#SHOWBIZ: Colourful lineup of original shows at Istana Budaya until year end
KUALA LUMPUR: The prestigious stage of Istana Budaya (IB) is set to raise its curtain once again with the IB 2026 programme, featuring a lineup of world-class stage performances.
KUALA LUMPUR: Istana Budaya (IB) is gearing up to host an impressive array of original shows until the end of the year as part of the IB 2026 programme. Deputy Director-General (Operations) Mohd Johari Md Nordin revealed that the revival of IB's Panggung Sari, now Malaysia's National Theatre, aligns with the government's objectives during Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026).
After a brief hiatus for upgrades and enhancements, IB is poised to reopen as a world-class performing arts venue. Johari emphasized that IB is recognized not only for its architectural allure but also for its technical prowess, efficient production management, and ability to support high-value artistic works. This was highlighted during the launch ceremony of the IB 2026 programme at Lambang Sari, officiated by the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot.
Throughout its closure, IB managed to host 14 programs that received positive feedback, partnering with educational institutions like Multimedia University (MMU), Universiti Putra Malaysia, and UCSI University, as well as corporate entities. Building on these accomplishments, IB has been designated by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) to execute five major programs in 2026.
These encompass Nuansa Urban Rohani on August 25, Laman Santai Seni Budaya: Pesona Malaysia on August 28 & 29, NSO with Aubrey Suwito: Pop & Symphony on October 2 & 3, the musical theatre production Pengembaraan Sang Kancil from November 13–15, and additional performances by external companies and productions.
Panggung Sari will further animate the VM2026 festivities by showcasing a series of exceptional performances from external companies and productions, including Beyond Words: L. Shankar & Samuel J. Dass Live In Concert on August 22 and the musical theatre production Mansur & Liu from September 10–13 & 16–20. Other highlights include Konsert Rindu Sumayyah Hijjaz 3 Dekad on October 16 & 17, the Royal Bangsawan theatre production Beting Beras Basah II: Hikayat Dewa Mahkota on October 30–31 & November 1, and Four Generations In One House on November 5–7.
The lineup also features the 35th Malaysia Film Festival on November 21, Magnum Opus M. Nasir: Dekad Ke-5 in December, RUMI 819: Souls Across Civilisations – A Malaysia-Iran Cultural Celebration on December 11–13, and the theatre production Legenda Puteri Santubong on December 18–20.
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