Theatresauce to represent Malaysia at AYTF 2024

Theatresauce, a director-driven theatre collective, has been selected to represent Malaysia at the prestigious 2024 Asian Youth Theatre Festival (AYTF) in Chiang Mai, Thailand. This six-day event, themed “Changing Climates,” will see over 200 artists from 20 theatre groups across 14 Asian countries come together to address pressing environmental concerns through performance art, workshops, and cross-cultural dialogue. Established in 2016, AYTF is dedicated to bridging cultural gaps and fostering understanding through theatre.

“This is a chance to learn from voices across Asia and see how our struggles, joys, and ideas intersect,” said Theatresauce team member Tharanii Karthigesu.

Highlighting Kuala Lumpur’s urban challenges

The Malaysian contingent will present a bold street performance titled “Beware: Si Oompur Lumpur,” inspired by the recent sinkhole incidents in Kuala Lumpur. The interactive piece reflects on the challenges of urban development and sustainability, blending the urgency of real-world issues with creative storytelling.

“The fear of something like that happening close to home makes this story one that’s rooted in both love and urgency,” shared multimedia designer Jazzie Lee. “Bringing this story to AYTF feels like a way of bringing my city with me, showing others what we’re facing, and hopefully sparking conversations on how we all deal with the landscapes we live in and the safety we long for.”

In addition to the performance, Theatresauce will conduct a workshop titled “Transformation Through Theatre,” which emphasizes climate awareness by encouraging participants to craft stories using repurposed materials. Team member Mia Sabrina will also join other artists in a collaborative multicultural piece for the festival’s closing ceremony.

Nurturing local talent through global experiences

Theatresauce aims to leverage this international platform not just to showcase their work but to bring back valuable insights for the Malaysian arts community. The team, comprising experienced collaborators such as Mia Sabrina Mahadir, Dexter Zhen, and Jazzie Lee, intends to embed these learnings into future projects.

The team stated the opportunity is more than just a performance; it’s a meaningful journey of cultural exchange and mutual learning. By engaging with theatre practitioners from diverse backgrounds, they hope to inspire new collaborations and elevate Malaysia’s presence in the international arts scene.

Crowdfunding campaign for the journey ahead

To support their journey to AYTF, Theatresauce has launched a crowdfunding campaign, running until November 16, 2024. Contributions will help facilitate travel, accommodation, and production costs. Donors will receive exclusive perks, including access to a private preview of “Beware: Si Oompur Lumpur” before its international debut.

Theatresauce invites Malaysians to join this cultural exchange and ensure the nation’s voice resonates on a global stage. Further details are available on the Theatresauce website.