All The World's A Stage

We talk to four key players revolutionising the performing arts scene in Malaysia and beyond.

- Anis Taufik

BERNARD GOH

Bernard Goh is the artistic director of Hands Percussion, a contemporary drumming performance movement.

Who is Bernard Goh?

I am intuitive, passionate and a very determined individual. A dreamer. I know what I want to achieve and often go to great lengths to make things happen.

What I do is to try and bring the best of percussion and the performing arts to audiences wherever we [Hands Percussion] go. There is an amazing amount of beauty in art, music and culture around the world – we simply need to look for it.

What was the inspiration for hands Percussion?

My love for music, art and percussion. My curiosity about culture, people and how the performing arts can bring out the best in people.

What’s the most rewarding thing about what you do?

Watching people grow in character and confidence, moving on to bigger and better things through the ups and downs of the performing arts. I love having the means to influence people and society to be more open, more inclusive and less judgmental. We have to define our own happiness. Let’s not forget the thrill of discovering new talent or new art forms to introduce to audiences here.

What’s a good performer?

My definition of a good performer is someone who knows himself and his art well enough, and yet will continuously strive to improve and stretch himself. He’s someone who is able to make mistakes, learn and grow.

Any advice for someone who wants to join the performing arts?

Know yourself, your work and the industry. Be passionate and work hard. Be prepared for critics, rejections and a steep learning curve. You need to truly want to be here and have the drive to move forward.

What’s a common misconception people have about the performing arts?