TWISTED: A modern twist on classic fairy tales takes the stage

Gone are the days of princesses waiting helplessly to be rescued by their knights in shining armour. In today’s world, girls are empowered to save themselves, and TWISTED encapsulates this shift. Presented by The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac) and Big Nose Productions, this contemporary production reimagines beloved fairy tales, blending strong, independent characters with a fresh, engaging plot.

Empowering Role Models in a Hilarious Family Show

TWISTED features a lineup of characters who defy traditional fairy tale norms, offering empowering role models for both girls and boys. The story begins with King George and Queen Mary, desperate for an heir to secure their power. With the help of a witch, they are blessed with twin daughters under the condition that they be raised to embody kindness and good virtues.

However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that not everything goes according to plan. Princess Olivia grows up to be vain and selfish, while her twin sister, Princess Otilia, prefers reading books and learning swordsmanship. When Princess Olivia receives a marriage proposal from Prince Henry, a future king, the royal celebration is marred by a proposed tax increase, leading to Princess Otilia’s banishment to the enchanted forest. Here, Otilia meets Prince Henry, and an unexpected friendship blossoms.

A Stellar Cast Brings TWISTED to Life

After a sold-out run at the Performing Arts Centre of Penang (penangpac) in December 2020, TWISTED returns with a new Penang/KL lineup. Karam Tabba leads the cast as Prince Henry, with Sidhart Joe Dev as his loyal servant Finn. Hilda Looi portrays Queen Beatrice, Henry’s domineering mother, while Swarna Naidu stars as the self-absorbed Princess Olivia.

Violacea Low plays the rebellious Princess Otilia, and their parents, King George and Queen Mary, are played by Mithran Balakrishnan and Caroline Yeoh. Alvin Looi, as the Magic Mirror, provides wit and wisdom, and Karynn Tan takes on the role of the cunning Witch. The cast also features 10-year-old Ilia Wong from The Actors Studio (TAS) Academy, adding youthful charm to the production. Directed and adapted by Fa Abdul, TWISTED promises to be a hilarious and highly entertaining show for the entire family.

Tickets for TWISTED are priced at RM50 for adults and RM30 for children, with a concession rate of RM30 available for Preview Night on 18th July. A special Family Package of 4 tickets is available for RM150, allowing entry for 2 adults and 2 children below the age of 12. Tickets can be purchased exclusively online at www.cloudjoi.com, with no phone or counter sales.

Supported by the Penang State Government, TWISTED is set to captivate audiences at Pentas 2, klpac, from 18th to 21st July. For more information, visit cloudjoi.com/shows/twisted-a-different-kind-of-fairy-tale.