In Penang, defunct Chinese opera group is back for another ‘show’

A 'Mang' or ‘lesser dragon’ robe, typically worn by actors or actresses playing the roles of royalty, military generals or top officials. Photo: The Star/Chan Boon Kai

The Culture Colours: Of Rhythm And Rouge exhibition at the Straits and Oriental Museum in George Town is offering visitors a glimpse of the old world of Chinese opera, a community-based art form that has a rich history in Penang and other parts of the country.

The exhibition features hundreds of artefacts from Penang’s Kar Li Cantonese Troupe – from costumes to props and musical instruments – and celebrates the legacy of its late patriarch, Leong Ah Soo, better known as Ah Soo.