Kwai Chai Hong revives tradition with interactive Chinese Opera Art

Kwai Chai Hong, nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s historic core, is once again making waves with its latest Mid-Autumn art installation, “Drama Queen 月映戲伶.” This installation is more than just an artistic display; it’s a passionate endeavor to breathe new life into the fading art of Chinese Opera. This centuries-old form of drama, which intricately weaves music, dance, martial arts, and literature, is now facing the threat of extinction in Malaysia. Through this installation, Kwai Chai Hong hopes to rekindle interest and awareness, particularly among the younger generation.

Chinese Opera is one of the world’s oldest and most complex dramatic art forms, tracing its roots back to the Three Kingdoms Period (A.D. 220–265). Its performances are a rich tapestry of music, dance, acrobatics, and literary arts, each element meticulously crafted to create a profound theatrical experience. However, despite its deep cultural significance, Chinese Opera has been in decline in Malaysia. During its peak between the 1950s and 1980s, Malaysia boasted around 180 active Chinese Opera troupes. Today, less than ten remain, a stark reflection of the art form’s dwindling presence.

Zeen Chang, Managing Partner of Bai Chuan Management, expressed concern over this decline, noting, “Chinese Opera is one of the treasures of our collective cultural heritage.” The “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” installation is a significant step toward reversing this trend. By inviting the public to engage with the art form through the #LongLiveChineseOpera movement, Kwai Chai Hong aims to revive interest and appreciation for this intricate cultural gem.

A modern interpretation of a timeless tradition

The “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” installation is a collaborative effort between local artist Tan Sher Lynn and 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. This installation is not just about preserving tradition; it’s about making it relevant and appealing to contemporary audiences.

Visitors to Kwai Chai Hong are greeted by illuminated “Flower Faces” (花臉) as they cross the iconic Red Bridge. The modern minimalist tunnel structure, inspired by a Chinese Opera Doyenne’s headdress, invites visitors to step “into the mind of a doyenne.” As they move through the installation, visitors can interact with the art, creating their own shadow plays that become part of the display. This phygital (physical and digital) experience showcases Chinese Opera’s aesthetics through new media, blending ancient art with modern technology.

A standout feature of the installation is Sher Lynn’s “Dancing Sleeves,” a tribute to the graceful movements of Chinese Opera performers. The installation captures the fluidity and emotional depth of the art form, with augmented reality enhancing the experience by representing the five main roles in Chinese Opera: Sheng (male), Dan (female), Jing (painted face), Mo (older men), and Chou (clown).

Preserving cultural heritage in the heart of KL

Kwai Chai Hong’s efforts to preserve and promote Chinese Opera are part of a broader initiative to revitalize Downtown Kuala Lumpur. Supported by Think City, this initiative aims to transform the historic core of the city into a vibrant cultural hub. Dato’ Hamdan Abdul Majeed, Managing Director of Think City, highlighted the importance of such efforts, stating, “We are proud to continue supporting Kwai Chai Hong in revitalising Downtown KL’s heritage while infusing creativity and culture into the city.”

The “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” installation is featured as part of the Kreatif KL Festival’s Arts On The Move Programme, which seeks to engage the community and enrich the city’s cultural landscape. This installation, along with other creative initiatives, is helping to foster a renewed appreciation for Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage.

A blend of tradition and innovation

In addition to the “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” installation, visitors to Kwai Chai Hong can experience the vibrant blend of tradition and modernity through the Augmented Reality Festival Kuala Lumpur 2024. Kwai Chai Hong’s iconic murals, including “Little Girl Peering Out of the Window” and “The Couple Wall,” will come to life through augmented reality, offering a dynamic and immersive experience.

Kwai Chai Hong will be open to the public daily from 9 AM to 12 AM, with the “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” installation running from 16 August 2024 to 22 September 2024. Additionally, the venue will host a live performance by one of the last remaining Cantonese Chinese Opera troupes, Kam Sin Kiew Art Crew, on 24 and 31 August 2024. This performance will be a rare opportunity to witness the beauty of Chinese Opera in its traditional form.

For more information, visit Kwai Chai Hong’s social media platforms or their website at www.kwaichaihong.com.