Stage is set for new arts streaming service MyPentas

Screengrab of MyPentas, a new digital arts streaming platform. Photo: Tara Sosrowardoyo

MyPentas, a new digital arts streaming platform, is set to fill up gaps in the Malaysian performing arts industry's road to recovery as it slowly opens up with live shows.

Developed by KL-based digital company Twenty30Digital, MyPentas aims to be the “+flix” for the theatre and performing arts community spanning music, comedy, and dance genres with its on-demand content (with no time limit).

“The importance of the performing arts is not lost on us. Digitalising the performing arts scene allows us to bring our technical expertise to the talents, at a time when it means a 'make-or-break' for many, ” says Muralee Pillay, Twenty30Digital’s chief digital officer.

Twenty30Digital is a purpose driven organisation conceptualised to support the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 2030 via digital means.

“MyPentas also uniquely caters to the younger generation and digital natives. This includes up and coming talents whose journey in the industry is likely disrupted, and without the support, they may choose to deprioritise their creative endeavours, ” adds Muralee.

Currently, MyPentas' offers more than 35 on-demand, multi-lingual programmes, including shows from actress/singer-songwriter Daiyan Trisha, comedian Andrew Netto and Malaysian Odissi dancer January Low. Additional content will be announced in the coming weeks.

In keeping things accessible, MyPentas’ digital offerings are divided into free content and paid shows, affordably starting at RM5.

The platform’s revenue-sharing monetisation model guarantees Malaysian artists a sustainable, long-term revenue stream for new original content and an opportunity to showcase their works to a global audience.

Moving forward, Muralee says MyPentas has several ventures and collaborations lined up. MyPentas is also in the process of branching out into live concerts.

These concerts would be streamed in real time, where audiences can enjoy the concert and participate in live chats with the artists from the comfort of their own home.

“We are also looking to produce a talk show regarding the performing arts, where our performers are able to share a little bit more about themselves and their future plans, ” says Muralee.

In these difficult pandemic times, Muralee adds a platform like MyPentas is a positive sign showing that the performing arts industry is slowly turning a corner.

"MyPentas is an opportunity for Malaysians to support the local arts scene, curate our cultural history, create world class creative content and protect the intellectual property of our talents, ” he concludes.