2nd International Invitation of the 24 Festive Drums
2nd International Invitation of the 24 Festive Drums
The 24 Festive Drums was founded in 1988, here in Johor Bahru. The brainchild of two cultural activists Tan Chai Puan and the late Tan Hooi Song; Chai Puan, a businessman, talented poet and cartoonist, wrote the poetry while Hooi Song composed the music.
The inspiration for the 24 drums was based on the 24 festivals in the Chinese lunar calendar throughout the four seasons of spring, summer, autumn and winter, which has guided the traditional Chinese agricultural community for thousands of years. A full troupe therefore consists of 24 drums, each bearing two bold Chinese characters representing each of the 24 festivals. The music and choreography are arranged to harmonise gracefully into a performing art that depicts the cycles of the 24 seasons in music, calligraphy and the rhythm of life.
In 2009, the Unity, Culture, Arts and Heritage Ministry listed the performance as a “national cultural heritage”. Mr Tan Hooi Song was also bestowed the “Wawasan Orang Hidup” award, becoming the first ever Chinese to receive this unique recognition.
From its humble beginnings here in Johor Bahru, the 24 Festive Drums has garnered recognition and acclaim both locally and internationally. The performing art is not only popular in Malaysia, but has also become popular and gained a following in Singapore, China, Taiwan, Thailand, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.
