Curtains up: local performing arts highlights in September

September is set to be a month full of exciting performances in Malaysia's performing arts scene. From theatre to dance, there are many events to choose from.

The Secret Drawer is a production by the Asia Ballet Academy, exploring the hidden histories of the fathers of performers Ling Tang and Tiong Wooi. The play is set against the vibrant streets of late-1970s Kuala Lumpur and runs until September 6 at The Studio, Jeffrey Cheah Performing Arts Centre (JCPAC) in Selangor.

Susan tells the story of a woman with two dead husbands, a pen that keeps ending up in the wrong place, and the mystery of her own identity. The three-act play runs until September 13 at Hush the Theatre in Petaling Jaya.

Todak Gundik (Concubine Swordfish) is an adaptation of legends from Sejarah Melayu, reimagined as a contemporary exploration of power, desire, and destiny. The play runs until September 6 at Pentas 2, The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPCA) in Sentul.

One Ping Petal, created by children and teenagers from Big Fish Experimental Theatre, uses seven classic texts to explore growing up, identity, and the real-life experiences of young people today. The production runs from September 4-6 at Big Fish Education in Johor Bahru.

Fork It: One Man's Journey Through Food & Memories is a semi-autobiographical solo performance by writer-performer Gavin Yap. The show traces Yap's life, from his childhood and mixed-race identity to his discovery of acting and eventual career, with each chapter told through memories inspired by a different dish. The performance runs from September 11-13 at The Studio, Jeffrey Cheah Performing Arts Centre in Selangor.