Humans are the stewards of Mother Earth: every leaf, every branch, every stream, every root, is our responsibility. We must, therefore, hold ourselves accountable for a better future.
These green issues grow deep within the heart of “Rhymba The Musical”, a new production celebrating Malaysia’s beautifully diverse flora and fauna.
This is the first original musical for PAN Productions, who are known in the local performing arts scene for their productions of international musicals such as “The Producers”, “Into the Woods” and “Merrily We Roll Along”.
“PAN turned 14 this year, so my partners Alizakri Alias, Peter Ong and I decided perhaps it was time for us to explore further, other than doing international repertory work. We believe Malaysians have talent. ‘Rhymba’ is created by Malaysians for the world,” Ng told FMT Lifestyle.
The show tells of Tama, a young orangutan who dreams of becoming the new caretaker of the once-wondrous forest Rhymba. After their homes and lives are destroyed by wanton clearing and ruthless poaching, Rhymba’s animals seek a solution, even as their Elders cannot accept that change is necessary.
Tama and his friends thus embark on an adventure to prove he is worthy to be considered as the next caretaker, but soon discover a darker agenda behind everything. Will Tama prevail, and can Rhymba’s animals find their courage and save themselves?
The musical is based on an original idea by Alizakri, inspired by Ng as well as Ong’s wildlife photography. It features choreography by Suhaili Micheline, a script by Ng and Shamaine Othman, and music and lyrics by Raja Farouk and Grace Noona.
According to Shamaine, Rhymba’s story was shaped by real-life issues taking place around the world.
“We were inspired by the ongoing threat to wildlife worldwide and the archaic systems that thrive on greed. ‘Rhymba’ explores themes of loss, change and hope,” she said.
Music-wise, Farouk said to expect influences from a variety of genres including hip-hop, R&B, polka and jazz. “Overall, our tone and colours are cinematically driven. Imagine an ambient sound-bath experience with musical colours,” he said.
Noona added: “We aimed to infuse more electronic sounds into this musical. With an original story and music, we had the freedom to explore various ideas and approaches, creating a vibrant and dynamic canvas.”
Look out for the mood-setting “Let it Stand Tall”, the musical’s stirring opening number, and get ready to snap your fingers during “On Our Way”, an uplifting song that showcases some of the central characters.
”Another piece we are keeping close to our hearts is a ballad written by Grace, which showcases (jazz artiste) Junji Delfino on vocals. We all know how important it is to have a powerful ballad in a musical,” Farouk quipped.
Overall, the cast and crew wish for the show to bring Malaysians together and encourage them to work as one to protect the environment.
“I hope audiences leave feeling hopeful that change is possible if we put our differences aside and unite,” Shamaine concluded.
‘Rhymba The Musical’
Where:
Damansara Performing Arts Centre,
H-01, Empire Damansara,
Jalan PJU 8/8, Damansara Perdana,
47820 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
When:
Oct 16-19 @ 8.30pm
Oct 19 & 20 @ 3pm
Price:
RM178 and RM208
Get your tickets here. Follow Pan Productions on Facebook and Instagram.