Kang Chen winning hearts with his feisty storytelling using a cardboard cow among other props at the cancer awareness programme at a mall in Penang. — CHAN BOON KAI/The Star
FROM the moment five-year-old Saw Kang Chen stepped on stage in muscle-padded green costume with spiked hair and a cardboard cow in tow, a hush fell over spectators at a mall in Penang.
The preschooler melted hearts by displaying charm and confidence beyond his years at the cancer awareness event.
Despite his small frame, Kang Chen delivered a fiery and energetic retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk, slipping confidently into different voices for Jack, the giant and even the cow that came complete with a bell around its neck.
His feisty expressions, thanks to his heavily drawn eyebrows and dramatic gestures, kept the crowd enthralled.
Each time he paused for an effect, the audience held their breath for what was to come next.
Strutting across the stage with his cardboard cow, the boy’s spirited performance earned loud applause and left many impressed by how naturally he commanded attention.
Housewife Choo Chiu Hui, 33, said her son, Kang Chen, enjoyed singing and dancing.
“It was only after joining the preschool centre in Juru last year that teachers discovered his storytelling talent.
“His first storytelling competition at the preschool was last year where he finished fourth. This year he won first prize in the same competition,” she said.
Choo said she and her husband Wilson Saw, 37, a construction company owner, had never pushed Kang Chen to enter competitions.
The couple have another son, who is six years old.
“Kang Chen simply loves the thrill of winning competitions and bringing back the trophies!
“I suppose this is what motivates him to do better in the areas he loves, which are writing, drawing and colouring contests,” said Choo.
She said Kang Chen never practised at home or even watched online videos for his stage debut.
He only rehearsed with his teachers at the preschool, she said.
“He puts effort into everything he sets his mind to.
“When he decided he wanted to perform Jack and the Beanstalk, we worked together to make it special,” she added.
Choo bought the costume online, added grass and leaves for effect, did his make-up and even crafted the beanstalk tower and the golden egg from scratch.
Some of the props, including the cow, were provided by his preschool.
Looking ahead, Kang Chen’s parents are hoping to nurture his creative talents further.
He is set to attend clay art and dancing classes next year, allowing him to explore more forms of self-expression.
“He loves performing and creating; we want to support his imagination and confidence,” Choo said.
Kang Chen’s teacher M. Yamunothiry, who was prompting him from the back of the event hall, described him as a happy and sweet boy who loves school.
“He is always focused, joining every activity with enthusiasm.
“His passion for performing really stands out and he enjoys storytelling so much, especially when he can act out his favourite ‘Giant’ character.
“He puts his whole heart into it, changing his voice, expressions and movements so beautifully,” she said, adding that his confidence was remarkable for someone his age.
Yamunothiry said her pupil loved colouring too and took great care in his work, showing patience and creativity.
