THE senior management of the Performing Arts Centre of Penang (penangpac) this evening paid a courtesy call on Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow in Komtar and were well-received by the latter.
Led by penangpac-affiliated The Actors Studio group general manager Ian Chow and penangpac publicity manager Alexander Ooi, the chief minister was briefed on the internal workings of the arts centre, now based in Straits Quay, with special attention given on the state of its finances and motives which have been the driving force behind penangpac despite the various challenges it faces.
Ian explained on the consistent and constant talent generation of which more than 90% of the production staff are local Penangites, the efforts channeled towards building a sustainable ecosystem for the arts through the means of infrastructure and support services, community outreach and content creation throughout the year, everyday for 365 days.
“To us, there’s no low or peak season because everyday is a good season,” said Ian, a remark which drew much approval from the chief minister himself who complimented the former for his positive energy for the Arts.
According to statistics revealed by Ian, penangpac with its mere history of six and a half years, had housed almost 700 shows and events and attracted almost 200,000 people.
A much more detailed report on penangpac would be presented to the chief minister in a week’s time which will contain request for state sponsorship and support to enable penangpac continue with its quest in promoting the arts in the local arena.
Story by Victor Seow
Pix by Alvie Cheng