Kwai Chai Hong, a popular heritage back alley in Kuala Lumpur Chinatown, unveiled its latest art installation themed the “Drama Queen”, bringing the grandeur and beauty of traditional Chinese opera to life.
The installation, marking the Chinese Mid-Autim Festival which falls on Sept 17 this year, consists of two artworks “Flower Faces” and “Dancing Sleeves”, showcasing Chinese opera’s aesthetics through the lens of new media.
The installation is the result of a creative collaboration between local artist Tan Sher Lynn from FabU Design Sdn Bhd and Think City.
Tan’s creation lets visitors explore a phygital experience – a blend of physical and digital art showcasing Chinese opera’s aesthetics through the lens of new media, creating an interactive environment for visitors to experience and reflect on this cultural gem in the present day.
“Chinese opera is one of the treasures of our collective cultural heritage, and Kwai Chai Hong is hoping to halt the extinction of this intricate art form by rekindling an interest in this century-old entertainment staple,” said Bai Chuan Management managing partner Zeen Chang in her speech at the media preview at Kwai Chai Hong on Aug 15, 2024.
“The Drama Queen theme draws inspiration from the historical art form of Chinese opera which has enthralled audiences for centuries, with an added touch of Kwai Chai Hong’s DNA,” she said.
Visitors are welcomed by illuminated “Flower Faces” leading to a modern minimalist tunnel structure inspired by a Chinese opera doyenne’s headdress.
This showcase formed by three layers of illuminated metallic arch woven together with red threads invites to get “into the mind of a doyenne” as they are encircled with a ring of shiny gems, mysterious mist, and flashing lights.
Visitors can even create their own shadow play as their silhouettes are cast on the inner mesh layer and become part of the art piece.
The “Dancing Sleeves” showcases the grace and elegance of Chinese opera performers through hand movements and gestures whilst performing in their full costume regalia of the extended sleeves.
The Drama Queen art installation will be at Kwai Chai Hong from Aug 16 to Sept 22, 2024 and is open to the public daily from 9am to 12am.
