The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac) is wrapping up 2024 with a special two-day event titled “Laugh, Love, Give with Harith & Friends” from December 14th to 15th at Pentas 1 of klpac.
While the holiday season is a time for celebration, it is also a time for giving. This year, arts enthusiasts can do both while helping klpac celebrate its 20th anniversary through a benefit performance in support of Malaysia’s beloved arts hub.
Headlining the fundraiser is comedy legend Harith Iskander, widely regarded as the Godfather of Stand-Up Comedy in Malaysia. As he prepares to mark 35 years in the industry next year, Harith is known not only for his world-class comedic talent but also for his commitment to humanitarian efforts and giving back to the arts.
Harith shared, “I began my stand-up journey performing every month for five years at The Actors Studio’s first theatre beneath Dataran Merdeka. Hats off to Joe and Faridah for their relentless dedication in sustaining multiple spaces for the arts over the past 30 years. The country needs an institution like klpac, and they shouldn’t have to do it alone. I’m thrilled to be returning to klpac’s Pentas 1 after a decade.”
The performance will also feature the YCA Chorus, conducted by Susanna Saw, bringing festive cheer with a selection of popular Christmas carols. Additionally, audiences will be mesmerized by a Balinese dance, Janger, performed by Zhafir Muzani and the Young KL Singers (YKLS), conducted by Mak Chi Hoe.
Many may not know that YKLS was co-founded by The Actors Studio Academy, led by Joe, Faridah, myself, and Chow Wei Heng. klpac has been like a second home for us, where we’ve performed many times, and it continues to be a key platform for young Malaysian talent.
The event will also showcase Clinton Jerome Chua, an exceptional singer known for his impressive vocal range. Clinton, a rising star in the Malaysian music scene, has had the opportunity to sing for Ariana Grande, be mentored by Yuna, and share the stage with Shila Amzah in “I Can See Your Voice Malaysia.” He will soon release his debut EP. Also joining the lineup are up-and-coming artists from TUTAS Conservatory, offering a surprise musical feature directed by Christopher Ling, along with a lively dance number by Dancesteps Studio, led by Shirena Hamzah and Clara Lim.
Dato’ Dr. Faridah Merican, Co-Founder and Executive Producer of klpac, expressed, “It’s truly heartwarming to see nearly 80 artists and arts workers coming together for this fundraiser. We’ve curated a fantastic programme filled with comedy, music, and dance. In light of recent global events, it’s not enough to simply voice support — we must turn it into positive action. We invite all those who have been a part of klpac’s story to come and show their support.”
All proceeds from “Laugh, Love, Give with Harith & Friends” will go toward klpac’s 20th Anniversary fundraising efforts. The non-profit arts centre has seen a 40% drop in sponsorship since the pandemic, with many funders now focusing on short-term programmes and productions.
Despite financial challenges, klpac has regained its pre-pandemic visitor numbers, welcoming 80,000 attendees in 2023 across 130 shows, with an average occupancy rate of 80%. Since the pandemic, the centre has created 4,986 job opportunities and hosted over 250 schools and 4,000 students nationwide. This year, klpac has increased its efforts to make the arts more accessible with klpac Connect, which includes programmes for families, schoolchildren, and other communities.
Tickets for “Laugh, Love, Give with Harith & Friends” range from RM 80 to RM 500 and are available for purchase online at www.cloudjoi.com. klpac is also running a fundraising initiative called Save Your Seat, where the public can adopt a seat in exchange for recognition. Seats can be adopted via www.cloudjoi.com.
– Humans of Kuala Lumpur
