KUALA LUMPUR: The 15th George Town Festival (GTF) returns from July 19 to 28 with the theme Here And Now.
It invites everyone to embark on a journey of reflection and reimagination.
Through over 70 diverse and innovative programmes, the festival seeks to uplift communities and engage, educate and entertain audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Festival goers will be invited to explore new perspectives, challenge assumptions and experience the transformative power of the arts.
GTF 2024 features acts from Indonesia, Thailand, Italy, Taiwan, Spain, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Colombia, Singapore, Japan, the United States and Vietnam.
Its lineup encompasses performing arts, visual arts, family fun and community engagement.
Among the attractions this year include:
The Double Bill Of Jingju Magic by the GuoGuang Opera Company (Taiwan);
Waktu Batu, Rumah Yang Terbakar by Teater Garasi (Indonesia);
Alle Armi by Hombre Collettivo (Italy), a groundbreaking performance using toys to highlight the pressing issue of the international arms market;
House Of Mask And Mime (Thailand), a humorous performance suitable for audiences of all ages;
Switchblade Op: A World In The City (Malaysia), which marks the return of Penang-born choreographer Loke Soh Kim.
GTF 2024 will also spotlight Malaysian acts including Theatresauce, Moka Mocha Ink, Dabble Dabble Jer Collective, Patblas Creative, Chacko Vadaketh, Ng Siu Yee and Steve Goh.
Through projects by three artists, Miniature Public Art invites festival-goers to find small-scale installations nestled in hidden corners.
Alongside Malaysian artists Novia Shin and Low Chee Peng, artist Isaac Cordal will refigure the city's spaces with his miniature people.
Another attraction is the installation Preserving Memories (Liquid Mirror) by Kaito Sakuma.
The Liquid Mirror is an acoustic sculpture that is both a reflective surface and a speaker.
Placed at 10 different locations, these mirrors will invite viewers to reflect on the present moment, evoking their cherished memories.
The festival's artistic director Ling Tang said: "Arts festivals are more than just events, they serve as a lens through which to view the world, bringing people together to celebrate our shared humanity.
"GTF 2024 will demonstrate how the arts are not simply entertainment, but a means of sparking social change."
GTF 2024 is a project by George Town World Heritage Incorporated (GTWHI), organised by Kerson Media Global and endorsed by the Penang State Government.
It is supported by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP), Penang Global Tourism (PGT) and National Department for Culture and Arts Penang.
Visit www.georgetownfestival.com for the latest updates.