This Mid-Autumn, Kwai Chai Hong is bringing the magic of Chinese Opera to life with their new art installation, “Drama Queen 月映戲伶.” This vibrant celebration aims to revive and showcase the beauty of Chinese Opera, an art form with a rich history dating back to the Three Kingdoms Period (A.D. 220–265).
Once a thriving tradition in Malaysia with around 180 active troupes in the 1950s-1980s, Chinese Opera is now dwindling, with fewer than ten troupes remaining. Kwai Chai Hong is determined to reignite interest in this cultural gem with their latest project.
Zeen Chang, Managing Partner of Bai Chuan Management, explains, “Chinese Opera is a cultural treasure we must preserve. With ‘Drama Queen 月映戲伶,’ we hope to spark curiosity and join the #LongLiveChineseOpera movement.”
The installation is a collaboration with local artist Tan Sher Lynn and Creative Technologist from FABU, supported by Budget 2024 and facilitated by Think City and the Ministry of Finance as part of the Kreatif KL Festival. It blends traditional Chinese Opera with modern digital art to create an immersive experience.
Kwai Chai Hong, in collaboration with Think City, and FABU, welcomes Cantonese Chinese Opera troupe, Kam Sin Kiew Art Crew, led by Grand Master & Doyenne, Kam Sin Kiew for its “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” installation. One of the last remaining Cantonese Chinese Opera troupes, Kam Sin Kiew Art Crew, led by Grand Master & Doyenne, Kam Sin Kiew, performing the scene “Fragrant Sacrifice 香夭” from the epic Chinese Opera “Princess Flower 帝女花”.
A Modern Take on Tradition
As you enter, you’ll be welcomed by glowing “Flower Faces” (花臉) leading to a tunnel inspired by a Chinese Opera doyenne’s headdress. The installation features illuminated arches and interactive elements, including a shadow play where you can become part of the artwork.
Sher Lynn’s “Dancing Sleeves” display captures the grace of Chinese Opera through flowing sleeves enhanced with Augmented Reality, representing the five main roles of the art form: Sheng (male), Dan (female), Jing (painted face), Mo (older men), and Chou (clown).
Photo by Justwanyu 
Photo by Tianchad 
Photo by Faizallens
Celebrating Culture and Innovation
Chinese Opera is a vital link to Chinese culture, especially in Downtown KL. Dato’ Hamdan Abdul Majeed of Think City says, “We’re excited to support Kwai Chai Hong in celebrating and revitalizing our heritage. The Kreatif KL Festival, featuring ‘Drama Queen 月映戲伶,’ enriches our city’s cultural scene.”
Additionally, Kwai Chai Hong will participate in the Augmented Reality Festival Kuala Lumpur from 30 August to 30 November 2024. Their murals, including “Little Girl Peering Out of the Window” and “Cabaret Girl by the Window,” will come to life with AR technology.
Little Girl Peering Out of the Window Cabaret Girl by the Window
Kwai Chai Hong is open daily from 9AM to midnight, and “Drama Queen 月映戲伶” runs from 16 August to 22 September 2024. Don’t miss the chance to see the Kam Sin Kiew Art Crew perform a scene from the epic Chinese Opera “Princess Flower 帝女花” on 24 and 31 August 2024.
Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival at Kwai Chai Hong, explore the local eateries, and enjoy this unique cultural experience! For more details, visit Kwai Chai Hong’s website, Facebook, or Instagram.
