Theater in Malaysia is more of a passion than a profession. On an international level, Malaysian theater does not stand much of a chance when compared to other countries, including the neighboring Singapore.
American and British plays have called the shots in theaters of Malaysia for a long time. However, over the years, Malaysian Theater has grown into a considerable platform. And with its own professional theater forum well developed now, Malaysia is slowly entertaining audiences with plays from its own backyard.
There is virtually no funding or support provided to theater in Malaysia from the government. In the capital city of Kuala Lumpur, you can watch some local work at Actors Studios in the city center or in Bangsar.
Set up by the husband-wife duo of Joe Hasham and Faridah Merican, Actors Studio is the best thing to have happened to professional theater in Malaysia. The studio nurtures actors, directors, writers and almost everybody connected with theater.
Actors Studio is credited with establishing Malaysia's first privately owned theater space. It is a common platform for actors and theater workers to come together and work towards getting their grievances heard and issues addressed. This place has certainly done a world of good for theater in Malaysia.
Since the year 2003, the Cameronean Arts Awards have aimed at boosting and awarding good work done in the field of Malaysian theater.
Chinese opera is another must-see theatrical performance in Malaysia. A music hall mix of dance, drama, dialogue and music, it is a simple, non-literary sort of opera.
The music is almost deafening and the costumes are absolutely brassy. However, the setup is simple and almost nonexistent. Nonetheless, most tourists in Malaysia make it a point to attend at least one opera performance in Malaysia.
Singapore Thailand Malaysia provides information on Theater in Malaysia and offers online booking for Malaysia Tours. For tour booking or further information, please fill the following form.
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