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The Star
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Modern twist takes traditional wayang kulit to global stage
CONCERNS over the declining popularity of wayang kulit, Malaysia's traditional shadow puppetry, have spurred three artists to innovate, ensuring the heritage art remains relevant, especially among the young. Founded in 2012 by Muhammad Dain Othman, Tintoy Chuo and Teh Take Huat, Fusion Wayang Kulit merges traditional Kelantanese wayang kulit with modern elements, introducing new narratives and iconic pop culture characters to captivate contemporary audiences. Muhammad Dain, a 13th-generation Tok Dalang (puppet master) of traditional Kelantanese wayang kulit, explained that shifting audience interests drove their innovation while steadfastly preserving the art form's original structure. 'Kelantanese wayang kulit is fading due to a lack of interest, especially among young people. If this continues, the art may eventually disappear. 'So, we thought, why not do something to keep the art form alive,' he told Bernama at Fusion Wayang Kulit gallery in GMBB in Jalan Robertson, Kuala Lumpur. Fusion Wayang Kulit combines traditional Kelantan wayang kulit elements with a modern touch by introducing new storytelling and iconic characters from popular culture to attract audiences. — Bernama Fusion Wayang Kulit's journey into modern characters began with the Star Wars franchise, featuring puppets of Darth Vader, Skywalker, Princess Leia and Stormtroopers. Their debut performance in 2013 was a resounding success, opening doors for international showcases in Australia, China, Germany and Japan. Muhammad Dain, 73, stressed that despite incorporating modern elements, they remained committed to the traditional Kelantanese wayang kulit format, maintaining its five key characteristics of music, language/ dialogue, performance, puppetry and characters. He explained that they modified the 'outside story' segment of the show, a portion separate from the core narrative, which allows the Tok Dalang to adapt content to current contexts without altering the main storyline. His team also conducts workshops to train the younger generation in wayang kulit. Initially, Fusion Wayang Kulit faced resistance from some traditionalists who feared their innovations compromised authenticity. However, clear explanations led to understanding and acceptance. 'I have received support from international experts who agree that incorporating new elements does not undermine the fundamental principles of Kelantanese wayang kulit,' said Muhammad Dain, who has been involved in the art since the 1980s. To date, Fusion Wayang Kulit has created shadow puppet designs inspired by DC superheroes (Justice League), Sony PlayStation video games (Horizon Forbidden West, God of War), Japanese mecha (Evangelion, Gundam) as well as Japanese tokusatsu (Ultraman, Kamen Rider). The group's foray into modern characters began with the 'Star Wars' franchise, featuring puppets of Darth Vader and Skywalker among others. They also developed the world's first transforming wayang kulit puppets, inspired by the Macross anime series. The Fusion Wayang Kulit team, comprising about 20 members, has performed in Austria, China, Germany, Japan, Singapore and Thailand. They were even invited to lecture at Pixar Animation Studios in California, US. 'Performing abroad is a step towards introducing Malaysia's cultural heritage to a wider audience,' said Muhammad Dain. 'We want wayang kulit to thrive, not just be a distant memory. Our hope is to inspire more people to revive and elevate this art form to a global level.'
Rakyat Post
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Rakyat Post
From Lightsabers To Love: Top Things To Do This May Weekend For Star Wars Fans & Moms
Subscribe to our FREE The first week of May is jam packed with activities and events so we've picked some we think everyone can enjoy! Star Wars Pewter Bowl Workshop | Until 31 May | Royal Selangor Visitor Centre | RM95/pax Treat the Star Wars fan in your life to a special pewter bowl making workshop at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre. Guests will be taken through the basic steps of forming the special edition Star Wars pewter bowl and adding a special stamp and initials to their handmade bowl. May the fourth be with you! To book your spot, fill up the Google Form On 10 May, there's a Star Wars costume competition from 2pm to 4pm. To sign up, fill up the Google Form Throughout the month of May, there'll be Star Wars-themed activities and The Reflection: A Neurodiversity Journey | 1-11 May | GMBB | 11am-8pm | Free public event Organised by Yayasan Gamuda's Enabling Academy, The Reflection: A Neurodiversity Journey features real stories that will deepen your understanding of neurodiveristy. The stories are presented in an immersive tunnel. Guests will get to meet Aiden, Zaya, and Lena while they share their experience living with autism, dyslexia, and ADHD. There are also creative workshops led by neurodivergent adults. Couch Potato Screening: Total Recall | 7 May | Cryroom | 9pm onwards | Min RM10/pax contribution Paul Verhoeven's 1990 film Total Recall stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as Douglas Quaid, a construction worker who tries to find the reason behind his recurring dream about Mars. He soon learns he was implanted with a false memory and the people responsible for this wants him dead. Door opens at 8.15pm and screening starts at 9pm on the dot. Remember to book your spot by filling the Google Form Eurasian Quatro: Vinyl to Viral | 8 May | Jaotim | 8.30pm onwards | RM80/pax It's not Friday yet but you can start the party early! The Eurasian Quatro comprised of Mario, Julio, Chester, and Emmanuel is bringing guests on a journey through time and space right up from the 50s til today. Remmeber to get your tickets at Jaotim's official website Gavin Yap: Fork It | 8-10 May | Bobo KL | 8.30pm onwards | RM125/pax Actor Gavin Yap is back with a fully polished version of his one-man show, Fork It: One Man's Journey Through Food & Memories. The spicy show written by Yap and Honey Ahmad covers his most vivid memories inspired by food. Remember to book your tickets from Bobo KL's website Campus Market: Mother's Day | 8-11 May | The Campus Ampang | 11am-10pm | Free public event Spend time with mum at the lively curated market happening at The Campus Ampang this weekend. In conjunction with Mother's Day, the Campus Market is showcasing an impressive art collection by over 30 talented artisans. There'll also be lots of interesting gifts to get for mum and fun workshops for the family to join. Serba Serbi: Lace & Light | 9-12 May | Central Market | 10am-10pm | Free public event Serba Serbi Lace & Light Edition market is a vibrant celebration of fashion, crafts, and creativity. Guests can slowly browse fashionable wears, join fun workshops, and also turn up with their best lace-inspired outfit. Winning Strokes by Yap Ze Hern | 9-12 May | GMBB | 11am-8pm | Free public event Artist Yap Ze Hern is holding his first solo exhibition, Winning Strokes, over the weekend. In collaboration with his badminton hero, Leong Jun Hao, Yap is sharing two exclusive artworks and his favourite past pieces. All merchandise proceeds will be channeled to Yayasan Chow Kit, a non-profit that helps at-risk children in Kuala Lumpur. The opening night on 9 May starts from 5pm to 7pm and the exhibition will be open to the public from 10 to 12 May from 11am to 8pm. Under the Shadows of Merdeka | 9-18 May | GMBB | 11am-8pm | Free public event Photographers Azul Adnan and Grace Ho's photographic project is now shown in an exhibition. The project documented the people, places, and moments in the heart of Kuala Lumpur years after achieving Merdeka. For those looking to purchase the magnificent pictures, they can do so here and say Hello to Azul and Grace. Under the Shadows of Merdeka was previously available in a photobook format. Mother's Day on the Court | 11 May | Pickle Social Club | 9am-12pm | RM220 for you and mum Celebrate mum with a fun morning playing pickleball together and a scrumptious brunch at NOA right after. Participants will be guided on the basics of the game in a welcoming environment. The session is beginner friendly and welcome to the whole family too. If you're interested, remember to reserve your spot at Pickle Social Club's official website Sound Bath Sundays with Chelsea | 11 May | Temu House | 10am-11am | RM50/pax Get your Sunday stretches in with a chill sound bath session to prepare for the week ahead on a good note. Sound baths are beneficial in managing stress levels, improving mental and physical health, and generally help your whole body feel better. The session also includes a tea and chat session to keep the Zen vibes going. If you're interested, remember to RSVP at Temu House's official website Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
The Star
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Weekend for the arts: KL Illustration Fair 2025, Dany Che Comics relaunch
KUALA LUMPUR ILLUSTRATION FAIR 2025 Venue: GMBB creative mall, Kuala Lumpur Date: ends May 4 Since opening on Thursday, KL Illustration Fair 2025 has drawn thousands to its expanded edition at GMBB creative mall. With over 180 artist booths across two floors, the fair is a youthful showcase of South-East Asian and international illustration, from zines and prints to posters, toys and art books. Visitors can chat with artists, pick up custom sketches, or catch live demos and drawing sessions throughout the day. There's also a packed line-up of talks, workshops, and exhibitions exploring illustration's role in art, publishing, fashion, and animation. A highlight this year is the showcase of emerging Malaysian illustrators, and digital art mavericks adding fresh local voices to the mix. More info here. Howard Tan's paper collage artwork titled 'Wanderlust'. Photo: Harta Space EXHIBITION: 'MORE MEN (AND A WOMAN) WITH PLANTS' Venue: Harta Space, Ampang, Selangor Date: ends May 30 If you love nature, art, or both, here's an exhibition worth checking out. More Men (And A Woman) With Plants is a group show featuring seven Penang-based artists, each presenting works inspired by plant life - a vital yet often overlooked part of our ecosystem. The line-up includes fused glass artist and co-founder of the series, Fuan Wong, alongside Ch'ng Kiah Kiean, Esther Geh, Howard Tan, IMMJN, MK Cheah, and Thomas Powell. Together, their artworks celebrate Malaysia's rich biodiversity - especially its flora - while also reflecting the nation's cultural and social diversity, something Penang is well known for. This marks the third instalment of the Men In Plants exhibition series, following earlier editions in George Town. With a mix of mediums and visual styles, the botanical exhibition is a gentle but vivid reminder that diversity, both natural and social, is what makes Malaysia truly unique. Keep an eye out for workshops and artist-led tours happening throughout the exhibition period. More info here. Ramlan Abdullah (right) shares insights on his work 'Multiplicity' during the opening of Tali Art Gallery and the 'Transmapping' exhibition last weekend. Photo: Danny Stones EXHIBITION: 'TRANSMAPPING' Venue: Tali Art Gallery, Petaling Jaya Date: ends May 24 If you find yourself wandering around Petaling Jaya in search of a fresh art spot, you're in luck. Tali Art Gallery, a new addition to the local art scene, is located in a corner lot of the Jam PJ lifestyle hub, just behind Gasket Alley Art in Section 13. It opened its doors last weekend with a debut group show titled Transmapping. Founded by Frenchman Thomas Martin, the exhibition brings together a diverse line-up, featuring local artists Ramlan Abdullah and Syahnan Anuar alongside Jean-Bernard Barsamian, Alice Dixon, Eunice Jack, Kathleen Paddoon, Agung Pramana, Kitikong Tilokwattanotai, Lea Valentin, and Marina Vandra. The show presents contemporary works from Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Australia, and France in a cross-cultural dialogue. Featuring installations, paintings, sculptures, and prints, Transmapping - curated by Martin - highlights art as a medium that connects spaces, geographies, and individual perspectives. Admission is free. More info here. Husband-and-wife duo Dany Che and Danica Airish, co-founders of Dany Che Comics, are all set to relaunch their indie comic store this weekend with a fresh space and big plans for local fans. Photo: The Star/Daryl Goh BOOKSHOP EVENT: DANY CHE COMICS BOOKSHOP RELAUNCH Venue: Dany Che Comics, Amcorp Mall, Petaling Jaya Date: May 4 and 5 Dany Che Comics in Petaling Jaya is relaunching this weekend in a brand new, bigger space - and it's looking like a must-visit for comic book fans. The upgraded indie store now houses thousands of titles, ranging from classic superhero sagas to indie favourites and local comics. Whether you're a longtime reader or just getting into the scene, you'll find something to spark your curiosity. To mark the occasion, Dany Che Comics is also taking part in the international Free Comic Book Day event for the first time. Visitors can look forward to free issues, limited-edition releases, and a few exclusive surprises - perfect for discovering new series or picking up something special. On Sunday, local comic artists David Sundra and Uzair Rashid will be making an appearance for a meet-and-greet session, complete with signings and conversations about their creative process and upcoming projects. And yes - since it's May the 4th, you're absolutely welcome to show up in cosplay, especially if you're repping the Star Wars universe. More info here. A view of 'The Plantation Plot' exhibition at Ilham Gallery in Kuala Lumpur. Photo: Ilham Gallery EXHIBITION: 'THE PLANTATION PLOT' Venue: Ilham Gallery, Kuala Lumpur Date: ends Sept 21 The Plantation Plot is an art exhibition featuring the work of 28 artists from South-East Asia and the Americas, showing how plantations shaped the world we live in today. The exhibition, curated by Lim Sheau Yun, looks at plantations, which were big farms that grew just one kind of crop, like sugar or rubber, to sell across the globe. These farms were part of European empires that grew wealthy by using people's labor to harvest crops. The exhibition takes inspiration from Jamaican writer Sylvia Wynter, who thought of plantations not just as places, but also as stories about power and control. Plantations needed a lot of workers, many of whom were forced to travel far from their homes. For example, workers from India and Sri Lanka were sent to harvest tea, while people from the Amazon were made to collect rubber on land they already owned. Many of these workers were treated as less important than the crops they were forced to grow, and their lives were changed forever. This exhibition is a collaboration between Ilham Gallery and Kadist, a global non-profit arts organisation that uses art to spark conversation about important social issues. More info here. Kameelah's 'Air Shaft Study I–III', suspended in Wei-Ling Gallery's atrium, uses overlapping banners to explore language, space, and perception. Photo: Wei-Ling Gallery EXHIBITION: 'A COLLOQUY' Venue: Wei-Ling Gallery Kuala Lumpur Date: ends May 17 Wei-Ling Gallery presents A Colloquy, a group exhibition featuring eight contemporary artists whose practices investigate the complexities of language and typography as forms of expression. Among the highlights are the Malaysian debuts of Kameelah Janan Rasheed (United States) and Cian Dayrit (Philippines), both internationally recognised for their critical engagement with text-based art. On view through May 17, the exhibition spans the entire gallery space in Brickfields and includes works by Choy Chun Wei, H. H. Lim, Ivan Lam, Marcos Kueh, Tan Zi Hao, and Yin Yin Wong (Netherlands). Through diverse approaches - ranging from installation and painting to print and mixed media - the artists examine typography not merely as a vehicle for clarity, but as a mutable, expressive medium shaped by cultural and technological shifts. More info here. A close-up view of 'A Pop Up Book Of Endangered Wildlife In Malaysia'. Photo: Matt Made Studios BOOK LAUNCH: 'A POP UP BOOK OF ENDANGERED WILDLIFE IN MALAYSIA' Venue: Sunda Shelves, Damansara Kim, Petaling Jaya Date: May 4 Papercraft studio Matt Made Studios is launching its debut children's pop-up book, A Pop Up Book Of Endangered Wildlife In Malaysia this Sunday at Sunda Shelves at 4pm. Full of colourful visuals, tactile pop-up elements, and fun facts about 10 iconic animals, such as the Malayan tiger, the tapir and the sun bear, this educational book was thoughtfully crafted to ignite curiosity and appreciation for the country's endangered wildlife among children - and the young at heart. The book is also printed on recyclable and biodegradable paper, and each copy is produced in small batches based on pre-orders to encourage mindful, sustainable production. Author Matthew Lee will be present to share his creative process and journey in papercraft. He will also be doing a demonstration on the art of papercrafting. Spaces are limited, so pre-registration is required. More info here.
The Star
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
KL Illustration Fair 2025 goes big this year, expanding its scale and ambition
Syukur Rani, who works across fine art, murals, and digital media, is one of the featured artists at KLIF 2025. Photo: Syukur Rani The Kuala Lumpur Illustration Fair (KLIF) 2025 returns this week, bigger and bolder than ever, taking over three floors of the GMBB creative mall in Kuala Lumpur with a mix of artist booths, gallery showcases, art rooms, and interactive installations. This year's fair, from May 1-4, features 180 artists, illustrators, toy makers and designers from Malaysia, South-East Asia and beyond. Visitors start at the ground floor before exploring the Greybox, with the fourth and fifth floors showcasing KLIF 2025's artist line-up. "KLIF now takes a more immersive, inclusive approach, shifting from a showcase format to a dynamic mix of exhibitions, artist booths, talks, and live drawing — encouraging deeper audience engagement and creator dialogue,' says Si Juan, a curator and one of KLIF's pioneer team members. With its expanded format and rising profile, KLIF 2025 aims to draw 10,000 attendees - reflecting growing regional interest in illustration and visual storytelling. Photo: KLIF "With a 10,000 visitor target in sight, KLIF has also placed stronger emphasis on thematic zoning, highlighting regional narratives, emerging talent, and industry relevant topics through dedicated spaces like the Asian City Pavilion and Illustration Futures segment. These curated sections not only guide audience flow but also provide layers of discovery and storytelling. The fair's expanded programming now integrates community-driven content and collaborative projects, making it both a celebration and catalyst for illustration culture in the region," he adds. The featured artists include Enya Lim, a Malaysian teenager who blends her skateboarding spirit with artistic flair; Naho Ogawa, a Tokyo-based Japanese picture book artist returning to KL after 13 years; Jakarta pop-art sensation Muchlis Fachri (Muklay), known for his urban-inspired work; and multidisciplinary artist Syukur Rani, who combines surrealism and pop art with bold, dreamlike visuals. Visitors can catch live art demos throughout KLIF 2025. Photo: KLIF Also featured are I Love Doodle aka Lim Heng Swee, known for his minimalist, pun-filled doodles (often featuring cats) that spread joy globally; Shafiq Nordin, whose chimeric beasts confront social injustices; and graffiti artist Abdul Rashade (Acit), known for Nusantara flora and fauna. Be sure to also check out "The Reflection Tunnel" on the third floor, an immersive experience by Filamen and Enabling Academy. In this four-room installation, visitors will experience a sensory journey of light, shadow and reflection, urging them to confront societal biases and embrace inclusivity. At 12, Malaysian illustrator Enya Lim is ready to shine at KLIF 2025. Photo: Enya Lim "In collaboration with Enabling Academy via GMBB, we created an immersive tunnel experience to raise awareness about neurodiversity - especially ADHD, autism, and dyslexia - using art and tech to make complex topics more engaging and interactive for KLIF," says Abdul Shakir, one of the co-founders of digital art outfit Filamen. On the fourth floor is a continuation of KLIF's collaboration with Yunnan Arts University, as well as an exhibition by ArtPage x A4A Gallery, featuring works by Chinese artist Lin Wenjun (Junc). Curious about Taiwan? The Taipei Corners initiative, by Taipei City's Department of Cultural Affairs, is highlighting 10 Taiwanese illustration and IP brands. Kuala Lumpur Illustration Fair, now in its third edition, is a ticketed event. More info here.
Rakyat Post
29-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Rakyat Post
May Weekend: Things To See And Do Around The City
Subscribe to our FREE It's gonna be May! As always, there are lots of activities in store over the weekend and the next. There are concerts, open mic nights, and also a workshop to craft a gift for your mum for Mother's Day. Fool and Idiot concert | 30 April | PJPAC | 8.30pm | Ticketed event Taiwanese eclectic pop band Fool and Idiot is performing live for the first time in Malaysia at PJPAC. The band gained th Golden Melody Awards. Remember to get your tickets from OneTix The Art of Ejen Ali | 1 May | GMBB | 3pm | Free The Kuala Lumpur Illustration Fair (KLIF) 2025 is happening from 1 to 4 May with lots of interesting and insightful sessions with industry creators, artists, and illustrators. On 1 May, WAU Animation, the creators of Ejen Ali will be sharing about their work and the process for those who are interested in animation. Check KLIF's official Instagram page The Little Ville '25 | 1-4 May | Central Market | 10am-10pm | Free public event The Little Ville market is back with trendy fashion clothes and accessories, delicious food and drinks, and fun-filled activities for everyone to enjoy. Expect live performances and family-friendly activities like large board games, face painting, sand art, and an inflatable playground. Chapter In The City | 1-4 May | Starhill | 10am-10pm | Free public event Chapter In The City is not your typical book club but an immersive celebration of culture, community, and creativity. Aside from book discussions, there are activities like poem writing, momtails (mocktail) making, Chinese calligraphy workshop, sound therapy sessions, and live music performances. If you Cinco de Mayo Street Fiesta | 3 May | REXKL | 12pm-10pm | Free public event Come and enjoy some Mexican street food at the street fiesta happening in REXKL this Saturday. As always, it's going to be party with live music and special cocktails to go with all the tasty food available. Mother's Day Gift | 4 May | GMBB | 1pm-3.30pm | RM60/pax Cherryblossom Studio in GMBB is holding a workshop where participants can craft a Mother's Day gift. Participants are guided in designing a mengkuang jewellery box as a lasting gift for their beloved mum. The workshop is open to children above 12 years old and adults. The fees include materials and light refreshments. The Making of Jokes | 6 May | Jaya One | 8.30pm | Free public event End the work day with lots of laughs at Jaya One next week. Gajen Nad and Study Melbourne present The Making of Jokes where eight comedians will be testing new materials and you'll be one of the many guinea pigs. The open mic is free and open to the public but there are limited seats. Remember to reserve your seats Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
