On the world stage
EVER since learning about the World Championship of Performing Arts four years ago, Aloysius Cornelius Susek, 28, has been dreaming of representing Malaysia in the competition. This year, he’s finally been selected to go to the United States to compete against other international performers.
Although a lawyer by profession, Susek has been passionate about singing since he started performing in a church choir when he was 10 years old. And it is in the singing category (called Senior Vocal category) that Susek will be participating.
“I have been taking part in the Malaysia-level (championship of performing arts) for the past four years. This is the first time I am representing Malaysia in the world championship,” he said.
This year, the competition will be held in Long Beach, California, the United States; it is happening now until July 9. Some 66 countries are taking part, hoping to walk away with gold, silver and bronze medals, as well as Industry Awards and Grand Champion Performer of the World Award.
Malaysia has been participating in this competition annually, bagging a number of awards. In 2014, Malaysia won 15 gold medals, including four in the group dance category and one in solo dance category.
Originally from Miri, Sarawak, Susek – who is now based in Petaling Jaya – has been hard at work as a litigator and also going for vocal training every day with a coach.
“That is my routine because I want to win the Grand Champion award for Malaysia,” Susek said.
He will be taking part in the solo category for vocal (senior) where he will be tested in the singing styles of Broadway, gospel, opera, soul and world music.
“Opera is the hardest but it is also my favourite.”
Besides hoping to win medals and awards for Malaysia, Susek hopes to learn more about performing at the championship as there will be a bootcamp conducted by world-class trainers. But, above all, he just wants to make
Malaysia proud.