Right after I witnessed the launch of The Shore Shopping Gallery, I hopped over to Melaka Alive at Dataran Pahlawan.
Not visible from the main road, this man-made area, stage and constructed ship host a venue specially for local plays.
The aim of the show was to depict the rich history of ancient Melaka but in a interesting manner via voices, dance, clever use of light rays and in full regality of colourful costumes.
For RM35 (adult) and RM20 (kid), you will be entertained with a full 45 minutes theatre play complete with music, decent enough backdrops, clear dictation from the main actor and actress (well at least it was for the one that I watched), music and colourful lights.
If you sit at the front, it also involves a refreshing spray of water several times during the show.
Sounds exciting?
Well, buy your tickets and support these local performers!
I could feel genuine enthusiasm in their performance and they are truly above average (don’t expect Mamma Mia or Puteri Gunung Ledang standards please) in executing their role.
All in all, it is an activity suitable for those who is curious about our local history, which includes both locals and foreigners.
I would recommend it as a family past time, for the young would certainly be intrigued for a good 45 minutes. At the end of the play, a magician showed a few tricks and a few lucky ones from the crowd would be called up to participate.
Melaka Alive currently offers 1 show; Winds of Melaka.
The show is performed nightly for about 45 minutes.
Synopsis of Winds of Melaka :
Set on board a ship inspired stage, the tale of Panglima Awang is brought to life in a play, centred on his life and the invasion of the Portuguese. Combining carefully studied historical facts, live theatre, and the traditional Malay dance with theme park know-how, the play will show the importance of Melaka in Asian trade as well as the invasion of the city.
I forgot to snap a picture but let me attempt to visualize the sitting area for you.
Imagine tiers of benches in an open space with a roof. The unforgiving Melaka heat is dissipated by a gentle breeze. No doubt it would be unbearable in the afternoons but since the show begins daily at 7.30 pm and 9.00 pm, the weather won’t be an issue (unless it rains of course).
I felt that it is quite comfortable for a short performance as the seating arrangements are just plain benches with no back to lean on.
The sound system was adequate to carry the voices til the back of the last row from stage.
All in all, the play refreshes the mind of our local history and done in way less painful than picking up a history book.
More info:
Venue: Melaka Alive, Jalan Parameswara, Bandar Hilir, Melaka, Malaysia.
TICKET: http://www.melakaalive.com.my/ticket.php
Adult: MyKad RM35, no MyKad RM45
Child: 4 – 12 years RM20 (MyKad), RM28 (no MyKad)
Child 3 years old and below or 90 cm below is free.
More info:
http://www.melakaalive.com.my/
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Official-Melaka-Alive/