DPAC Spring Festival cancelled, no arty welcome for Year of the Ox

Hands Percussion performing at the DPAC Spring Festival last year. The Chinese New Year arts-centred festival has been scrapped this year. Photo: Filepic

The Damansara Performing Arts Centre (DPAC) in Petaling Jaya will normally be buzzing with rehearsals and festive decorations at this time of the year in preparation for its annual DPAC Spring Festival.

But the DPAC doors will remain shut this Chinese New Year.

The performing arts venue will be closed following the announcement of the movement control order (MCO) being extended till Feb 18.

That leaves DPAC with a blank festive programme this month.

“It’s heartbreaking that our routine in life has been disrupted, ” says Datin Jane Lew Siew Ting, DPAC's founder.

The enforcement of the MCO since Jan 13 has affected the incomes and economy of the performing arts community since recording activities and live streaming are also not allowed in areas under the MCO.

That has effectively made the virtual option for the DPAC Spring Festival a non-starter.

The community-driven festival, in conjunction with the Lunar New Year, usually attracts a sizeable audience with its multidisciplinary offerings spanning dance, jazz music, and cultural performances.

Like a true Chinese New Year open house, the entry to this fun-filled, community affair, launched in 2019, has always been free.

The DPAC Spring Festival has been an arts outreach programme.

“Our Spring Fest has always brought in large crowds, especially first-timers who come to enjoy the shows with their loved ones.

“They always leave with such a positive experience and interest in the local performing arts scene. Plus with the festive spirit, it’s a special time for the whole community, ” says Lew.

“But these are uncertain times, so we have to take things one day at a time," she adds.

At present, there are no programmes listed on DPAC's website.