What will a pandemic-proof arts festival look like? George Town Festival leads the way

Even with a reduced programme, the George Town Festival 2021 aims to liven the streets in Penang with a series pandemic-proof live events. Photo: The Star/Lim Beng Tatt

Can an on-site arts festival be held in Malaysia during the pandemic? Think dance performances and Insta-worthy art and mapping installations right to musical theatre concerts and a chamber music concert in a century-old chapel. And much more.

The George Town Festival (GTF) might hold the answers. It is slated to return to Penang in July with a week-long programme packed with art, film screenings, theatre and comedy.