PENANG will host its annual Yosakoi cultural celebration on June 21 with a free concert at the Esplanade in George Town, featuring four dynamic performance groups.
The event, which will run from 5pm till midnight, will feature two Yosakoi troupes from Japan, one from Singapore, and another from Thailand.
Pink Hibiscus Club founder Emi Yamazaki emphasised the importance of uniting diverse interpretations of the dynamic Japanese dance tradition on a single stage.
She said the event will conclude with a grand fireworks display and an official finale ceremony.
“This is a special event for Penang and a major step in celebrating cultural exchange through Yosakoi parade.
“We’re making this not just a show, but a platform to honour those who contribute meaningfully to cultural events like this,” she said.
After previously being held at Karpal Singh Drive, this year’s event will return to the historic Esplanade.
To recognise outstanding contributions, organisers will introduce the first-ever Yosakoi Contribution Awards during the event, with gold, silver, and bronze honours to be presented across various categories.
Emi estimated that around 10 recipients are expected to be acknowledged.
Adding to the festivities, the concert coincides with the start of Penang’s durian season, with local delicacies set to be featured prominently. A dedicated food street with retail booths and food stalls will be set up as part of the event.
“We believe this event will not only entertain but also boost tourism growth,” Emi added, noting that visitors will have the chance to sample some of Penang’s iconic dishes.
Among the dignitaries expected to attend are Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, state Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai, other state executive councillors, as well as consul-generals based in Penang.
Story by Edmund Lee