Trainee STB/KePKAS2017-08-28T09:18:58+08:00KOTA KINABALU: Black box theatres became popular and widespread particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, during which low-cost experimental theatre was actively practiced as never before.
Almost any open space in any building can be transformed into a black box, including abandoned cafes and stores, the appeal for non-profit and low-income artists is high. The black box is also considered by many to be a place where more ‘pure’ theatre can be explored, with the most human and least technical elements being in focus.
Inspired by this idea, The International Institute of Human Capital and Entrepreneur Sabah (IINSCAPE) has set up Sabah’s first community theatre for performing arts.
The theatre or aptly named Black Box KK is a 400-seat state-of-the-art, flexible artistic theatre located on the 8th floor of Suria Sabah Shopping Mall here – a flexible and multi-functional performing arts space.
Why is it called the ‘Black Box’? Because it is black. Black is the absence of colour and black is the absorption of all colours and this space will see the absorption of all the creative and performing arts. At the same time, the black box is a fullness – it has everything inside it – everything that is waiting to happen.
A few reasons why Sabah needs Black Box? First, there is no other space in Kota Kinabalu of this size and with this kind of flexibility.
Second, this theatre is affordable and manageable for artists, thus contributing to the professional development of young Sabahan artists, performers, groups and companies.
Third, the size helps develop a high public standard of performance by making it possible to have multiple performances by one artist or group.
Fourth, it provides a fully-equipped experimental workshop area for the development of creativity and talent among Sabahans.
Fifth, the Black Box will help develop a theatre-going public in Kota Kinabalu who will appreciate and support the performing arts on a regular basis.
Sixth, Kota Kinabalu as a city needs a theatre like this to contribute to the development of its image as a vibrant city in South East Asia. And lastly, the variety of events at the Black Box will contribute richly to what Kota Kinabalu can offer as an emerging, dynamic, liveable, leading city in Malaysia and in the region.
Who will perform at the black box? Young local performers, group and companies will be able to afford to use this space for their shows – bringing in around 400 people for each performance. This means they will be able to put on more than one show, developing a high public standard of performance – an important aspect of professional theatre. Drama, music, dance, story-telling, stand-up comedy, fashion shows – all of these will be presented here at the Black Box.
Artists, photographers, filmmakers – the Black Box is also open to them as we will be offering on-going exhibitions and screenings.
Children are an important focus for the Black Box – here is the audience of tomorrow, so let’s develop their appreciation of the performing arts today. Let’s also develop their potential talent through workshops and other events.
The Black Box will represent Sabah to the rest of the world by offering special shows geared towards tourists and visitors. Their experience of Kota Kinabalu will be enriched by the unique opportunity they have at the Black Box to experience the talent of the locals. With enthusiastic support, the Black Box will flourish and succeed.
