In a world where most communication happens through screens, the performing arts remain a rare opportunity for genuine, in-person self-expression. Recognising this, Dr. Sergio Camacho from the School of Humanities took on the role of Director of Performing Arts to make the arts a vital part of campus life. After a decade of live productions, the unexpected happened. 

A Brave New Normal 

The pandemic hit the performing arts industry hard, particularly in Malaysia. Productions were cancelled, theatres closed, and creative communities faced uncertainty. Today, Malaysia’s performing arts industry is still on the road to recovery. 

Dr Sergio Camacho (right) as Sancho in UniPerArts’ production of Don Quixote, A Man of La Mancha (2017)

Innovation on the Global Stage 

Under Dr. Sergio’s guidance, UniPerArts, the university’s performing arts platform, has redefined theatre with its innovative approach to international hybrid performance. While others saw barriers during the lockdown, he and the team saw a new need for expression and the opportunity to create a new form of theatre.

This vision led to their two acclaimed productions: Brave New Normal (2021) and COVID-19_84 (2022). Both productions were performed live simultaneously and synchronously in Malaysia and China, connecting campuses through a seamless blend of physical stage performance, creative encounters, and virtual theatre. This groundbreaking model redefined cross-border collaboration, especially in regions with limited resources or travel access.

The pandemic challenged everything we knew about performance. We had to look beyond technical limitations and transform them into a new paradigm for performing arts. Hybrid theatre has emerged as a powerful new performance language, with the potential to transform and redefine the industry, making the arts more innovative, inclusive, and accessible,” said Dr. Sergio. 

Over the past decade, more than 1,400 students, staff, alumni, and community members have participated in over 12 major productions and several international festivals under UniPerArts. Through these initiatives, they’ve gained experience in digital production, intercultural teamwork, and creative problem-solving. 

As the global performing arts landscape finds its rhythm again, UNM stands at the forefront, inspiring institutions and production houses to embrace innovation and redefine how we connect through the arts. With forward vision, resilience and creativity, the show can go on.