Category: Entertainment

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Ne Zha Finally Arrives in Malaysia! Here’s How to Watch It on Astro

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Get ready, Malaysia! The Chinese animated sensation, Ne Zha is finally coming to our screens! Ne Zha, the first installment, is a fantasy adventure which took the world by storm in 2019, and now, Malaysian viewers can experience the magic. Mark your calendars for 15 March 2025 (Saturday) at 8:30 PM because Ne Zha will be airing on Astro AEC (Channel 306). You can also stream it via Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka.

Ne Zha: A Record-Breaking Animated Masterpiece
Based on the classic Ming Dynasty novel Investiture of the Gods, Ne Zha reimagines the legendary myth of Ne Zha and Ao Bing, the son of the Dragon King. Born under a dark prophecy, Ne Zha is wrongly believed to be a demonic force destined for destruction. But instead of accepting his fate, he fights against destiny in an action-packed journey of courage and self-discovery.

This animated blockbuster shattered box office records, becoming one of China’s highest-grossing films of all time. It was also China’s official entry for the 92nd Academy Awards (Best International Feature Film)—a groundbreaking achievement for Chinese animation!

Stay Tuned for Ne Zha
You won’t want to miss this! Tune in on March 15 (Saturday) at 8:30 PM via:
✔ Astro AEC (Channel 306)
✔ Astro GO
✔ On Demand
✔ sooka

Upgrade Your Entertainment Experience with Astro
Make your streaming effortless with the Astro One package for just RM49.99/month. For an even better experience, upgrade to Astro Fibre 500Mbps + Entertainment package at RM139.99/month and enjoy ultra-fast internet with unlimited entertainment! Visit the My Astro App, astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838 to learn more.

I can’t wait to relive the epic battles and emotional moments of Ne Zha! Will you be watching? Let me know in the comments! 🔥

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Singapore Mediacorp Artistes Zoe Tay, Shaun Chen, and Zhang Ze Tong in Malaysia for Astro’s “Be Joyful. Share the Prosperity” Exclusive Fan Meet to Promote Upcoming Drama “Emerald Hill”

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On 25 January 2025, Zoe Tay, Shaun Chen, and Zhang Ze Tong arrived in Malaysia for the final stop of Astro’s “Be Joyful. Share the Prosperity” 《喜乐乐SHARE丰年》exclusive fan meet before Chinese New Year. The trio also promoted their upcoming drama, Emerald Hill 《小娘惹之翡翠山》, which is set to premiere this March on Astro AEC.

Set in Singapore during the 1950s and 60s, Emerald Hill, is a spin-off of the Mediacorp classic The Little Nyonya, a drama that received widespread acclaim when it originally aired. During a media group interview, Zoe Tay, Shaun Chen, and Zhang Ze Tong were asked if they felt pressure due to the success of the original series. All three denied feeling any pressure, with Zoe Tay expressing gratitude for the original drama’s popularity, as it sparked interest and discussions about the unique Peranakan culture.

This series marks Zoe Tay’s first time playing a character aged 70. She takes on the role of “Liu Xiu Niang,” the matriarch of a Nyonya family. Tay shared that she fully embraced the aging makeup, as she values the depth and substance of the role. She also adjusted her speech delivery to suit the character and emphasized her love for Chinese New Year, saying it’s a time when her family must reunite. “Even though I participate in recording Chinese New Year programs every year, I make it a point to have reunion dinner with my family earlier,” she said.

Shaun Chen, who plays Tay’s eldest son “Zhang Jinhai,” praised Taiwanese actor Hsiu Chieh-kai, who plays his younger brother “Zhang Jinhe,” for his dedication to his role. “It’s great to have him joining the cast. Coming from different countries, we had great exchanges, and the scenes between us three brothers are very engaging!”

Zhang Ze Tong, returning to Malaysia to promote the drama, plays Oon Shu An’s adopted son “Huang Zuye.” He admitted feeling nervous about working with Oon Shu An for the first time, but appreciated her guidance. “When I first collaborated with her, it was as a host. This time, acting alongside her felt intense. For one scene, I had to eat a Nyonya rice dumpling, but I kept messing up. Seeing this, she discussed it with the director, and they eventually found a way to shoot the scene so I didn’t have to eat so many dumplings,” he shared.

Apart from Zoe Tay, Shaun Chen, and Zhang Ze Tong, the fan meet also featured Astro artistes such as Jentzen Lim, Mavis Yap, Nicole Lai, Geraldine Gan, Vicky Tan, Kryston Woon, Ribbon Huang, and Xiao Wei Wei, who performed festive songs “Yi Qi Fa Da Fa Da La” 《一起发达发达啦》 and Astro’s CNY theme song,《SHARE丰年》. Cast members from Astro Originals’ Chinese New Year drama “All The Good Things” 《好事将至》, including Aenie Wong, Tedd Chan, Vivienne Onn, Wilson Lee, Sherlyn Seo, Alvin Wong, Hayden Ong, and Cai Yong Qi, also made appearances to celebrate the festivities with fans.

For more details on Astro’s 2025 Chinese New Year campaign, “Be Joyful. Share the Prosperity”, visit xilele2025.com. Sign up for the Astro One package for just RM49.99/month to enjoy endless on-demand entertainment. For an enhanced streaming experience, upgrade to RM139.99/month and get the Astro Fibre 500Mbps high-speed internet bundled with the Entertainment package. Visit the My Astro App, astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838 to learn more.

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025: A Spectacular Celebration to Welcome the Chinese New Year

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Astro’s flagship Chinese New Year event, the Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025 《Astro喜乐乐SHARE丰年新春跨年派对》, has once again captivated audiences nationwide. Pre-recorded at IJM Rimbayu, this grand celebration drew a crowd of over 10,000 attendees and will premiere on 28 January 2025 (Chinese New Year’s Eve), at 9:30 PM. Viewers can catch the excitement on Astro AEC (Channel 306), Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka, making it the perfect way to ring in the Chinese New Year.

A Stellar Lineup and Exciting Themes
Co-sponsored by IJM Rimbayu and powered by U Mobile as the official communications partner, the event is helmed by returning producers Pei Yong and Jaspers Lai. Hosting this year’s gala is an all-star male lineup featuring Jack Lim, Yann Kong Han, Nicholas Ong, and Darren Chong. Over 60 celebrities, including popular Malaysian artists, influencers, and Hong Kong superstar Bobby Au Yeung, as well as Singaporean comedy king Mark Lee, will take center stage.

The gala’s narrative revolves around a time-traveling detective, portrayed by Jaspers Lai, who opens a time rift, leading audiences on a journey through the Qing Dynasty, Republican Era, 1980s, 1990s, and modern times. The event combines creativity, technology, dance, and music, offering a multi-dimensional experience.

Show Highlights

  • Opening Performance: A vibrant medley of Malaysian-style festive classics featuring Mavis Gan, Freddie Huang, Crystal Ong, and more.
  • Elegant Dance Performances: Traditional cultural dances presented by Weon Kuan, Joey Leong, and others in Graceful Festive Moves.
  • Comedy Extravaganza: Local comedian Lucas joins his idol Mark Lee for a hilarious sketch, exploring parenting challenges with laugh-out-loud antics.
  • Classic Hits Revival: Performers like Jazz Bai Lin, Amy Chan and Kevin Lee deliver a Broadway-style musical titled Golden Melodies of the Ages.
  • Thrilling Circus Acts: Daring performances in Magical Circus Wonders, highlighted by a knife-throwing act by Lai Ming Quan that kept the audience on edge.
  • Tribute to Legends: A nostalgic homage to 1980s and 1990s stars, including Anita Mui, Aaron Kwok, and Leslie Cheung, with appearances by Bobby Au Yeung and other notable actors.
  • Rhythmic Showcase: A high-energy dance and percussion show titled Dynamic Beats Spectacle that brought the house down.

Grand Finale and Fireworks
The evening concludes with a dazzling fireworks display and a joyful celebration alongside all performers, creating unforgettable memories for attendees and viewers alike.

How to Watch and Subscribe
Don’t miss the Astro CNY Countdown Gala 2025 on 28 January 28 at 9:30 PM. Tune in via Astro AEC (Channel 306), Astro GO, On Demand, or sooka. For more information on Astro’s 2025 Chinese New Year campaign, visit xilele2025.com.

Special Subscription Deals

  • Astro One Package: Just RM49.99/month, offering endless entertainment at your fingertips.
  • Astro Fibre Bundle: Upgrade to 500Mbps unlimited internet and the Entertainment package for RM139.99/month.

Subscribe now via My Astro App, astro.com.my, or WhatsApp 03-9543 3838 to enhance your streaming experience.

Entertainment, Lifestyle

Experience the Magic of Ballet Nights Kuala Lumpur – A World-Class Dance Spectacle

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The highly anticipated Ballet Nights Kuala Lumpur is set to dazzle audiences with an exceptional blend of classical ballet, neo-classical, and contemporary dance on 22 & 23 February 2025 in Merdeka Hall, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur. This world-class production will not only feature globally renowned talents but also introduce a rising local star, making it a must-see event for dance enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Sophia Ong: Malaysia’s Young Dance Prodigy
At just 14 years old, Sophia Ong from Selangor has been named the winner of the prestigious Ballet Nights Young Ambassador Program. Selected from a competitive audition of 40 dancers from 19 schools, Sophia impressed the judges with her ability to seamlessly fuse traditional and modern dance elements. A two-time Gold Medal winner at the Asian Grand Prix Kuala Lumpur, she will proudly represent Malaysia on this international stage.

We believe Sophia’s talent and passion will inspire the next generation of dancers, showcasing the remarkable potential of Malaysian artistry,

said Maria Sascha, Director of Artistic Development Southeast Asia for Ballet Nights.

A Star-Studded Lineup
Ballet Nights KL promises an unforgettable performance with an extraordinary cast:

  • Musa Motha (South Africa): Winner of the 2023 Critics’ Circle UK National Dance Award and a star of America’s Got Talent and Britain’s Got Talent.
  • Constance Devernay-Laurence (France): Principal Ballerina of Scottish Ballet and star of Netflix’s upcoming series Etoile.
  • Mara Galeazzi (Italy): Iconic former Principal Ballerina of The Royal Ballet.
  • Jordan James Bridge (Great Britain): Acclaimed choreographer and Critics’ Circle Emerging Artist nominee.
  • Denys Cherevychko (Ukraine): Former Principal of Vienna State Ballet.

Adding to this illustrious cast are performers from New Zealand, Sweden, and the UK, ensuring a diverse and captivating show.

More Than Just Dance
Ballet Nights goes beyond traditional ballet, blending dynamic storytelling and innovative artistry to create an immersive experience. This Kuala Lumpur edition also hints at an exciting collaboration with a globally renowned conservation organization, bringing a unique element of social awareness to the stage.

Ticket Details
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness ballet’s finest performers in Kuala Lumpur.

  • Dates: 22 February 2025 (8:00 PM) & 23 February 2025 (3:00 PM)
  • Venue: Merdeka Hall, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur
  • Tickets: Starting at RM199, available at Ticket2U. CIMB Bank cardholders enjoy 20% off all categories (T&Cs apply).

Prepare to be enchanted by every pirouette, leap, and note as you step into a world where dance transcends entertainment and becomes pure magic.

Ballet Nights Kuala Lumpur is proudly brought to you in partnership with the British Council, British Malaysian Chamber of Commerce, Malaysia British Society, Melbourne Capital Group, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, HOMME, Maguro Media and CIMB Bank.

For more information on Ballet Nights KL, visit www.balletnights.com/malaysia or follow them on Instagram @International Ballet PLT

Entertainment

Kaleidoscope VII: A Global Percussion Experience You Don’t Want to Miss!

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Get ready for a percussion extravaganza like no other! The Kaleidoscope VII: HANDS International Drumming Festival is coming to Zepp Kuala Lumpur on 19 & 20 October 2024, and this is a must-attend event for anyone who appreciates rhythm, culture, and the power of music. Themed “Gendang Sedunia” (Drums of the World), this year’s festival will unite drummers and artists from three different countries, showcasing a mesmerizing blend of rhythms that transcend borders.

Since its inception in 2009, Kaleidoscope has been a platform for world-class percussionists from more than 13 countries to share their vibrant cultural beats. This year promises to be no different, with performers from China, Indonesia, and Malaysia set to blow your mind. Imagine being transported across continents without leaving Malaysia – that’s what Kaleidoscope VII will do for you in a stunning two-hour performance featuring over 100 talented artists.

A Journey Through Global Rhythms
This year’s festival is all about celebrating cultural diversity through the universal language of percussion. One of the highlights? The Chongdaoyuan Jiangzhou Drum Troupe from China. As a national intangible cultural heritage unit, they’ll immerse you in ancient rhythms with traditional Chinese percussion instruments. Their performance promises to whisk you away to another time, all while seated in the heart of Kuala Lumpur.

Indonesia’s Gamelan Yuganada, led by the renowned composer I Wayan Sudirana, will add a touch of the ethereal with their performance of “Pesu Mulih.” This piece beautifully showcases the intricate rhythms of Balinese gamelan, embodying a balance of opposing forces to create musical harmony. Trust me, this is something you need to experience live!

Malaysian Percussion at Its Finest
Of course, the local talent will take center stage as well. Malaysia’s very own Hands Percussion will debut their innovative piece, “Re-percussion,” offering a fresh take on traditional drumming by deconstructing and redefining rhythm. And that’s just the start!

The award-winning contemporary gamelan group, Rhythm in Bronze, will captivate with their performances of “Samudra Vasane” and “Suntuk Masa,” drawing you into reflections on nature and time. Plus, the high-energy Sri Maayakarar will ignite the stage with their electrifying fusion of ancient Tamil beats and modern rhythms in their Urumi Melam performance.

And if that’s not enough, you’ll also witness awe-inspiring performances by Akademi Ajurnasukma, San Percussion, Dhiya Suhaili, and Leslie Anak Ali, each bringing their own unique flavor to the festival.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This
Kaleidoscope VII isn’t just a concert – it’s a celebration of unity through rhythm. By bringing together performers from different cultures, this festival highlights how music connects us all, no matter where we come from. It’s a rare opportunity to experience this level of cultural immersion through drumming, right here in Malaysia.

Mark your calendars
Dates & Time: 19 October 2024 (Saturday), 8 PM
20 October 2024 (Sunday), 11:30 AM & 4:30 PM
Venue: Zepp Kuala Lumpur
Ticket price: RM88.00, RM168.00, RM268.00, RM368.00, RM468.00

Get your tickets now on Cloudjoi. You don’t want to wait – tickets are selling fast, and this is one experience you’ll remember for years to come. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!