Adapting Drama for Revolution

 Adapting Drama for Revolution

The story of the Perak Chinese Amateur Dramatic Association began in 1903, when a group of clerks, junior officials, bank employees, and young miners gathered at the Chinese Union Club on Hale Street, Ipoh, to play Cantonese music. Two years later, in 1905, they formed the Perak Chinese Dramatic Troupe and staged charity performances to raise funds for flood victims in Canton, China. After successful touring performances in Kuala Lumpur, the organization adopted the name Perak Chinese Amateur Dramatic Association.

In the early twentieth century, drama was far more than entertainment. Many Chinese migrants were illiterate, so opera became a powerful way to share news, preserve culture, teach moral values, and inspire patriotism. Through songs, costumes, and storytelling, audiences learned about loyalty, justice, sacrifice, and events unfolding in China.

The Association became a key cultural hub for Ipoh's Cantonese community. Its activities included Cantonese opera, music recitals, orchestras, charity fundraisers, festive celebrations, and community gatherings.

The Association also reflected the growing political awareness of overseas Chinese communities. Alongside other dramatic and cultural groups, it helped build support for Dr. Sun Yat-sen's revolutionary movement. Prominent supporters included Teh Lay Seng, Lee Guan Swee, Dr. Wong I Ek, Leong Sin Nam, and many others.

In 1935, the Association purchased a site on Osborne Street, now Jalan Dato Tahwil Azhar, for its landmark Art Deco headquarters. Construction was made possible through generous public support. Early contributors to the building fund included Lam Looking, Leong Sin Nam, Leong Kan, Foong Seong, and 120 others, whose names were inscribed on a marble plaque in the hall.

A portrait of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, donated by Leong Sin Nam, remains on display there today—a lasting reminder of the Association's connection to the revolutionary movement.