A guide to stage shows and musicals in the Klang Valley this holiday season


  • Arts
  • Wednesday, 11 Dec 2024

The festive mood in the Klang Valley is about to get a major boost with a smorgasbord of theatre, arts, comedy, music, and ballet events to keep you jolly. Photo: Bloomberg

As the Christmas season hits its stride, the Klang Valley offers a delightful array of festive theatre events to enchant audiences.

From the grand spectacle of The Nutcracker in downtown Kuala Lumpur to heartwarming fundraising performances by KLPac and The Philharmonic Society of Selangor, there’s no shortage of options for a memorable night out with loved ones and friends.

Here are some delightful picks for the season:

'The Nutcracker' is poised to enchant ballet lovers this Friday at the Plenary Hall, KLCC, with its timeless blend of grace, storytelling, and holiday magic. Photo:  Crescendo Asia'The Nutcracker' is poised to enchant ballet lovers this Friday at the Plenary Hall, KLCC, with its timeless blend of grace, storytelling, and holiday magic. Photo: Crescendo Asia

'THE NUTCRACKER'
Venue: Plenary Hall, KLCC, Kuala Lumpur
Date: Dec 13

Fresh off a sold-out performance in Singapore, the dazzling spectacle of The Nutcracker pirouettes its way into Kuala Lumpur this Friday.

More than just a ballet, this is Christmas magic served with a dash of grace and a sprinkle of stardust.

The Nutcracker, with its tale of a brave prince, kind-hearted Masha, and their triumph over the Mouse King, is a big stage performance bound to thrill the whole family.

Brought to the region by Crescendo Asia and featuring the talent of the Saint Petersburg National Ballet Theatre, this holiday classic promises an unforgettable evening.

'A CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST: THE KLPAC STRING ORCHESTRA'
Venue: Pentas 2, KLPac
Date: Dec 13-15

‘Tis the season of joy and festivities, and what better way to get into a Christmas-y mood than at the KLPac String Orchestra’s Christmas concert? Act fast – tickets are selling quickly!

Under the baton of music director and resident conductor Andrea Sim, the orchestra presents A Christmas Playlist, a family-friendly programme to wrap up its season.

With Pentas 2 ready with a festive glow, you can expect a merry evening packed with a mix of seasonal staples, from traditional carols to modern favourites, including O Holy Night, All I Want For Christmas Is You, Let It Snow, Nutcracker Suite and more.

'West Side Story' is set to thrill musical fans this weekend at the main hall of PJPAC, bringing its iconic blend of passion, drama, and unforgettable tunes to life on stage. Photo: Bentley Music Academy 'West Side Story' is set to thrill musical fans this weekend at the main hall of PJPAC, bringing its iconic blend of passion, drama, and unforgettable tunes to life on stage. Photo: Bentley Music Academy

'WEST SIDE STORY'
Venue: Stage 1, PJPAC, Petaling Jaya
Date: Dec 14 and 15

While some households might make it a Christmas tradition to watch the classic West Side Story movie (1961) every year, this holiday season, you can take it up a notch by experiencing the magic live on stage at PJPAC.

West Side Story is set to hit the main hall at PJPAC this weekend.

This production marks the fourth international music theatre collaboration hosted by Bentley Music Academy.

Directed by Jo Kukathas, conducted by Kevin Field, and with choreography by Emma Goding, it’s a semi-staged amateur presentation that promises to deliver both charm and talent.

The Young Choral Academy Chorus, led by Susanna Saw, is set to bring on the festive mood at the 'Laugh, Love, Give With Harith and Friends' fundraiser at KLPac this weekend. Photo: Eric Chow The Young Choral Academy Chorus, led by Susanna Saw, is set to bring on the festive mood at the 'Laugh, Love, Give With Harith and Friends' fundraiser at KLPac this weekend. Photo: Eric Chow

'LAUGH, LOVE, GIVE WITH HARITH & FRIENDS'
Venue: Pentas 1, KLPac
Date: Dec 14 and 15

KLPac is readying up the festive fun with Laugh, Love, Give with Harith & Friends, a two-night fundraising extravaganza on this weekend at Pentas 1.

Comedian Harith Iskander is ready to light up the stage like a Christmas tree, headlining a fundraiser that unites seasoned theatre veterans and rising stars in support of KLPac's cause. Adding a fresh burst of energy, the Young Choral Academy Chorus, conducted by Susanna Saw, will fill the air with festive cheer through beloved Christmas carols sure to bring smiles all around.

Audiences are in for a special treat with a performance of the Balinese Janger dance by Zhafir Muzani, accompanied by the harmonious Young KL Singers under the baton of Mak Chi Hoe.

This isn’t just any show – it’s a heartfelt prelude to KLPac’s 20th anniversary celebrations in 2025, combining art, laughter, and generosity under one roof.

Singer Bihzhu is set to grace the stage at 'A Gala For Hope' on Dec 17 in Kuala Lumpur, bringing her soulful voice and heartfelt artistry to this meaningful evening of music, comedy and charity. Photo: Robin Wong Singer Bihzhu is set to grace the stage at 'A Gala For Hope' on Dec 17 in Kuala Lumpur, bringing her soulful voice and heartfelt artistry to this meaningful evening of music, comedy and charity. Photo: Robin Wong

'A GALA OF HOPE'
Venue: The Platform, Menara Ken, TTDI, KL
Date: Dec 17

This Christmas season, laughter and music come together for a cause with A Gala For Hope, a charity event at Menara Ken's theatre space.

Dedicated to raising funds for families in Gaza affected by the ongoing conflict, the show - on a rare Tuesday night get-together of local talents - will channel proceeds to trusted charities providing emergency aid, medical supplies, and shelter for displaced communities.

The star-studded cast features comedy heavyweights Douglas Lim, Harith Iskander, Mad Sabah, Rizal van Geyzel, Shamaine Othman, and Hindra Bose.

Singers Bihzhu, Elvira Arul, and Murty bring their soulful and inspiring repertoire to the live music line-up, adding depth and heart to an already tasty comedy programme.

Hosted by TV personality Terence Dass, A Gala For Hope promises a heartfelt night of entertainment that aims to make a real difference.

'JOYFUL, JOYFUL! CHRISTMAS: ELVIRA ARUL AND THE LAST NOTES'
Venue: BoboKL, Bangsar, KL
Date: Dec 20-22

Christmas at BoboKL isn’t complete without the incomparable soul singer Elvira Arul, and this year she’s back with Joyful, Joyful! Christmas, a live showcase series.

Teaming up with The Last Notes, Elvira is ready to turn up the holiday spirit with powerhouse vocals and irresistible grooves that’ll have you singing along and dancing in your seat.

Put this electrifying night of music and merriment on your year-end calendar - because with December’s weather being all drizzle, no sizzle, no one brings the festive heat quite like Elvira!

'HOLLY JOLLY HOLIDAYS': THE PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY OF SELANGOR
Venue: Pentas 1, KLPac
Date: Dec 20-22

Looking to wrap up the year with joy and purpose? Join The Philharmonic Society of Selangor for Holly Jolly Holidays, a weekend of music, cheer, and giving back.

The first two performances support the National Autism Society of Malaysia (Nasom), with a portion of ticket sales directly benefiting the organisation. Adding to the magic, the concert opens with a heartfelt performance by the Nasom Maestros choir, showcasing the power of inclusion through music.

Expect a vibrant reimagining of holiday classics, delivered by an impressive 70-member choir under the baton of Koh Tian Yi, a lively band, and the dynamic Sayang Dancers with choreography by Farah Sulaiman. It’s set to be heartwarming celebration that blends festive spirit with meaningful impact.

'AFTERNOON JAZZ: SWING AND JAZZY CHRISTMAS'
Venue: Oriental Art and Cultural Center (OACA), Kuala Lumpur
Date: Dec 22

Don't like late nights? Don't worry, here's a gig for you. Get ready to swing into the season with the WVC jazz ensemble.

As part of the Afternoon Jazz Series, music lovers can kick back and indulge in a setlist of jazzy and waltz-y Christmas classics – each one accompanied by its own fascinating backstory.

Led by local jazz pianist/composer Tay Cher Siang and featuring special guests, this series blends storytelling with the irresistible charm of jazz improvisation, proving that the holiday spirit is best served with a little rhythm and a lot of soul.

The KL Madrigal Singers and Players, under the baton of Scott Woo, are ready to dazzle with their 'Candlelight Christmas Eve' performance in KL - proof that holiday magic shines brightest by candlelight. Photo: HandoutThe KL Madrigal Singers and Players, under the baton of Scott Woo, are ready to dazzle with their 'Candlelight Christmas Eve' performance in KL - proof that holiday magic shines brightest by candlelight. Photo: Handout

'CANDLELIGHT CHRISTMAS EVE: THE KL MADRIGAL SINGERS AND PLAYERS'
Venue: BoboKL, Bangsar, KL
Date: Dec 24

Christmas Eve, soft lights, and a club vibe? Why not? Head to BoboKL for a candlelit celebration with the KL Madrigal Singers and Players, led by Scott Woo as director and tenor. Joining him are Darrel Chan as countertenor and pianist, Sharlene Rani as soprano, William Kow as baritone, and a line-up of exceptional talents ready to delight.

The evening promises more than your standard yuletide fare. Expect timeless carols paired with masterworks by Bach and Poulenc, plus a showcase of musical skill with "4-hands piano duets" – two players, one piano, pure magic – and the intricate beauty of motets.

Candlelight Christmas Eve is set up to be an evening of classical harmonies, seasonal warmth, and enough musical brilliance to make even Scrooge crack a smile.

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Christmas , season , fundraising , carols , music , classical , jazz

   

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