Cover Students in rehearsal during Lorong Cermin, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on collaborative, practice-led learning within a professional production setting (Photo: Taylor’s University)
Students in rehearsal during Lorong Cermin, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on collaborative, practice-led learning within a professional production setting (Photo: Taylor’s University)
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The January 2026 Production Practicum marked a significant moment for Taylor’s University’s Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours) programme, as it brought together students from all three specialisations, Performance, Dance, and Music in a single assessed production for the first time.
This large-scale collaboration reflected the realities of the performing arts industry, where practitioners from different disciplines work closely to deliver cohesive productions, and reinforced the programme’s long-standing emphasis on learning through hands-on experience.
At the centre of the practicum was Lorong Cermin, an original musical conceived, developed, and staged entirely by students. Set in a small-town rebuilding after a devastating flash flood, the production explored themes of memory, resilience, hope and redemption. From script and music to choreography, design and performance, every element was student-led under professional supervision. The outcome was not a conventional student showcase, but a conservatory-style production shaped by the discipline and expectations of professional theatre.
Above Student-designed puppetry, developed under the guidance of SIAPA Theatre, featured in Taylor’s University’s Production Practicum
Student-designed puppetry, developed under the guidance of SIAPA Theatre, featured in Taylor’s University’s Production Practicum
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This practice-led approach is central to how the programme is designed. “Academically, the programme challenges students through a curriculum that blends theory, creative practice, and technical competencies,” says Raziman Bin Sarbini, Programme Director of the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours).
Read more: Passion into profession: How Taylor’s University is shaping the future of performing arts talent
Beyond performance training, students develop a working understanding of production, directing, and arts management — building their professional confidence and preparing them to operate within the wider performing arts ecosystem.
Above Programme Director Raziman Bin Sarbini (third from left) guiding students through studio-based training that emphasises professional discipline, collaboration, and creative process
Programme Director Raziman Bin Sarbini (third from left) guiding students through studio-based training that emphasises professional discipline, collaboration, and creative process
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Industry collaboration is embedded throughout this learning journey. Partnerships with ASK Dance Company and Young Choral Academy provide students with access to industry practitioners and workshops, allowing them to create and perform under professional mentorship. The programme is further strengthened by the involvement of Adjunct Professors and industry leaders such as Siti Saleha binti Mohd Baharum, Datin Hajah Marlia binti Musa, Dato’ Dr Haji Mohamad Nasir bin Mohamed Sam, Maria Sascha Khan, and Professor Dr Joseph Gonzales, who bring contemporary industry perspectives into the classroom.
The Production Practicum brings these elements together in a live production setting that mirrors professional theatre practice.
Above From script and music to choreography and set design, students develop every creative element under expert mentorship as part of the Production Practicum
From script and music to choreography and set design, students develop every creative element under expert mentorship as part of the Production Practicum
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Lorong Cermin was directed by theatre practitioner Christopher Ling, Associate Artistic Director of The Actors Studio (Malaysia), with book and lyrics by Perassath and Merah Malam, and original songs and music by Joe Loy, who also served as vocal coach and provided vocal direction for the production. The production was also supported by a creative and production team comprising adjunct professors and programme lecturers, and incorporated puppetry designed by graduating students under the guidance of SIAPA Theatre, expanding both creative scope and technical depth. This collaborative teaching model reflects real-world production environments, where disciplines intersect and success depends on adaptability, teamwork, and shared artistic vision.
Above Performance students refine acting, directing, and stagecraft skills as part of an integrated, practice-led curriculum
Performance students refine acting, directing, and stagecraft skills as part of an integrated, practice-led curriculum
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As Southeast Asia’s performing arts scene continues to gain international recognition, Taylor’s University positions its Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours) programme as one grounded in professional practice. “The programme offers more than training, it is a transformative journey,” Raziman adds. “We aim to nurture graduates who are not only talented performers, but adaptable, entrepreneurial, and socially conscious practitioners ready to contribute meaningfully to the performing arts industry.”
Don’t miss: Taylor’s University introduces Malaysia’s first Bachelor in Philosophy, Politics and Economics
Ranked among the world's top 150 for Arts & Humanities in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, the University also offers students opportunities to transfer to partner institutions such as the University of Leeds, Middlesex University London, Deakin University, and the University of Melbourne — gaining exposure to diverse artistic and cultural contexts.
Learn more about the Bachelor of Performing Arts (Honours) programme at Taylor’s Open Day, taking place from February 28 to March 1 and March 14 to 15, where ambition is matched by opportunity.
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Images: Taylor’s University
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