Front Row

Poly is an absurdist play intertwining three tales: a criminal under scrutiny, a cult’s obsessive search for a saviour, and a couple unravelling in the face of betrayal. Written by Ian Skatu, this surreal exploration of communication and human connection blends mystery, humour, and chaos, to challenge the audience’s perception of reality in a world teetering on the edge of absurdity. We speak to director Cheong Chua and actor Omar Ali, to find out more.

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Mélange in art is the fusion of diverse ideas, styles, materials, or cultures to craft something distinctive. Much like a collage, it brings together contrasting elements—traditional and modern techniques, global and local influences, or various art forms like painting, music, and sculpture. This is the theme of Beautiful Mélange, a group art exhibition presented by Satu: Creative Collective, featuring the works of Ady Ezwan Nordin, Azaikmal Ahmad Rashid, Burhanuddin Bakri, Elias Yamani Ismail, Muhammad Nasrullah Rokes and Mat Ramli Mansor. Visual artists Mat Ramli and Burhanuddin Bakri join us to share more.

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Art often reflects the artist’s journey, but for Kevin Loo, it also tells the story of his evolving relationship with his son. In his latest exhibition at Awe Gallery, Huios: Sons, Kevin and his 8-year-old son, Alexander, have created a body of work that reflects the power of generational connection through abstract expressionism. We explore the story behind the exhibition with Kevin and Alexander, and discuss how father and son worked together to bring their shared vision to life.

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Harith Iskander needs little introduction - he’s often called the ‘Godfather of Malaysian Stand-Up Comedy,’ and with good reason too. Over 35 years, he has carved a unique space in the comedy world, blending sharp observations with humour that resonates across cultures. As he prepares for his upcoming performance, DFP Punchline: Harith Iskander, 35 Years of Laughter at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, we sit down with Harith to reflect on his journey, his comedic philosophy, and what audiences can expect from this milestone celebration.

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Dato' Zahim Albakri, Executive Producer and Director | Ida Nerina, Executive Producer

Description: For nearly three decades, Jit Murad’s plays and performances touched audiences with their humor, honesty, and sharp reflections on Malaysian identity and society. Now, on what would have been his 65th birthday, the theatre community will celebrate his extraordinary legacy in What A Load of Jit, a one-night-only celebration of his life and work. We speak to director Dato’ Zahim Albakri and Ida Nerina, two of the show’s Executive Producers, to talk about Jit’s impact, the process of creating this special performance, and the memories they cherish most about their friend.

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Experience the best of Broadway in Kuala Lumpur with Musical Treasures, a vibrant showcase of beloved musicals, which isn’t just a treat for theatre lovers - it’s a call to action in the fight against cancer. With a dynamic cast and a mission to inspire, this latest production by choreographer Farah Sulaiman is hoping to raise RM300,000 for Cancer Research Malaysia’s pioneering initiatives. We speak with vocal coach Alesia Dhana, and Yoon Sook Yee, a Genetic Counsellor with Cancer Research Malaysia, to find out more.

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“Searching…” weaves together four short musicals, from a father’s frantic search for his missing daughter to a young couple exploring love through their GPS device. These intimate stories explore heartache and healing, capturing the fleeting moments often overlooked in daily life. Presented by TUTAS Conservatory's seventh graduating class, this inaugural musical, written by Nick Choo and directed by Christopher Ling, is a poignant journey of hope and memory, celebrating the resilience that connects loss and rediscovery. We speak to castmembers Jerry Pang and Jane Te to find out more.

Image credit: The Actors Studio

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Invisible Habitudes is a contemporary dance performance that explores the intricacies of identity, belonging, and diversity, in a rapidly shifting world. The evocative performance has captivated audiences across Europe, and is now coming to Malaysia this month, presented by The Human Expression Dance Company (T.H.E Dance Company), led by Kuik Swee Boon, the Founding Artistic Director and Main Choreographer. Swee Boon joins us to share his insights on the creative process and universal themes of the work, and what he thinks makes this piece resonate so deeply with audiences across cultures.

Image credit: T.H.E Dance Company

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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

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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.

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