The Actors Studio presents The Sisters Soong with award-winning cast

The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac) is set to host one of the most anticipated theatrical events of the year with the premiere of The Sisters Soong. Slated to run from 31 August to 8 September in Pentas 1, this production is a remarkable highlight for The Actors Studio Seni Teater Rakyat in 2024.

This play, written by Joe Hasham OAM and directed by Dato’ Dr. Faridah Merican, marks a significant milestone as it is the first time Merican will direct a play written by her husband in over three decades.

A story of strength and intrigue

The Sisters Soong chronicles the lives of three extraordinary sisters who played pivotal roles in 20th century China. Born in China and educated in America, the Soong sisters each made their mark during tumultuous times. “Big Sister” Ai-ling married banker H.H. Kung, who later became Finance Minister. “Red Sister” Ching-ling married Sun Yat-sen, the Father of Modern China, and “Little Sister” Mei-ling married Chiang Kai-shek. Merican expressed her deep admiration for these influential women, saying, “I wanted to tell the story of three extraordinary and strong women who made their mark during a tumultuous period dominated by men.”

Hasham, who conducted extensive research before writing the play, shared, “The dramatic nuances throughout the play have been treated with a modicum of artistic licence. I started writing this play in January this year after some 500 pages worth of research. I am certain modern-day audiences will enjoy this entertaining presentation complete with dance and music as well as a dash of history.”

Bringing the story to life

The Sisters Soong will be performed by an award-winning cast, featuring Omar Ali as the Narrator, Season Chee as Charlie Soong, Ruby Yap as Soong Ai-ling, Jerry Pang as H.H. Kung, MayJune Tan as Soong Ching-ling, Dennis Lee as Sun Yat-sen, Jane Tee as Soong Mei-ling, Tan Li Yang as Chiang Kai-shek, Priscilla Wong as Ni Kwei-tseng, and Xavier Chen as Celebrant, alongside an ensemble of ten.

The production will transport audiences to early 1900s China with stunning scenography by Yusman Mokhtar and costumes designed by fashion couturier Beatrice Looi. Choreography by Kenny Shim, live music featuring original compositions by Tan Zhi Yong, and performances by an ensemble of eight musicians led by Maestro Lee Kok Leong, along with a guest singer, add to the spectacle.

klpac Connect, supported by Yayasan Sime Darby, offers schools the opportunity to obtain sponsored student tickets free of charge, prioritizing first-timers from public schools and high-need areas. Additionally, post-show talks on 1 and 8 September will provide audiences with deeper insights into the creation process and the talents involved in bringing this extraordinary production to life.

Tickets for The Sisters Soong are priced from RM78 to RM188, with a super early bird promotion available until 31 July starting at RM58. Concession pricing is also available, and tickets can be purchased online via www.cloudjoi.com.