Boria by Boria Omara

Why not settle down for an an afternoon of light entertainment, a classic variety show, at penangpac on February 9th? For the third time, Dato’Dr. Faridah Merican, known as the First Lady of Malaysian Theatre, has curated a 90 minute programme showcasing lots of talented local artists. The lineup for this year includes theatre, music, dance, boria and even a piece of Teochew Opera.

Tango by Dr Claus

Faridah is known as the First Lady with good reason. She is most visible as the executive producer and co-founder of The Actors Studio, which drives much of the work that goes on both at penangpac and its Kuala Lumpur equivalent KLPac. But her legacy in theatre and performing arts in Malaysia is much more extensive than that, and dates back six decades. In 1989, Faridah co-founded The Actors Studio with her husband Joe Hasham, and the duo have gone on to have a hand in opening numerous performing arts venues including The Actors Studio in Plaza Putra, Dataran Merdeka, Lot 10 and Bangsar, as well as KLPac and PenangPac. As pioneers in theatre and contemporary dance she has constantly sought to convince Malaysians that the performing arts are vital, necessary and important. Her passion today is undiminished, as you will surely see when she introduces the various acts in this variety show.

Teochew Opera by Teochew Opera & Puppet House

A Date with Faridah is on Sunday February 9th at 3pm at penangpac. Tickets cost RM 15 and can be obtained from the penangpac box office on the 4th floor of Straits Quay, or by calling 04-899 1722 / 2722.