Kwai Chai Hong, a cultural gem in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, is breathing new life into the age-old art of Chinese Opera with its latest Mid-Autumn installation, Drama Queen. The vibrant display is more than just an art exhibit, it also serves as a movement to revitalise Chinese Opera. This art form has captivated audiences for centuries but is now seldom practised locally.
Chinese Opera, has its roots stretching back to the Three Kingdoms Period (A.D. 220–265), and is a mesmerising fusion of music, dance, martial arts, and drama. Despite its rich heritage, the number of Chinese Opera troupes in Malaysia has dwindled dramatically, from about 180 in the 1950s-1980s to fewer than 10 today. Kwai Chai Hong, led by managing partner Zeen Chang of Bai Chuan Management, is determined to reverse this decline.
The Drama Queen installation is a collaboration with local artist Tan Sher Lynn and creative technologist FABU, supported by Malaysia’s Budget 2024 and the Kreatif KL Festival. This installation invites visitors to step into the world of Chinese Opera through an immersive ‘phygital’ experience – a blend of physical and digital art. Highlights include the Dancing Sleeves piece, which uses augmented reality to bring to life the graceful movements of Chinese Opera performers, symbolising the fluidity and emotional depth of this ancient art.
Tan, a Malaysian-born creative technologist at FABU – a collective of artistic individuals based in Sunway – earned her degree in Fine Art Experimental Media from Prague College (now Prague City University) in 2020. Her work spans generative visual art, interactive installations, and painting, often exploring themes of identity and space. Tan’s practice delves into the intersection of fiction and reality, encouraging audiences to question the truthfulness and deceptiveness of virtual reconstructions in everyday life.
Visitors are also treated to a journey through a modern minimalist tunnel, inspired by a Chinese Opera doyenne’s headdress, complete with illuminated metallic arches, mist, and flashing lights. This interactive environment allows visitors to become part of the artwork, creating shadow plays as they pass through.
In conjunction with the Mid-Autumn Festival, Kwai Chai Hong’s murals will come alive through augmented reality as part of the AR Festival Kuala Lumpur 2024. This innovative blend of old and new art forms promises to engage a broader audience, especially the younger generation.
Kwai Chai Hong’s efforts are not just about preserving Chinese Opera but ensuring it thrives for future generations. This initiative is a testament to the power of creativity in safeguarding cultural heritage while making it accessible and appealing to a modern audience. As Kwai Chai Hong continues to spearhead the #LongLiveChineseOpera movement, and invites everyone to join in the celebration and preservation of this intricate art form.
The Drama Queen installation is on until September 22, 2024. Don’t miss the special performances by one of the last remaining Cantonese Chinese Opera troupes, Kam Sin Kiew Art Crew, on August 24 and 31. Visit Kwai Chai Hong for a cultural experience that bridges the past and present, honouring the legacy of Chinese Opera with its uniquely modern way.
Check out what else is going on in Kuala Lumpur here.
Images: Kwai Chai Hong