The Perak Society of Performing Arts (PSPA) presented a musical, “Ipoh: Street, Sleek & Funky” in collaboration with the Perak Department for Arts and Culture (JKKN) on Sunday, November 27. Aimed to showcase our very mixed but lovable cultural heritage where various cultures blend in our unique Malaysian style, the musical told the story of friendships formed in the streets of Old Town, the city that tin built.
Held at the auditorium of JKKN, it was attended by Dato’ Nolee Ashilin Mohammed Radzi, the Executive Councillor for Tourism, Arts, Culture, Multimedia and Communications as the guest of honour and a responsive audience of over 200.
The kaleidoscope of song, dance and storytelling was interwoven with the colourful works of muralist Eric Lai and award-winning music by Ipoh-born Lynn Yew Evers. One would especially love their attention to detail, from peddlers carrying their goods on shoulder poles, to the use of a real trishaw, right down to the eating utensils used by the cast.
The performing talents were of all ages and ethnicities. One charming character was the nasi lemak lady, played by Nur Fardinaz bt Fadzil who kept the audience in stitches with her antics.
The night came to a perfect conclusion with the classic Cantonese number, Peng You (Friends).
“My eyes well up with tears when I saw the scene featuring familiar quaint colonial shophouses in which I grew up. The sights and sounds of it all were so nostalgic!” a 68-year-old retired businessman shared with Ipoh Echo.
“This show is dedicated to all friends of PSPA, from sponsors, helpers to cast who come from near and far. We are all volunteers who are here to support the bringing up of performing arts in Perak. And we have wonderful professionals who teach. So if you have children and people who are interested, send them to teachers. PSPA wants to put them on stage!” Datin Rosalina Ooi, the President of PSPA stated. For further details, contact the society at 05 242 7814 or email: pspaipoh@gmail.com. Do swing by their Facebook page at: Perak Society of Performing Arts.
Mei Kuan
