The cast of 'The Best Nyonya' (from left) Sonia Lee, Kimberly Chan, Wee Shyre May, Neena Shu, and Sophie Budden. The musical is a production of Melaka-based theatre company Krate. Photo: Jevin Kumar
Don your finest Peranakan traditional wear for The Best Nyonya, an unforgettable musical experience where you don’t just watch the story unfold – you become a part of it.
An original production by Melaka-based theatre company Krate in collaboration with Nyonya Palazzo, the show will be staged at Georgetown Mansion in George Town, Penang from May 3-30.
“This marks Krate’s first-ever performance in Penang, and we are thrilled to share this experience in a city filled with similar culture and heritage,” says Wee Shyre May, Krate founder and director of The Best Nyonya.
“Penang truly feels like home to this production – it shares so much cultural DNA with the world we’re portraying on stage. To bring this production to Penang, in such an iconic and historically rich venue, feels like a full-circle moment for us,” she adds.
Krate will be presenting 23 shows in George Town next month.
Old school charm
Inspired by the rich, layered traditions of the Peranakan community, especially the practice of arranged marriages facilitated by a matchmaker, The Best Nyonya tells the heartwarming story of 17-year-old Neo Lin as she strives to become “The Best Nyonya”.
“I was fascinated by the tensions that arise between personal choice and societal expectations. At its core, this show explores themes that are universally relatable: navigating family dynamics, following your heart and being true to yourself.
‘Every show feels unique because the audience becomes part of the performance,’ says Wee. Photo: Jevin Kumar
“While it’s set in a historical context, the emotions and challenges the characters face are very much rooted in the present day. As someone of Peranakan descent, this story is also a tribute to my own heritage – one that I hope sparks both nostalgia and newfound appreciation in others,” says Wee.
Starring Kimberly Chan, Wee Shyre May, Sonia Lee, Neena Shu, and Sophie Budden, the musical comedy drama comes alive with both original music written by Wee and some Malaysian childhood classics, taking audiences on a colourful and hilarious journey touching on marriage, family, and societal expectations.
The show’s original music draws heavily from traditional Peranakan and Malay music, with influences from classics like Nona Nona and Lenggang Kangkung, blending modern theatricality with old school charm.
Collaborative storytelling
Though the cast is small, Wee tells us that what makes the 75-minute show special is that they will also bring in members of the audience to play little meaningful roles.
“It’s collaborative storytelling at its finest,” says Wee.
In the show, the actors will engage the audience, responding to their energy and occasionally inviting them to play small roles in the story. Photo: Jevin Kumar
Designed as a fully immersive experience, the main hall of the Georgetown Mansion, will be transformed into a living, breathing stage. The actors will interact with the audience, respond to their energy, and in some moments, even invite them to play small roles that move the story forward.
“Every show feels unique because the audience becomes part of the performance,” she adds.
The performance, which will be staged Thursday to Sunday each week in May, will be presented primarily in English spliced with some Peranakan lingo (English and Chinese subtitles available).
Adding new layers
The Best Nyonya debuted in 2022 in Melaka and was restaged last November (at Panggung Bangsawan Melaka), but according to Wee, there will be some refreshing changes in the upcoming Penang run.
“While the storyline remains true to its original heart, this 2025 version brings new layers. We’ve introduced a brand-new character and a fresh original song, both of which offer deeper insight into the narrative. Most excitingly, this staging is more intimate – we’re capping the audience size to allow for a more personal and interactive experience.
“We’re also collaborating with Nyonya Palazzo to offer guests Peranakan styling (costume, hair, and make-up), kuehs, and professional portrait services. Together, we aim to enhance the cultural immersion, from food to costuming to ambiance. It’s a full-sensory event that’s more than a show,” concludes Wee.
Since its founding in 2017, Krate has staged over 10 productions, helping build a vibrant theatre scene in Melaka.
The Best Nyonya will be staged at Georgetown Mansion in George Town, Penang throughout May. More info here.
