Magic Mirror - The Musical - An introduction by Datin Tan Swee Lai, Secretary General of Yayasan Guan Yin

It is a belief that Avolokitesvara Bodhisattvas, or Guan Yin, does not appear in any form or shape. In order to edify and provide guidance to all sentient beings, the Bodhisattva takes on many different roles and appearances to deal with varied situations and the diverse group of people surrounding them. “Magic Mirror- The Musical” is organized and presented by Yayasan Guan Yin, to depict the magical manifestations and profound compassion of Avolokitesvara Bodhisattvas in an artistic format and play. "Magic Mirror - The Musical" will be premiered on 27th November 2008, at the Genting International Showroom in Genting Highlands and will continue to run until the 14th December 2008. It will feature the renowned Chinese dancer, Professor Yu Xiao Xue and a team of highly talented casts comprising of performing artistes from China and Malaysia.

In addition to Professor Yu, Yayasan Guan Yin has also engaged the famous stage designer, Master Ren Dong Sheng from China to impart his expertise in order to make this stage performance an astounding success. In addition to these two talented professionals, we are proud to announce that Mr. Chow Kam Leong will take on the role as music director/cheorograper throughout the entire performances. For record purposes, the talented Mr Chow is rated to be one of Malaysia’s top song writer, composer and music producer. With the combined expertise from this trio, the staging of the “Magic Mirror- The Musical” will indeed become a masterpiece reality, combining songs, dances and lively music to enchant the audience.

We are proud to announce that this is the third time Yayasan Guan Yin will be working with Professor Yu Xiao Xue, following the successes of our theatrical performances, the "Thousand Arms Thousand Eyes " in 1999 and 2001 respectively. To ensure continuing success, Yayasan Guan Yin has also encouraged local talents and casts, including volunteers to participate in this forthcoming event. Hence, I firmly believe this move will help contribute towards the promotion and development of local performing arts to a recognized international acknowledgement. In addition, the staging of the “Magic Mirror-The Musical" coincides with the 9th Anniversary of the founding of Yayasan Guan Yin, and this event will definitely add to another milestone in the record and history of the foundation.

Finally, this musical performance which portrays the selflessness and compassion of Bodhisattva hopes to remind all sentient beings to be calm, restraint, peaceful and compassionate, especially in this era of turbulence and chaos that the world is experiencing. It is also our fervent hope that it will truly help to spread Bodhisattva's compassion throughout the world, thus alleviating the plight of the unfortunates, propagating kindness to all mankind and creating a caring and sharing society. In conclusion, I also sincerely wish to witness the strengthening of ties between Malaysia and our Chinese counterparts especially in this field of performing arts and theatres.