PENANG Youth Development Corporation’s (PYDC) inaugural programme, “Let’s Play: Youth in Drama Course,” concluded with resounding success after a two-month training period, aimed at nurturing theatrical talents among the youth.
PYDC general manager Dr Gwee Sai Ling expressed her delight at the programme’s impressive start, with 66 enthusiastic participants registering for the course.
She thanked their collaborative partners, including Triple-I Production House, MyPenang Creative, and the dedicated drama coaches, whose support was instrumental in achieving this success.
“’Youth In Drama’ is our initiative focused on unearthing new talents in the realm of theatrical plays.
“As we are all aware, the performing arts is more than just a hobby, it is also a growing industry and a form of cultural heritage that must be upheld,” Dr Gwee said in her speech during the “Let’s Play: Youth Drama Graduation Showcase 2023” at Bagan Jermal Youth Centre on July 23.
She reaffirmed PYDC’s commitment to developing the youth holistically in many fields, evident through the organisation of multiple successful programmes over the years.
The drama course, which commenced on May 14 and concluded on July 16, was conducted bilingually in Malay+English and Mandarin, at selected venues such as Bagan Jermal Youth Centre, Balik Pulau Youth Centre, and UiTM Permatang Pauh.
Throughout the course, participants received training in fundamental skills, including voice projection, emotional expression, and body language.
Looking ahead, Dr Gwee expressed hope that the young graduates would utilise the skills acquired during the course to further explore their potential and seize opportunities in the field.
Soon Lip Chee, the state caretaker exco for Youth and Sports, highlighted that the state government’s unwavering commitment to comprehensive development, in alignment with the Penang 2030 vision – “A Family-Focused Green and Smart State That Inspires the Nation.”
“We can see many groups in Penang, mostly run by the youth, that advocate the creative arts.
“Creative arts is a growing industry which becomes a magnet for tourism in Penang.
“Realising this potential, I believe there is a necessity to organise initiatives to unearth more talents within the youth in the field of creative arts,” Soon said.
He encouraged the young participants to continue their artistic pursuits, serving as a source of inspiration to others.
Pix courtesy of PYDC