The arts have always been at the heart of cultural expression and theatre is an integral part of it – from The Istana Budaya & KLPAC to tiny black boxes above shophouses. However, in Malaysia, theatre spaces face an ongoing battle for survival. Limited funding and lack of governmental support means that many theatre groups and companies struggle to sustain themselves.

Despite all that, theatre has persisted. The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre, or KLPAC, is celebrating their 20th birthday. In light of that, we discuss the evolution of and challenges faced by Malaysian theatre spaces, with Ian Chow, Group General Manager, Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC).

Image Credit: KLPAC