Kwai Chai Hong has officially launched their 2024 Mid-Autumn art installation, titled “Drama Queen 月映戲伶”, aims to revitalize Chinese Opera by showcasing its grandeur and beauty. Chinese Opera, dating back to the Three Kingdoms Period, is a complex art form that combines music, dance, martial arts, acrobatics, and literary arts. However, it is facing challenges in Malaysia due to modernization and a lack of interest among the younger generation.
With only a few Chinese Opera troupes remaining in Malaysia, efforts are being made to preserve this century-old entertainment tradition. Through the “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” installation, created in collaboration with local artist Tan Sher Lynn, visitors can experience a blend of physical and digital art that showcases the aesthetics of Chinese Opera in a modern context.
Zeen Chang, Managing Partner of Bai Chuan Management, said “Chinese Opera is one of the treasures of our collective cultural heritage.” According to a report, during the heydays of Malaysian Chinese Opera in the 1950s-1980s, there were about 180 active troupes. In 2022, there were less than ten remaining Chinese Opera troupes in Malaysia, and this number continues to dwindle as years go by.
Through “Drama Queen 月映戲伶”, we have put a step forward to create curiosity amongst our audience and we hope everyone will do the same by joining our #LongLiveChineseOpera movement, raising awareness and participating in this intricate art form.”
The “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” art installation is a proud collaborative effort with talented local artist Tan Sher Lynn, Creative Technologist from FABU, supported by Budget 2024, and facilitated by Think City and the Ministry of Finance as part of the Kreatif KL Festival, which extends beyond the preservation of cultural heritage and art, but also making it appeal to younger generations.
The installation features illuminated “Flower Faces” and a tunnel structure inspired by a Chinese Opera Doyenne’s headdress, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the art form. Another highlight is the “Dancing Sleeves” masterpiece, symbolizing the grace and elegance of Chinese Opera performances. Through Augmented Reality, the installation showcases the five main roles of Chinese Opera, blending ancient art with modern technology.
By preserving and promoting Chinese Opera, Kwai Chai Hong aims to create awareness and appreciation for this cultural heritage. Supported by organizations like Think City and the Ministry of Finance, the installation is part of the Kreatif KL Festival, which aims to engage younger generations in traditional art forms.
In addition to the art installation, Kwai Chai Hong’s murals will also come to life through Augmented Reality as part of the AR Fest Kuala Lumpur. Visitors can experience these interactive murals and explore the vibrant partnership between art and digital innovation.
These immersive showcases are part of Malaysia’s very first AR festival, running from 30 August – 30 November 2024, featuring AR artworks and installations throughout Kuala Lumpur. For further information, visit https://arfestkl.com/.
Kwai Chai Hong will be open to the public daily from 9AM to 12AM. The “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” installation will be available from 16 August 2024 to 22 September 2024. Additionally, Kwai Chai Hong also has the honour to present one of the last remaining Cantonese Chinese Opera troupes, Kam Sin Kiew Art Crew, led by Grand Master & Doyenne, Kam Sin Kiew, to perform the scene “Fragrant Sacrifice 香夭” from the epic Chinese Opera “Princess Flower 帝女花” on 24 and 31 August 2024. Further information about the performance will be announced on Kwai Chai Hong’s social media.