The 1990s in Kuala Lumpur were marked by rapid urbanisation, economic growth, and a wave of national pride. Beneath this optimism, however, a dynamic counterculture was brewing—a movement that embraced parody, play, and artistic experimentation to challenge mainstream narratives and authority. Boom Boom Bang: Play and Parody in 1990s KL, now on display at ILHAM Gallery, captures this transformative period through art, performance, and archival materials. We speak to co-curators Rahel Joseph and Simon Soon about the exhibition’s themes, highlights, and the enduring impact of KL’s 1990s art scene.

Image credit: Ilham Gallery

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The holidays are almost here, a time for joy, reflection, and giving back. This year, Holly Jolly Holidays, presented by The Philharmonic Society of Selangor or “The Phil”, brings all three together in a spectacular concert that also supports the work of The National Autism Society of Malaysia. We speak to Brenda James, the Chairperson of  The Philharmonic Society of Selangor, and Cason Ong, the Secretary of the National Autism Society of Malaysia (NASOM), to find out all about this festive concert that not only celebrates the season with beautiful choral performances, but also supports a meaningful cause close to many hearts.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

When Double Punctum first premiered a decade ago, it marked a groundbreaking moment in the Malaysian performing arts scene by blending photography, theatre, and dance. Now, under the guidance of director Loh Kok Man from Pentas Project, the production returns with a restructured version of its 'White Paper' segment, bringing new life to the original vision. We speak to dancers and performers Ming Low and JS Wong, to discuss the creative process behind this new iteration, how their performances have evolved over the years, and what audiences can expect from this powerful, multidisciplinary performance.

Image credit: Pentas Project

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Christmas with Mr. Bach - An Interactive Family Concert promises to blend the magic of the holiday season, with an educational journey through the life and music of Johann Sebastian Bach and his talented family. We catch up with Professor Dr. David Chin, the Founder and Artistic Director of Bachfest Malaysia, to discuss the inspiration behind this festive concert, the enchanting elements that make this performance a must-see for audiences of all ages, and also the release of a new children’s book A Day in the Life of J.S. Bach. David who will be playing Mr Bach in the performance is also the Director of the Bach Collegium and Music Professor at Augustana University in Sioux Falls in South Dakota, and a Senior Fellow of the Bach Archive in Leipzig, Germany.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What does it take to keep the arts alive? For the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC), it means constant innovation, collaboration, and a touch of magic. Their latest effort, Laugh, Love, Give with Harith & Friends, is a fundraising variety show aimed at supporting the centre’s mission as it heads into its 20th anniversary. We’re joined by Artistic Director and Co-Founder Joe Hasham and Group General Manager Ian Chow to explore the challenges of sustaining the arts, the importance of this event, and their vision for the future of performing arts in Malaysia.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mortal Man: Two Monologues by renowned playwright Leow Puay Tin, is described as a unique exploration of the lives and formative influences of two Malaysian artists, and brings to life Puay Tin's signature "tikam-tikam" storytelling method - a blend of performance and chance that creates a deeply personal yet universally resonant narrative. Presented by Five Arts Centre, we speak to the production's producer, Mark Teh, and one of its lead performers, Faiq Syazwan Kuhiri, to explore the creative processes behind the monologues, and its poignant insights into Malaysia's cultural and artistic landscapes.

Image credit: Five Arts Centre

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ring in the holiday season with December's Gifts, a year-end concert presented by Musicians Linkage, happening for one night only. This musical celebration promises an enchanting evening featuring a delightful blend of classical and contemporary pop music. With performances by Nixon Tan, Insyirah Azlan, and rising star Sophia Li ZhuChen in her debut solo, the concert is a celebration of musical joy, excitement, and creativity. We speak to Dr Goh Chia-Chien, the Artistic Director of the Musicians Linkage group of ensembles, to find out more.

Image credit: Musicians Linkage (via Peatix)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Bhai Mardana International Festival of Music 2024, titled Raga Rang, is set to take place, organised by the Bhai Mardana Sangeet Academy (BMSA) in collaboration with Thrive Talent Tank. This maiden festival celebrates the rich heritage of Indian classical music and dance, and features a stellar lineup of local talents and renowned artists from India. The two-day event promises mesmerizing performances, including Israj recitals, Kathak dance, Carnatic and Dhrupad renditions, and rare instruments like the Taus. With a mission to preserve and promote Indian classical traditions, the event pays tribute to Bhai Mardana, Guru Nanak Dev’s companion, while offering a vibrant cultural experience to audiences. We find out what's in store from what's in store from Arvinder Singh Raina (festival founder and owner, Bhai Mardana Sangeet Academy) and Harsimran Singh Raina (festival Co-organiser and Project Manager, Bhai Mardana Sangeet Academy).

Image credit: BMSA

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Retro swing sensations Sean Ghazi and Ida Mariana are back with Tarakucha! Snapshots, promising a fusion of retro, jazz, and Malaysian flavours. Presenting the Malaysian songbook through the show, the dynamic duo join us to share more about the immersive performances in store, with wall-to-wall musicians spanning the entire BoboKL stage-wall, and which features the 12-piece “terrer-menerrer” big band.

Image credit: BoboKL (via CloudJoi)

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Shantanand Festival of Arts has always been a platform for celebrating cultural heritage and artistic innovation. This year, the festival dives into the Ramayana, reimagining the epic through performances, workshops, and interactive showcases. Festival Director Dr. Dhanya Thurairajah, and Production Director Kishore Krishnan, join us to share insights into the creative process behind this year's festival, what makes this year’s event special, and to share how this three-day event will bring ancient stories to life through dance, music, workshops, and a spectacular feature production titled I AM RA.

Image credit: Temple of Fine Arts

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.