beautiful." Image credit: Awegallery (Instagram)

Hands Percussion are back with Kaleidoscope VII: Gendang Sedunia – the Hands International Drumming Festival, an innovative performance that fuses traditional rhythms with modern interpretations. Uniting percussionists and artists from Malaysia, China, and Indonesia, this year's festival promises a spectacular celebration of global rhythms, and we find out more from Bernard Goh, the Founder and Artistic Director of Hands Percussion. Image credit: Hands Percussion (via CloudJoi)

Canadian Rajah is a new play that explores a forgotten chapter of Sarawak's history. Presented by Masakini Theatre Company, the production is directed by Sabera Shaik, and brings to life the poignant and complex relationship between Esca Brooke Daykin, the first-born son of the second Rajah of Sarawak, and the formidable Ranee Margaret. We speak to cast members Sarah Shahrum, Malik Taufiq, and Israr Khalid to explore what the play written by Dave Carley is all about, while also exploring their experiences working on this historical drama. Image credit: Masakini Theatre Company via CloudJoi

Bold: Hijjas Kasturi at 88 is a new exhibition of abstract artworks by renowned architect Hijjas Kasturi. Launched in celebration of his 88th birthday, this exhibition highlights the evolution of his artistic journey since his first solo exhibition Renewal in 2022. We catch up with Bilqis Hijjas, the Director of Rimbun Dahan and Hijjas's daughter, to discuss the inspirations behind his bold, expressive creations, his artistic evolution, and how his lifetime of experiences, from architecture to world travel, has shaped his approach to art today. Image credit: Rimbun Dahan

PAN Productions is set to debut a new original musical, Rhymba, inspired by Malaysia’s incredible biodiversity. The show features characters like the Malayan Tiger and Sunda Slow Loris, and the musical addresses themes of generational conflict and succession, while highlighting local flora and fauna. We find out what's in store from the show’s co-producers Peter Ong and Alizakri Alias, who are also the co-founders of Pan Productions.

Spectrum is described as a performance that explores the deep connection between music and human emotion, featuring works by Bach, Mozart, Barber and Shostakovich. Presented by Kamerata KL, the show is a presentation of the group's commitment to blending classical and contemporary music, resonating with the human experience. We find out more from Ergys Koni, the Artistic Director of KamerataKL and Violist, Wong Kai Jeff.

The Selangor Symphony Orchestra are set to present a concert featuring the classic film scores of John Williams. Be transported to galaxies far away, and legendary worlds by a stunning program featuring movie music from Star Wars, Superman, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, Jaws, Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park, Harry Potter, and many more. We find out more about the concert from Selangor Symphony Orchestra’s Music Director and conductor, Eugene Pook and Karen-Michaela Tan, the group’s Outreach and Promotions Volunteer Consultant.

The upcoming choral production Radiant Dawn promises a transcendent musical experience, showcasing sacred works that span five centuries, from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Set to be performed by the KL Madrigal Singers and Players, we find out what's in store from Scott Woo, a tenor and the Director of the group, and together we're going to explore how these sacred traditions, through composers like Tallis, Byrd, Bach, and Poulenc, come alive to illuminate the journey of faith, culture, and artistry.

Dama Asia are celebrating their 30th anniversary this year, with a spectacular showcase of song and dance in Magical 30 - A Malaysian Musical Journey. This vibrant production pays tribute to the theatre supporters and diverse audiences who have shared this journey, featuring a multi-racial Malaysian cast performing international hits in multiple languages, including English, Malay, Chinese, Tamil, and more. With 30 soul-stirring songs, 30 insightful perspectives from theatre practitioners, and 30 witty quips about show business, Magical 30 promises an unforgettable evening of joy, laughter, and cultural celebration. We speak to Artistic Director and Director Pun Kai Loon, and cast members Freida Ooi and Zamil Idris to find out what's planned at this anniversary bash.

Amberjade Arts are presenting a new work, Son of the Forest, which was inspired by Malay Archipelago folk tales. Written and directed by Tarrant Kwok, this thought-provoking production explores the tension between sacrifice, conquest, and the shared stories that define us. The play which is being presented as part of Theatre Takeover: Cosmic '24, also delves into traditional male and female roles in narratives, unravelling old tropes, while reflecting on the cyclical tragedies of modern life. We find out what’s in store from Tarrant, who is also the show’s technical designer. Image Credit: Amberjade Arts via CloudTheatre