FESTIVAL-GOERS enjoyed a memorable and sensorial experience this evening at Curtis Crest, The Habitat Penang Hill.
The audience indulged their senses at the one-of-a-kind concert called ‘The Senses’, amid the state’s 130-million-year-old rainforest, 800 metres above sea level.
The first show was the improvisational performance of live soundscape and contemporary dance – ‘Nusantrik’.
‘Nusantrik’ (which is a combination of two Malay words: Nusantara and eksentrik) is aimed at translating the diverse culture and tradition of the Nusantara (Malay Archipelago) into a captivating performance of sound and sight.
It was performed by soundscape duo Kicau-Bilau and performing artistes Wak Kang and Mislina Mustaffa.
Not forgetting the Penang-based ethno-pop duo, Buddha Beat, who enticed the crowd with their unique musical performance, combining bamboo flute, electric guitar, Indian traditional and other electronic musical instruments.
Darmas, a band formed by six talented musicians from Malaysia, also entertained the guests with their creative fusion of traditional Malay rhythms.
Unlike the earlier performances which were more soothing, Darmas heightened the mood of the audience with their powerful blend of percussion music and electric guitars.
Those present were invited to dance along to the upbeat music while maintaining physical distancing and observing the standard operating procedures.
Some also took a walk at the renowned tree top walk (which is the highest viewing point in Penang) to take in the amazing 360-degree panoramic views of Penang island and beyond while enjoying the music.
Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Air Itam assemblyman Joseph Ng, George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI) general manager Dr Ang Ming Chee, Penang Hill Corporation general manager Datuk Cheok Lay Leng, The Habitat Penang Hill managing director Allen Tan and George Town Festival (GTF) director Jack Wong were present at the rainforest concert.
GTF returns for its 12th edition this year. Themed ‘A Festival for Everyone’, it is reimagined and curated as a hybrid festival. The year-end campaigns are ‘Nine Days Eight Exhibitions’ and ‘Nine Days Eight Shows’.
The ‘Nine Days Eight Exhibitions’ campaign has just successfully completed. It was carried out from Nov 20 to 28, where people celebrated arts everywhere, from a cafe to shopping malls, historic buildings and others. The exhibitions showcased works from various genres, ranging from painting and drawing to photography and installation art.
The ‘Nine Days Eight Shows’ campaign is currently ongoing, from Dec 4 to 12. Festival-goers can look forward to outstanding performances, such as wayang kulit, jazz, comedy as well as cultural and contemporary dance.
GTF 2021 is a project by GTWHI and organised by TLM Event.
It is endorsed by the Penang government and fully supported by the Penang Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE), Penang Island City Council (MBPP), and Penang Global Tourism (PGT).
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Chan Kok Kuan
Video by Darwina Mohd Daud