THE Penang Arts Council, through the support of the Penang government, announced a new initiative called O:PEN – A Weekend in Penang, which will see an exciting and inclusive line-up of programmes featuring strong elements that define the state, namely arts, culture and creativity.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin said the programme, which would take place from April 2 to 4 this year, would see a series of online live-streamed events, pre-recorded programmes, and presentations as well as several standard operating procedures (SOP) compliant live events.
“Today, we are excited to unveil O:PEN, a programme which I believe will be a catalyst in driving growth for our creative industries.
“Through this initiative, the PAC and my office aim to promote and provide a platform for the creative talents in Penang to continue producing work, and along the way, to present the three key areas, namely arts, culture and creativity that hold a strong role in driving the state’s economy.
“The success of organising this programme was the result of many creative individuals getting together to contribute their time, effort and talents.
“I find it truly encouraging and inspiring to see so many artists, organisers and supporters, including differently-abled individuals come together to make this plan a success. This clearly shows that unity is key in achieving great things in life,” Yeoh said during the press conference at the Eastern and Oriental Hotel in George Town yesterday.
He also thanked the hotel for being the official venue sponsor for the live events, and further extended his appreciation to other partners, namely Think City, Han Chiang University College of Communication, INTI International College Penang, The Habitat Penang Hill, Penang Hill Corporation, Open Studios Penang, Universiti Sains Malaysian (School of the Arts), Penang State Art Gallery, Penang House of Music, Tropical Spice Garden, China House, Soundmaker Studio, Digital Penang and many others.
PAC chairman Joe Sidek said some of the highlights would include Solos for Spring, Creative Bands Penang mini market, visual arts programmes by Open Studios Penang, Bake It Till You Make it, TEN x TEN, mengHIJAU, the Green Room, Chasing the Tiger, Writers Reading Room, Tanjung Penaga and many others.
“The programme could never have seen a more fitting period than now to happen, and it is a testimony of the resilience of Penang’s creative forces in the face of lockdowns and closures over the past 12 months or so, which has severely impacted the creative economy sector in Penang.
“Be it virtual or face-to-face participation, come and join us this weekend that will be filled with contemporary dances, music and visual arts, as well as literature, creative bands and some of the best of Penang’s foods and hotels, and even a virtual live tour of George Town Unesco Heritage Site on a trishaw.
“The programme is open to everyone across the world, and we are targeting at least 1,000 participants,” Sidek added.
While most of the virtual and live performances can be enjoyed without any charges, Sidek added there are still several events that would include some payment.
Also present during the press conference was Eastern and Oriental Hotel general manager Alison Fraser.
For more information about the programme, please contact Joe Sidek (PAC chairman) at [email protected] or visit https://www.facebook.com/penangartscouncil.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Law Suun Ting