Cover Taylor’s University is shaping a new generation of artists and creatives poised for success worldwide (Photo: Taylor’s University)
Taylor’s University is shaping a new generation of artists and creatives poised for success worldwide (Photo: Taylor’s University)
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Malaysia’s ‘first lady of theatre’, Professor Dato’ Dr Faridah Merican and Taylor’s University’s Bachelor of Performing Arts programme director Raziman Sarbini show us the passion, grit and real-world skills to be gained from this renowned arts programme co-created by Taylor’s University and The Actor’s Studio (TUTAS)
“Life is short—there is no point having all the skills in the world without the passion and drive to make things happen,” muses Professor Dato’ Dr Faridah Merican, programme development director and adjunct professor of Taylor’s University’s Bachelor of Performing Arts, Malaysia’s first Performing arts conservatory degree. Revered and loved as the first lady of Malaysian theatre, Merican has been a veteran of local performing arts since the 1960s, launching The Actors Studio in 1989 with her husband Joe Hasham and co-founding The Actors Studio Academy in 1992.
“It has been a dream of ours to teach at the tertiary level and our dream came true when we found a partner in Taylor’s University and co-established TUTAS, Malaysia’s first conservatory-style degree programme for the performing arts,” she adds. “It seems I have come full circle from my early teaching days, and I still find great joy working with the next generation of theatre makers.”
The Bachelor of Performing Arts programme stands a league above the rest. This unique degree blends academic rigour, industry expertise, and hands-on experience to nurture the next generation of performing arts professionals.
Above Professor Dato’ Dr Faridah Merican, programme development director and adjunct professor of Taylor’s University’s Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours) programme
Professor Dato’ Dr Faridah Merican, programme development director and adjunct professor of Taylor’s University’s Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours) programme
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This year, the Bachelor of Performing Arts introduced the Dance and Music specialisations in addition to its performance track, providing students with a more rounded experience that will ultimately broaden their skillsets and enhance their career opportunities.
With this comprehensive curriculum, arts students have a leg-up in the fascinating world of fine arts, combining hands-on training with theoretical knowledge, real-world industry experience and collaborations, and a host of meaningful experiences delivered by industry professionals.
“The conservatory approach is what sets us apart,” explains Merican. “Our students spend most of their time doing studio or floor work, supported by access to the facilities and productions at The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac). This immersive environment ensures they are industry-ready from the day they graduate.”
Where passion meets purpose
For many, the performing arts represent a calling—a desire to express, inspire, and connect. For Raziman Sarbini, celebrated dancer and programme director of the Bachelor of Performing Arts programme in Taylor’s University, this journey began in the culturally rich landscape of Sarawak. “Dance transcends words,” he reflects. “It conveys culture, identity, and emotion in profound ways.” From his early training at ASWARA to earning a Master of Fine Art (MFA) at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, Sarbini’s career has been a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the transformative power of the arts.
Above Celebrated dancer Raziman Sarbini is the programme director for Taylor’s University’s Bachelor of Performing Arts programme
Celebrated dancer Raziman Sarbini is the programme director for Taylor’s University’s Bachelor of Performing Arts programme
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At Taylor’s University, Sarbini brings his global experience to inspire students to discover their creative voices. “Our curriculum is a dynamic blend of artistic development and practical skills,” he shares. “Students engage in theatre, dance, and music while mastering areas like production, directing, and arts management. It’s about fostering well-rounded artists who can thrive on both local and international stages.”
At its core, this programme is about cultivating passion with purpose. Students receive one-on-one mentorship from faculty members who are seasoned artists and educators. “Each lecturer brings a wealth of experience,” notes Sarbini. “We emphasise both artistic exploration and professional readiness, ensuring our graduates are not only skilled performers but also adaptable professionals.”
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Real-world learning is a cornerstone of the Bachelor of Performing Arts programme. From internships with leading organisations to production practicums under the guidance of Merican and Hasham, students gain invaluable, real-world experience to complement their artistic training.
“By participating in diverse, hands-on projects and real-world industry training, students acquire adaptable skills that transcend borders, honing their craft in acting, dance, and music with an international perspective,” Sarbini adds. “Beyond technical expertise, we instil a resilient, entrepreneurial mindset, encouraging students to think creatively and connect meaningfully with audiences worldwide. This unique approach nurtures a new generation of artists—rooted in Malaysia, yet poised to make their mark on stages across the globe.”
Students also benefit from workshops, guest lectures and masterclasses led by industry luminaries. The fruits of these insightful partnerships are clear, as graduates like Charmaine Cheong, now a film and stage actress in the UK, and Charity Yong, a choreographer and teacher in Penang, and many others have translated their passion into fulfilling careers.
Whether your passion lies in acting, choreography, or arts management, this programme provides a platform to transform dreams into reality. As Sarbini shares, “The Bachelor of Performing Arts programme is a compelling choice due to its rich industry connections and hands-on learning experiences. Our partnership with The Actors Studio offers students a direct link to Malaysia’s leading performing arts institution while our new partnerships with ASK Dance Company and the Young Choral Academy offers students access to top-tier training and performance opportunities.”
Ready to take centre stage? Explore the Bachelor of Performing Arts programme at Taylor’s University and begin your journey into the vibrant world of performing arts. You can also visit Taylor’s Open Day on December 14 – 15, 2024
Previously contributing to Esquire Malaysia, Expat Lifestyle and Newsweek, Tania oversees digital stories across Tatler’s key content pillars, also leading the Front & Female platform exploring issues and topics affecting women today.
