Blog about Encore Melaka – one of the newest tourist attractions in Melaka that is worth a half day trip.
Being the largest performing arts theatre in Asia, Encore Melaka take prides in their 360 degree rotating audience platform facing a 240 metre-long stage with multiple built-in hydraulic stages, putting together state-of-art-technology to present an immersive performance that is set to deliver an awe-inspiring experience.
The show, which lasts for 75 minutes, will bring audience through the untold stories of Melaka in a form of unique art performance, coupling vivid combination of audio and lighting, 3D projection mapping with intricate theatre props and 200 art performers to create a virtual reality of time and space.
Apart from the show, what makes Encore Melaka more memorable is the building itself. Designed by Mr Wang Ge, the Chief architect of Encore Melaka from Beijing Institute of Architectural Design (BIAD), the architecture features multi-ethnicity and cultural diversity of Melaka in a modern, creative way, uncomplicated yet sophisticated.
He always believes that – less is more. As what you can see from the building, it appears minimalism, but doesn’t fall short in wow-factor.
The theatre, which embodies blue and white, highlighting purity, eternity and simplicity that reflects the unpretentious society inviting the world to the compelling story of Melaka. Also signifying the colud and the sea, movement and serenity, where East meets West.
An organic canopy entrance leading to a blue foyer – the marker of the main façade – covering with porcelain tiles. Different shade of blues adds finishing touches that bring spaces to life. It is a metaphor for Melaka’s multiculturalism where they would mingle and naturally merge into a united society as a whole.
The geometric roof too, has concaved arcs made out of thousands of fish scale-like LED panels, reflecting light from the ever-changing and vibrant sky of Melaka.
Ticketing Counter and Kiosk
Here’s some peeps to the storyline of the show! Let’s start.
1st Scene PARAMESWARA
It all began with the famous tale of how Melaka got its name, when the Prince of Sumatra, Paramesware came to Melaka on a hunting mission. Parameswara was resting under a tree near a river, when his dogs cornered a mousedeer. He saw the mouse deer bravely kicked the hunting dog into a river and run away. Astounded by the courage and relentlessness of the mouse deer, Parameswara then decided to build his kingdom there and named it after the tree he rested under – Melaka.
2nd Scene CHENG HO
In 1405, Cheng Ho and his men arrived in Melaka for the first time after a long journey. His arrival was marked by the drummers from his fleet. They reached Melaka in peace. It was here that they fell in love with the locals, had children of their own, began the heritage of the distinctive Baba Nyonya culture.
3rd Scene Nyonya & wedding
As the ship journeys through time, we are welcome with the sight of local daily events, from traditional dances to preparation for a wedding. Here in 1880, we witness the wedding of Baba Ah Jie and Nyonya Ah Lan. This lavish performance involves immersive dances and colorful props, which also showcase the importance of ancestral practices such as bowing as a form of respect to their ancestors since the Cheng Ho’s fleet.
4th Scene Six Mothers
A tale of an old man and his six mothers. He recalls the year of 1948, when there was a shipwreck. He was an infant then, floating on a plank which has drifted to Melaka port. His cries caught the attention of six women there. They decided to adopt and raise him.
His memories is portrayed on the hydraulic stage. The six mothers, together nurtured and cared for him. Every year, they would take a family portrait. Even after 70 years have passed and all his mothers have been laid to rest, he still consumed by his endless devotion and longing for them.
5th Scene Pregnant Women
This scene pays homage to those that had brared difficult times during the war in Melaka. Despite their harsh fate, the people of Melaka were still remained valiant in striving for their future generations. The “Pregnant Women” scene symbolizes the new birth of Melaka. A new generation.
6th Wau
Fast forward to today, Melaka is now claimed as a UNESCO World Heritage city. Tradition and rituals were passed to each generation, forming a unique blend of culture and lifestyles. This scene shows the dedication of a passionate craftsman named Awang. He devoted his life as a kite maker, ensuring his traditions lived on. Chief Director Wang Chaoge pays tribute to all the inheritors; from the blacksmiths and songket weavers, to the silat and zapin dance teachers, as well as the beloved chicken rice ball cooks. They have contributed to Melaka’s historical identity. This truly exhibits the Malaysian spirits.
7th Finale
This modern approach to storytelling features the songs and tales of Encore Melaka which showcases the talents, authentcity and uniqueness of what Melaka has to offer. The extravafant significance of the whole performance will be forever etched in your minds.
We really enjoyed the show in Encore Melaka. A really special theatre performance on legends and history of Melaka – told through the art of song, dance, virtual scenery and modern effect that enhance our senses.
After the show, don’t missed out the chance to take photos with the performers outside of the theatre. No charges required for the photo session.
In conjunction with Encore Melaka’s 1st Anniversary, they have a special Cultural Night from 5 ~ 7 July 2019 (6pm ~ 11pm). Durng the 3 days event, there will be art market, food bazaar and some cultural performance for you to enjoy.
Besides, Encore Melaka will also having a special promotion prior to their 1st anniversary. You only need to pay total RM77 (for 2 pax) for the Encore Melaka ticket. This is valid from 1 ~ 31 July 2019, 777 limit seats for Standard & Premium seat only, with T&C apply for Mykad holder.
**Shh… book through shopee.com.my for exclusive premium row tickets (RM77 for 2 pax instead of normal price RM228 per pax) which offers you the best spot to enjoy the show.
Do check out Encore Melaka the next time you are in this historical city.
Address:
Encore Melaka
No. 3 Jalan KSB – Impression 8 Impression City,
Impression City, Kota Syahbandar, 75200 Melaka.
Encore Melaka Ticket Price:
MyKad Holders
Standard RM128, Premium 228, VIP RM528, Wheelchair RM98
International Guests
Standard RM148, Premium 248, VIP RM568, Wheelchair RM98
Encore Melaka Show Times:
Mon-Sat 5.30PM & 8.30PM
Sunday 2.30PM & 5.30PM
