Presented by D Yang Productions, Lao Wang the Musical began as a short 10-minute play and has evolved into a full-length theatrical production. After receiving multiple accolades at the 2019 Short+Sweet Festival, this captivating musical is returning this year with a fresh new look. Directed and curated by Dylan Yeo, the production brings together a diverse team of talented individuals, including experts in music composition, dance, costume design, lighting, and projection technology, to offer a richer and more engaging experience.
The musical will be performed at the Black Box of the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA) in Malaysia from December 5th to 8th, with six exciting shows. Tickets for the event will officially be available for purchase starting in October.
A Journey of Growth in a Technological World
Lao Wang the Musical is set in a futuristic society, where the story follows 15-year-old Lin Guoqing, raised by an AI named “Lao Wang.” As he matures in a world where human relationships and family bonds are fading, Lin embarks on a journey to understand his self-worth and the meaning of his existence. The musical explores themes of alienation, emotional isolation, and the search for connection, offering a poignant reflection on the future of human relationships in an increasingly technological world.
Inspired by Real-Life Observations
The idea for the musical came from director Dylan Yeo’s personal experience in a restaurant, where he observed a family at a table, all glued to their smartphones, with little to no interaction. This scene sparked a series of questions in Yeo’s mind: In a world dominated by technology, will human interactions become obsolete? Will we lose the basic emotional connections that define us? These reflections led to the creation of the original 10-minute piece, which was showcased at the 2019 Short+Sweet Festival. Over the years, the story has evolved, now delving deeper into issues like social class, culture, and ethnic identity, all while exploring the emotional struggles that arise in a tech-driven society.
A Breakthrough in Local Musical Theatre
Malaysian Chinese musicals have immense potential but have long struggled to find platforms for growth. Lao Wang the Musical aims to change this by merging traditional Chinese cultural elements with futuristic technology, creating an innovative theatrical experience. The production juxtaposes the beauty of traditional Chinese values with the cold efficiency of modern technology, offering audiences a unique visual and auditory journey. This blend of the old and the new aims to reconnect viewers with their cultural roots, while encouraging deeper thought on the evolving interplay between tradition and modernity.
Music as the Heart of Emotional Expression
For Dylan Yeo, music is the most powerful form of emotional communication. Through Lao Wang the Musical, he hopes to reignite the audience’s appreciation for the emotive power of music and theatre. Despite the challenges, Yeo is committed to using the simplicity and depth of musical theatre to invite the audience into the story, encouraging them to reflect on their own emotional connections and experience profound resonance through the performance.
Performance Details
Lao Wang the Musical will be staged at the Black Box of the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA) in Malaysia from December 5th to 8th, with six performances in total. Early bird and group discounts will be available. Tickets will go on sale in October. For ticket information and to purchase, visit: CloudJoi.
– Humans of Kuala Lumpur
