2024 George Town Festival to involve communities

THE George Town Festival (GTF), which is set for July 19 to 28, will be a little different.

Festival director Chin Teo said this year’s edition, themed “Here and Now”, would see the involvement of communities through key community engagement programmes.

“These programmes will involve a collaboration with local arts groups and the transformation of local environments.

“For example, we will have site-specific performances such as Yamsenglah!, Journal of Her House, The Kingdom of Childhood, Journal Creative Market,” she was quoted saying by state publisher Buletin Mutiara.

Penang tourism and creative economy committee chairman Wong Hon Wai (pic) said GTF’s open call for proposals drew 364 applications from 56 countries, while the artist-in-residence open call attracted 87 artists from 29 countries.

“The overwhelming response is evidence of the festival’s reputation as a sought-after destination for international talents and its potential to become one of the greatest arts events in South-East Asia,” Wong said.

It was also reported that the visuals for this year were designed by a multidisciplinary design studio called Putticoop.

Its founder Lian Kian Lek said the company had designed a series of five posters based on iconic landmarks, such as the Penang Bridge and Komtar.

“It is meant to offer a striking and refreshing experience that reflects George Town’s colourful diversity and the festival’s new direction.

“The new brand identity aims to appeal to both the local and global community, transforming GTF into a genuinely festive occasion,” Lian said.

Additionally, a community outreach programme will be brought to the doorsteps of local communities, such as Taman Sri Janggus in Machang Bubok and Bukit Tambun.

This year, the festival is organised by Kerson Media Global Sdn Bhd.

For details, visit www.georgetownfestival.com.