TO mark the 70th anniversary of the Penang Arts Council (PAC), an exciting lineup of concerts, workshops, and community engagement activities has been planned for the community.
Its chairman, Joe Sidek, expressed hope to revive the former glory of the PAC, which was once renowned for its contributions to classical music and opera.
“We would like to thank the state government for their contribution of RM8,000 through the state Tourism and Creative Economy (Petace) office.
“Our desire is to bring arts closer to the public,” Sidek said during a press conference at E&O Hotel today.
One of the event’s highlights is the upcoming concert featuring world-renowned pianist Irina Krasotina on Sept 27, where she will be performing Tchaikovsky’s classic alongside Penang’s very own pianist, Zhang Zhi.
Other activities include the ‘Youth and Community Outreach Programme’ in partnership with the Rotary Club, the Chamber Music Fest collaboration with Wawasan Open University, and various opportunities for partnership and sponsorships.
Tickets for the Tchaikovsky Gala Concert can be obtained via https://t2u.asia/e/34792.
There will be also screenings of performances from the New York Metropolitan Opera.
Meanwhile, Janice Loh, the special assistant to state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, represented Wong at the event.
Loh delivered a speech on his behalf, encouraging everyone to explore the various partnership and sponsorship opportunities available in conjunction with the council’s 70th anniversary.
“Penang has long been recognised as a vibrant cultural hub, where art, music, and creativity thrive.
“Today, we pay tribute to the visionaries who founded the council in 1954, including Mr. J.P. Souter, Datuk Tay Hooi Keat, and Pamela Ong, whose tireless efforts significantly elevated the arts in Penang.
“Their legacy continues to shape the thriving artistic community we celebrate today.
“This anniversary is not just a reflection of our rich history but also a commitment to the future, a future where the arts will continue to grow and flourish, allowing everyone, especially the younger generation, to engage with music, theatre, and the visual arts.
“Under the leadership of Mr Joe Sidek and his dedicated committee, I am confident that the PAC will continue to inspire and create impactful cultural experiences for generations to come,” Loh added.
Sidek also announced that Yayasan Ilham has contributed RM30,000 to PAC.
“Petri Karjalainen, the public image director of the Rotary Club of Penang, highlighted that arts education plays a vital role in fostering creative thinking.
He added that creative thinking can be effectively combined with technology to drive innovation.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Amir Mersyad Omar