BFM :: 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 For Children 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

KL City Opera (KLCO) will be presenting Opera Si! La Bohemia, a stunning reimagining of Puccini's La Bohème, set in 1960s Malaya, celebrating the 100th anniversary of Puccini's death. Directed by Amelia Tan, this production transports audiences to the golden age of P. Ramlee and the Shaw Brothers' film industry, blending classic opera with the cinematic flair and vibrant culture of the era. Featuring a talented double cast, the performances promise a visual and auditory feast, and we find out all about it from conductor Dr Bernard Tan, and tenor Tan Chee Shen.

Dua Space Dance Theatre's upcoming production Purnama explores the moon's symbolism through Malaysia's rich multi-ethnic heritage. Taking inspiration from the moon's phases—new, crescent, quarter, and full—Purnama beautifully intertwines traditional and contemporary dance to reflect the cultural narratives that the moon has inspired throughout human civilisation. We find out more about this performance from Lim Hong Jie, a senior dancer and the Assistant Artistic Director from Dua Space Dance Theatre.Image Credit: Duo Space Dance Theatre Sdn Bhd

We're promised a clucking good time at the upcoming dance production, A Hen-Made Tale, the Dance, a collaboration between KL Shakespeare Players, Kenny Shim Dance Collective, ASK Dance Company, and Asia Ballet Academy. Based on the children's book written by Lim Soon Heng, the story is a whimsical tale of scheming hens, which is now being brought to life through stunning choreography and playful storytelling. We speak to choreographers Kenny Shim, from Kenny Shim Dance Collective, and Imran Syafiq, from the Ask Dance Company (ADC), to find out more about the story, the collaborative effort behind the show, and the importance of making the performing arts accessible to children.

Musical Treasures is an exciting Broadway-inspired fundraiser organised by renowned choreographer Farah Sulaiman, aimed at supporting Persatuan Sindrom Down Malaysia (PSDM). Featuring iconic hits from beloved musicals like Hamilton, Mamma Mia!, and The Sound of Music, the production promises a vibrant song-and-dance spectacle while working to raise RM300,000 for PSDM's essential programs. The show's writer and director, Sabrina Hassan, and guest artist Abdul Muhaimin, join us to share insights into the creative process behind the show, the importance of its charitable mission, and what audiences can expect from this heartwarming performance.Image credit: Musical Treasures

When Earth became a living hell, humanity sought refuge on the Moon, hoping it could restore the lost glory of our civilization. But what happens when our greed and thirst for power emerge once more? Following the success of Orang Bulan, Yusof Bakar completes his science fiction trilogy with two new BM plays—Penakluk Bulan and Pemusnah Bulan. Continuing with the same characters and universe, Trilogi Bulan delves into themes of familial love, Resignation Syndrome, climate change, and AI. Directed by Christopher Ling, we find out what's in store as all three of Yusof's plays are performed in one compelling night from Yusof himself, and cast member Nik Waheeda.

PESZTA, a vibrant arts festival in Kuala Lumpur's historic Kampung Attap, is set to return for its third year over the Malaysia Day weekend. This unique festival, named after a playful twist on the word "Pesta" to incorporate its three main venues—Pentago, SAM Mansion, and The Zhongshan Building—celebrates Malaysia's independence and diversity through a series of community-focused programs. We find out what's in store at this year's festival from Liza Ho, the Co-founder of the Zhongshan Building and Sarah Amer, a co-organiser of PESZTA.

Ballet Manila's Greatest Hits in Malaysia, presented by DanceLink, is a dance production featuring Ballet Manila, one of Southeast Asia's premier ballet companies. Led by Artistic Director Lisa Macuja-Elizalde, the first non-Russian artist in the prestigious Kirov Ballet, the show opens with Lisa's rendition of the opera-ballet "La Traviata" and continues with a diverse program of classical, modern, neoclassical, and contemporary pieces. Featuring soprano Anna Migallos, baritone Roby Malubay, and tenor Nohmer Nival, the event also celebrates cultural ties by showcasing Malaysian artists, coinciding with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Malaysia. Artistic Director Lisa joins us to share what's in store.

The 39 Steps is a high-energy theatrical adventure combining mystery, espionage, and humour. Adapted from John Buchan's novel and Alfred Hitchcock's classic film, it follows the dashing Richard Hannay, whose ordinary life is upended when a mysterious woman claiming to be a spy is murdered in his flat. Now on the run from a shadowy organisation called “The 39 Steps,” Hannay navigates a whirlwind of intrigue across London and the Scottish Highlands. With over 80 characters brought to life by a talented cast, this comedy blends Hitchcockian suspense with Monty Python-esque slapstick. Presented by Limelight Theatre, we find out more from the show's creators and cast members, Joe Wyatt and Nikki Brown.

A Reason for Falling is a contemporary dance performance by Malaysian artist Hwa Wei-An that invites the audience to reconsider the concept of falling as more than just a loss of balance, but as a moment filled with possibility. Inspired by the thrill of freeriding, Wei-An began developing this work in 2018 during a choreographic residency with Dance Nucleus, aiming to translate the experience of navigating uncharted mountain paths into the flat, open space of a dance floor. Over seven years, the piece evolved through various iterations, including a 2021 video installation and a 2022 live work-in-progress presentation, culminating in this thought-provoking exploration of gravity, surrender, and movement. Wei-An joins us to share more.

The Barehands Residency (BR) was established by Malaysian artist Juhari Said in 2010, and is a dedicated space for artists to collaborate and exchange ideas. Located in Hulu Langat on a four-acre property called Akal di Ulu, the residency has welcomed artists from around the world, creating an environment that encourages creativity and cultural dialogue. Following a successful 2023 residency in partnership with AP Art Gallery, BR continues to grow, and the upcoming residency aims to further strengthen these connections and contribute to the broader art community. We find out more from Nazura Rahime, the Project Manager of the Barehands Residency, and Kazutaka Shioi, the resident artist for this year's residency.

The Poetics Collective, under the banner of VerSeS Music Ensembles, will be performing the romantic and expressive works of Johannes Brahms, Robert Schumann and Clara Schumann. Featuring Robert Schumann's Kinderszenen (Scenes from Childhood), Clara Schumann's Three Romances for Violin and Piano, Opus 22, and Johannes Brahms's Liebeslieder Waltzes, Opus 52, this program delves into the richness of German Romantic music, featuring both instrumental works and a variety of lieder (songs). These lieders will demonstrate the composers' skill in setting text to music for solo voice or instrument. We speak to pianists Darrel Chan and Iau Jo Yee from The Poetics Collective, to find out what's in store.

The Sisters Soong is a new production by The Actors Studio Seni Teater Rakyat, weaving a dramatic tale that spans the personal and political spheres of three of the most influential women in 20th-century China. Written by Joe Hasham OAM and directed by Dato' Dr. Faridah Merican, this play blends history and fiction to explore the lives of the Soong sisters—Ai-ling, Ching-ling, and Mei-ling—who each played pivotal roles in shaping modern China. Set against a backdrop of political upheaval and familial loyalty, the play promises an engaging theatrical experience, enhanced by live music, intricate choreography, and stunning period costumes. We find out what's in store from two of the production's actors, Season Chee who is playing the character Charlie Soong, and Jane Tee, who is portraying Soong Mei-ling.

lowercase laboratories are set to present its debut text adaptation production of Shakespeare's Titus Andronicus, which hopes to offer a fresh, innovative take on the classic play, focusing on the psychological depth of the characters and the brutal consequences of their choices. Known for its extreme violence and themes of revenge, this adaptation uses real, dead, and dried flowers to symbolise violence and decay, creating a hauntingly beautiful visual experience. We speak to director Low Yee Choy, and actor Farah Rani, to discuss this staging of Shakespeare's early work, and how this production differs from traditional interpretations.

Bharatha Kalanjalii Malaysia are celebrating their 50th anniversary, kicking off a year-long calendar of events with the Bharatanatyam dance performance, Swarnarekha. The school was co-founded in 1974 by Srimathi Meera Venugopal, a distinguished disciple of the renowned Dhananjayan duo, who has been working hard ever since to promote Indian classical dance here in Malaysia. We catch up with Meera, and also her son Rajdessh Gopal, the Director of the school, to look back at the last school's milestones and challenges, and to discuss their plans for the future, including the performances, workshops, and seminars, in store for their 50th anniversary celebrations.

Nothing Gentle in the Shadows is a film that addresses the stigma and silence surrounding sexual violence against men, exploring how their masculinity is questioned by authorities and society when they come forward. The documentary features three male sexual assault survivors from diverse backgrounds who share their experiences, underscoring that sexual violence can affect anyone, regardless of race, gender, or age. A film co-directed by Joshua Inberaj & Laura Low, Nothing Gentle in the Shadows will premiere at 20th Freedom Film Festival, and we discuss what the documentary film is trying to tackle with its co-directors, Joshua and Laura.

Joseph Hayden's oratorio "The Creation," depicts the biblical creation story from the Book of Genesis, and is set to be performed in Malaysia for the first time since 2013. The one-night-only event, conducted by Prof. Dr. William Weinert from the Eastman School of Music, will feature the Malaysia Bach Festival Singers and Orchestra, and three soloists. We discuss what's in store from Prof Dr David Chin, the Founder and Artistic Director of Bachfest Malaysia, the Director of the Bach Collegium and Music Professor at Augustana University in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and a Senior Fellow of the Bach Archive in Leipzig, Germany.

Nothing Gentle in the Shadows is a film that addresses the stigma and silence surrounding sexual violence against men, exploring how their masculinity is questioned by authorities and society when they come forward. The documentary features three male sexual assault survivors from diverse backgrounds who share their experiences, underscoring that sexual violence can affect anyone, regardless of race, gender, or age. A film co-directed by Joshua Inberaj & Laura Low, Nothing Gentle in the Shadows will premiere at 20th Freedom Film Festival, and we discuss what the documentary film is trying to tackle with its co-directors, Joshua and Laura.

The Taalam Percussion and Solkattu Academy Malaysia (TAPAS Malaysia) are set to launch this Sunday, and will be the first ghatam school in Malaysia, serving Southeast Asia. The launch includes a morning rhythm workshop, and also free evening performances for the public by leading Malaysian Carnatic music practitioners. We discuss ghatam music, and the upcoming events with Karthik Krishnasamy, the Director of TAPAS Malaysia.

Under the direction of Cheryl Mah and guest conductor Damrih Banawitayakit from Thailand's Silpakorn University, An Uncommon Journey III is both a concert and outreach project, spearheaded by The klpac Symphonic Band. At the concert, we're promised Malaysia's brightest young wind, brass, and percussion musicians perform with the Outreach Band and saxophone soloist Mohd Shahrizal Kamal, the 2023 Malaysian Wind Music Prize winner. The concert features 61 musicians aged 16 to 22 from across Malaysia, and will feature new compositions as well. We speak to Cheryl Mah, the Music Director & Resident Conductor of the klpac Symphonic Band, and Dr. Low Chee Meng, the Project Manager of the show, to discuss what's in store.

Noted With Thanks is a new stand up show that captures the unexpected twists of life during and after the global lockdown. While many experienced love, loss, self-discovery, and even new pets, Malaysian comedian Kuah Jenhan took a different path by landing his first "real" job at 34, after a 15-year career in stand-up comedy. Adapting to office life, Jenhan finds himself trading the lively atmosphere of performance workshops for the more mundane corporate brainstorming sessions. "Noted With Thanks" humorously explores how to pursue your dreams by seemingly giving them up, presenting a fish-out-of-water, printer-out-of-paper tale that promises to entertain in a completely safe-for-work manner. We speak to Jenhan to find out more.

After five years, The klpac Orchestra are back with its unique East meets West concert, Tunes from the East II. This upcoming concert will feature a 70-strong orchestra under the direction of Maestro Lee Kok Leong, showcasing some of Malaysia's most talented Chinese instrumentalists. Featuring a mix of renowned pieces and also the premiere of local compositions we find out what's in store from the conductor Kok Leong, and composer Yong Tan, whose piece "Dots" will be performed at the show.

Gone are the days of princesses waiting helplessly to be rescued by knights in shining armour. Twisted reinvents well-known fairy tale characters, intertwining them into a new plot with a contemporary twist, showcasing strong, independent, and realistic leads that serve as empowering role models for both girls and boys. As times change, our fairy tales must evolve to - and Twisted hopes to reflect this modern perspective. We find out what's in store from Fa Abdul, the director and producer of the show, from Big Nose Productions.