KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 18 -- After more than two years in the wings, Istana Budaya is back on centre stage.

The national theatre officially reopened in August, following a closure in 2024 for comprehensive maintenance works and roof upgrades.

It welcomed audiences back with a refreshed appearance and two big draws.

One was Douglas Lim: Vital Stats, a stand-up comedy special held on August 15.

The other was Mansur & Liu, an epic Malay musical theatre production directed and composed by Malaysian music maestro Datuk M. Nasir.

Both drew strong audience turnouts, reflecting continued interest in live entertainment and the performing arts.

Since reopening, the venue has received a positive response, with production companies returning to sta...