Getting a cultural makeover
In Melaka, the old Cathay Cinema transforms into a bangsawan theatre.
THE grand reopening of Cathay Cinema, now known as Panggung Bangsawan Melaka (or Melaka Nobility Theatre) on Jalan Munshi Abdullah, will serve as a vibrant stage celebrating the rich arts and culture representing the multiracial heritage of Malay, Peranakan Chinese, and Eurasian-portuguese communities in the historic state.
Bangsawan, deeply rooted in Malay culture, encompasses theatrical opera stage performances that vividly depict the lives and stories of Malay nobility and royalty.
For diverse theatre programming, Melaka’s Chief Minister, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, announced that the state government, in collaboration with the Melaka Corporation (Mcorp), has forged partnerships with 10 production houses.
Together, they will curate an array of theatre shows, cultural events, and traditional/contemporary arts performances throughout Visit Melaka Year 2024.
“Panggung Bangsawan Melaka is not only a platform for exponents of performing arts, but also as a new tourism product to attract more visitors in conjunction with Visit Melaka,” said Ab Rauf.
“Various performances have been listed according to the schedule throughout this year, including theatre related to the history of Melaka, and entertainment in the form of musicals, suitable for audiences of all ages,” he added.
He said this after completing the recent launch of the Panggung Bangsawan Melaka which was also attended by the State Tourism, Heritage, Art and Culture exco Datuk Abdul Razak Abdul Rahman.
Ab Rauf emphasised that the state government is actively seeking support from various entities such as federal government agencies, state governments, local authorities, private companies, and individuals to revitalise the centuries-old Bangsawan genre.
He urged them to consider sponsoring and collaborating with reputable production houses to breathe new life into this cultural gem.
In the interim, Ab Rauf revealed that the state government is finding new ways to draw visitors (locals and tourists) to the Panggung Bangsawan Melaka. This includes enhancing transportation options, such as utilising ferry boats provided by the Melaka River Cruise at the stage jetty, as well as incorporating trishaws.
“We aim for the operations of Panggung Bangsawan Melaka to generate positive economic impacts for other tourism operators within the state,” he said.
The theatre boasts a capacity of up to 392 individuals per performance, offering modern amenities for a comfortable experience. Equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including air conditioning, advanced technical equipment, a sophisticated audio system, and cuttingedge lighting, it ensures top-notch production quality.
Attendees, primarily cinema enthusiasts, can also indulge in the picturesque views along the banks of the Melaka River before enjoying stage performances at Panggung Bangsawan Melaka. Additionally, they have the option to unwind at bistros designed with both modern and traditional aesthetics.
Moreover, a variety of handicraft products and souvenirs will be made available at the theatre’s lobby, providing visitors with opportunities to take home lasting mementos of their experience.