KUCHING: The inaugural Kuching Busking Festival, scheduled from today to Sept 17, promises to be a vibrant celebration of talent and culture, with more than 150 buskers set to take centre stage in various iconic locations around the city.
According to a press release issued yesterday, the festival will transform Kuching’s streets into a bustling stage for performers from diverse backgrounds, offering a myriad of captivating acts for visitors and locals alike.
Festival director Mike Lim expressed his excitement, saying, “This is indeed an occasion for us to indulge in savouring the rich cultural mix of which we are so blessed to have.”
“Notable among the participating groups is the Mine Dance Group, a dynamic ensemble comprising over 50 individuals spanning ages three to fifty.
“They will deliver a mesmerising blend of traditional and Indian dances, hip-hop, and Kpop performances, creating a flash-mob-like atmosphere that is sure to leave the audience in awe,” it said.
In addition to the Mine Dance Group, the Kuching Busking Festival will showcase a rich tapestry of performing arts, including the enchanting sounds of Malay Gendang, the captivating allure of Chinese Opera, and the soulful melodies of Sape music.
Attendees can also enjoy country and western tunes, folk melodies, and contemporary dances. An Artists’ Corner will provide a space for creative expressions, while orators and poets will share their works at the Speakers Corner.
One of the festival’s highlights, it added, will be the pantomime performance titled “The Boris Woman,” scheduled for 8 pm on Sept 16 at Plaza Merdeka, the venue sponsor for the festival’s finals and busking events. This theatrical treat promises to be a visual and emotional spectacle.
The buskers will grace the streets between 6.30 pm and 10 pm on Sept 15 and 16, offering spontaneous performances throughout the evenings. The grand finals will culminate in a thrilling showcase at the Atrium, Plaza Merdeka, on Sept 17 at 7.30 pm.
Organised by the Sarawak Handicrafts and Souvenirs Association and supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts, with the Rotary Club of Kuching Unity City as a major sponsor, the Kuching Busking Festival promises to be an unforgettable celebration of talent, culture, and creativity, managed by the Creative Umbrella Co.
It’s an event not to be missed for those seeking an immersion in the vibrant arts and culture of Malaysia.
