klpac celebrates 20 years with free outdoor concert

The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac) is turning 20 this year, and it’s pulling out all the stops to mark the milestone with a diverse musical offering for the public. Kicking off the celebrations is the free, family-friendly outdoor concert Music Play Date on 11 May 2025, under the leafy banyan tree at klpac’s lush Sentul Park grounds.

Presented under the klpac Connect initiative supported by Yayasan Sime Darby, Music Play Date promises an informal and relaxed setting perfect for first-time concertgoers and families with young children. Attendees are encouraged to bring picnic baskets and mats to enjoy the hour-long session that runs from 10:00am to 11:00am. There’s no dress code or ticket required – just good vibes and an appreciation for music.

The klpac Symphonic Band will give audiences a sneak preview of their upcoming Salam Konnichiwa concert scheduled for September. Anime fans will be treated to iconic melodies from Spirited Away, Totoro, and Demon Slayer, as well as chart-topping Japanese pop hits by YOASOBI. The casual and interactive format includes quizzes and trivia for kids, with chances to win prizes, making it a lively and engaging musical morning for the whole family.

A classical tribute to life’s journey

While Music Play Date offers a casual taste of music, klpac’s second major birthday programme takes a deeper, more introspective turn. From 17 to 18 May, audiences can experience A Whisper of Soul: A Reflection of Life’s Journey, a stirring classical concert featuring The klpac Orchestra with soprano Dr. Ang Mei Foong.

Helmed by Music Director and Resident Conductor Lee Kok Leong, this ticketed concert offers a three-part musical narrative inspired by Dr. Ang’s personal and professional evolution. From the early days of chasing dreams to embracing wisdom and reflection, the programme offers both grandeur and grace in equal measure.

Dr. Ang, a multiple award-winning performer and educator, brings a profound emotional depth to the concert. With international recognition such as the prestigious “Ordine della Stella D’Italia” and accolades from the Berliner International Music Competition and BOH Cameronian Arts Awards, her interpretation of works by Verdi, Massenet, Dvořák, Strauss, and others promises an unforgettable experience for classical music lovers.

Three movements, one emotional arc

The programme begins with First Movement: Fate, showcasing the idealism and uncertainties of youth, highlighted by Verdi’s La forza del destino. It transitions into Second Movement: Self Reflection, representing the maturing years of personal and artistic growth, with moving pieces by Massenet, Robert Stolz, and Dvořák.

The final Third Movement: Acceptance closes the concert with works that celebrate transformation and inner peace. This includes Richard Strauss’ emotionally resonant Vier Letzte Lieder, a perfect conclusion to the narrative journey.

While Music Play Date is free and open to all, A Whisper of Soul is a ticketed event with prices ranging from RM68 to RM150. Concession pricing is available to make the concert more accessible. Tickets can be purchased online through www.cloudjoi.com, and patrons are encouraged to book early to secure seats for what is expected to be a moving and inspirational performance.