GEORGE TOWN, November 16 – Anticipation builds as the George Town Festival (GTF) prepares for its fifteenth edition in 2024, promising an exceptional 10-day celebration of arts and culture from July 19 to July 28. Themed “Here & Now,” the festival invites introspection and exploration, transforming George Town into a dynamic canvas for artistic expression that transcends age, interests, and expectations. Steering the festival into this new chapter is Kerson Media Global Sdn Bhd, taking over from TLM Event Sdn Bhd. Under the leadership of Artistic Director Ms. Ling Tang and Festival Director Ms. Chin Teo, the team aims to explore diverse possibilities for the arts and strengthen the connection between the festival and the city.
GTF 2024 maintains its reputation as an inclusive platform for local and international artistic talents, fostering interaction and appreciation for various art forms, including theatre, dance, music, film, and visual arts. The festival officially invites artists, performers, and culture enthusiasts to participate through an OPEN CALL for proposals. Local and international creatives, spanning seasoned artists to emerging talents, cultural groups, and individuals from diverse backgrounds, are encouraged to submit proposals via the OPEN CALL PORTAL at georgetownfestival.com. The submission window remains open until 11:59 p.m. on December 31, 2023 (GMT +8).
Expressing gratitude for the opportunity to organize GTF 2024 and 2025, Festival Director Chin Teo highlighted the theme “Here & Now,” challenging participants to redefine George Town and the festival itself. The festival aims to be a platform for traditional and experimental art forms, inviting artists to engage in dialogue and immerse themselves in the city’s essence. Kerson Media’s appointment of theatre director Ling Tang as the Artistic Director signals an exciting new phase for GTF. The call for proposals is an open invitation for artists worldwide to participate, collaborate, and contribute to the multidisciplinary offerings of GTF 2024.
In his speech, YB Wong Hon Wai, EXCO Tourism & Creative Economy, stressed the vital role of GTF in promoting cultural exchange, fostering community cohesion, and boosting tourism. Recognizing the festival’s contribution to Malaysia’s cultural landscape, he encouraged public support for the arts, emphasizing that a vibrant cultural scene nourishes the city’s soul. GTF 2024 seeks additional funding to establish itself as an internationally renowned cultural event, extending an invitation to businesses, corporations, foundations, and NGOs for sponsorship and collaboration. The festival aims to showcase the best of Penang’s creative heart and calls for public support to make GTF an impactful cultural celebration.
