Joanna Bessey

new singing classes and more!

2012-01-27T03:32:00.000-08:00

So You Still Think You Can Act?? Sing? Dance?! Write Your Play?? 2012

2012-01-05T00:18:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year 2012!

My new scene study class for adults starts this Monday! And for kids ages 8-12years, this Saturday. If you're interested please contact zizie.enact@enfiniti.com.my

For the first quarter we have my new acting classes, a scriptwriting workshop with Na'a Murad, news broadcasting and TV presenting with Bettina Khan (Bettina Chua, formerly from CNBC News Asia) and dance with Pat Ibrahim and Suhaili Micheline.

Singing class and more will be announced soon. Private vocal classes are currently available which can be scheduled to suit your time.

Here in Kota Damansara, in the Strand. Enfiniti Academy (under the umbrella of Enfiniti Vision Media, Datin Seri Tiara Jacquelina) is opposite the Giant here and the Strand is close to the Air Asia Tune Hotel and Sunway Giza, further in from Ikea and the Curve etc. Map: http://www.facebook.com/enfinitiacademy?sk=app_129982580378550

Start off the New Year by improving your skills in a fun class with celebrity teachers, at affordable prices!

http://www.facebook.com/enfinitiacademy

See you in class!

School's Out, Musical Theatre's In! - Introducing our Teachers! Learn drama, singing and dance from our Musical Theatre experts!

2011-11-16T00:46:00.000-08:00

Enfiniti Academy, ENACT

School's Out, Musical Theatre's In! -Musical Theatre Workshop for Kids and Teens in Petaling Jaya!

2011-11-16T00:15:00.000-08:00

An introduction to the performing arts for young people!

I'll be teaching drama for musical theatre at this upcoming December 2011 workshop for kids and teens, along with other industry professionals, including Aaron Khaled (The Secret Life of Nora), Ida Mariana (Puteri Gunung Ledang), Suhaili Micheline (The Secret Life of Nora), Michael Xavier Voon (director of Shout!) and Ann Tan (dance teacher extraordinare). See you there!

contact: zizie.enact@enfiniti.com.my

http://www.facebook.com/enfinitiacademy

my program on bbc knowledge

2011-11-01T09:59:00.000-07:00

Click on this link to see me on the BBC Knowledge website!

BBC Knowledge

I think you can leave a comment or check the guide/schedule to find out when it will be on! :))

Directing Dreamgirls, the Broadway Musical

2011-10-30T10:03:00.000-07:00

In the first 7 months of 2011, I directed a Broadway musical and had a baby. Two life-changing milestones (for me) and that’s not the half of it..........

Needless to say, it’s been hard to find a moment to update my blog. In fact I started writing this in August and it is now the end of October! Only now do I understand how intense, time-consuming and remarkable it is, to be a parent and a mother. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.

I do plan to blog about this amazingly intense, yet fun, humbling, pride-giving, wonderful and very, VERY painful experience of juggling the two new loves of my life, my newborn son and directing in the theatre, but perhaps when I’ve caught up on some sleep! Perhaps in another couple of months........ ;)

But I must say, we had a great cast, crew and production team and I feel very privileged to have worked with them all. I really felt I gave ALL the energy and love I had to this fabulous musical (which was not so easy while breastfeeding, attending to a newborn, getting used to being a mother and not having had a full night’s sleep for the last 8months! Aaaah!). I don’t think the cast will ever really know how much I loved them, until they themselves have a baby one day in the future! But this was one production, and opportunity to exert my artistry, which I could never have turned down.

In the meantime, below is an amazing review I got from Terence Toh and my director’s notes that were in the programme book of the musical, Dreamgirls.

Director Joanna Bessey did

a fantastic job with the staging,

with all scenes being visually

and musically arresting. Her

production captured perfectly

the glitz of 1960s America,

where soul and disco ruled the

airwaves. Particularly well done

is the opening scene, a talent

show, where despite many things

happening simultaneously, the

action was well coordinated, your

attention always drawn to the

crucial parts of a scene.

Whether through colourful

costumes, inspired lighting,

massive backdrops, pyrotechnics

or props (even a scale model

of a Cadillac at one point!)

every number was memorable.

Dreamgirls was the kind of show

where you sat at the edge of your

seat, awestruck, wondering how

anything could top what you’d just

seen, and then the next musical

number comes and blows you

away completely.

http://www.scribd.com/doc/61181782/Selangor-Times-July-29-31-2011-Issue-35

Programme Book, Joanna Bessey's notes:

Musicals are always about bringing the outside world into the theatre and this time we have brought New York and Broadway to KL! But with a cast and creative team from right here!

Having the opportunity to direct a Broadway musical in our national theatre has been nothing short of a wonderful dream for me! Not only have I had a dream cast to work with but we also have a fantastic production team who made this "Dream" possible, despite almost impossible odds. Life has a funny way of imitating Art and vice-versa.

I want to thank the producers for creating this opportunity and doing something so ambitious; and I must thank the whole team who have turned this "Dream" into a reality.

I am hoping this is a step in the right direction and adding toward nurturing world-class talent who are home-grown in Malaysia. I do believe world-class shows are already starting to come into fruition, right here in our small industry and hopefully it will continue to grow and even start to be exported on a more regular basis to the rest of the world. And having some cross-cultural exchange, such as this, in which we can learn from Broadway's best, is definitely a step forward on the path to excellence.

I hope you, the audience will agree and be proud of our talented cast, the first Malaysians doing a Broadway show right here in KL!

Love Journey 2 coming soon in April 2011! Busy end to 2010...

2011-01-19T09:04:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy past couple of months with a lot of projects in the works coming soon! Including the character of "Lily M. La Rue" who returns to the stage with the Michael Veerapen Trio in April 2011!
More uploads and pics of Love Journey part 1 coming soon!........

In the meantime, catch Joanna Bessey with the Michael Veerapen Trio this weekend, 21st and 22nd January 2011 at the Mezze Lounge, 9:30pm. http://www.mezze.my

Since the re-run of "Shout!" the musical in October:
I performed (sang) with the Michael Veerapen Trio at Alexis Bistro,
was a judge at the "Short & Sweet" theatre festival,
performed in a MRCA corporate show,
shot a cameo role in the mini-series about "Natrah",
continued my voice-over recordings for the animated series, "Supertots",
played a BBC-type news reporter in a commercial shoot for Mercedes (it was exciting working with a Swiss Oscar-nominated director, Reto Caffi! But I did feel rather short next to him! He is double my height; seriously),
directed the ACTS school students in their year end musical production "The King of Pop" at KLPAC Pentas 1,
conducted a week of auditions for the musical "Dreamgirls" with Broadway Academy (which I've been asked to direct later this year),
organised Heidi Vogel to fly from London to perform at Alexis Bistro,
continued my rehearsals with Dato' Faridah Merican for the play I'll be doing with her in May
and finally took some family time off at Christmas! Whew!!!
It's been a crazy busy end to 2010! And all this plus a lot of life-changing family stuff as well!......It's no wonder I haven't had a chance to write a post in a while! :) But I promise to post some more pics and video snippets of all this soon-ish...... :) Meanwhile please check out the link to snippet of Heidi's gig at Alexis (below) Enjoy!

(tired after a short overnight shoot for "Natrah" in Frasers Hill)

Heidi Vogel at Alexis Bistro, December shows

2011-01-19T08:59:00.000-08:00

Check out the snippet from Heidi's Alexis Bistro gig in December! Plus her radio interview on BFM. Enjoy! Go to http://joannabesseyproductions.blogspot.com

The re-run of Shout! -the musical!

2010-10-08T10:53:00.000-07:00

SHOUT! is the mod musical magazine that brings back the beautiful birds and smashing sounds that made England swing in the 60's.

From cover-to-cover SHOUT! travels in time from 1960 to 1970 chronicling the dawning liberation of women. Just as Dusty Springfield, Petula Clark, Cilla Black, and Lulu were independent woman with major careers, English and American women were redefining themselves in the face of changing attitudes about gender. SHOUT! reflects that change through the unforgettable music of the time.

SHOUT! flips through the years like a musical magazine and takes you back to the music, the fashion and the freedom of the 60's! This smashing revue tracks five groovy gals as they come of age during those liberating days that made England swing!

Terrific new arrangements of such chart-topping hits as "To Sir With Love," "Downtown," "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me," "Son of A Preacher Man," and "Goldfinger." It'll make you want to throw back your head and Shout!

Cast: Ning Baizura, Tria Aziz, Shanel Shanty James, Tisha Zarina, Stephanie Van Driesen, Joanna Bessey

DATE
FRI
15 Oct 3.30pm & 8.30pm

SAT
16 Oct 3.00pm & 8.30pm

SUN
17 Oct 3.00pm & 8.30pm

TUE
19 Oct 8.30pm

WED
20 Oct 8.30pm

Ticket prices vary from RM 55 to RM 168 with all sorts of promotions going on and discounts if you get your tix fast! With Visa you get 20% off, with Maxis and the Fan club 15% off etc. Check out axcess.com.my

VENUE
MaTiC theatre on Jalan Ampang, KL (next to Zouk).

See you there in your psychedelic outfits! ;)

Love Journey at KLPAC July-August

2010-10-07T00:52:00.000-07:00

My mum taught my sister and I how to weave the coconut leaves for our home-made ketupat(rice cubes)!

After taking a break for Raya and lots of family things, I finally have a chance to add photos while waiting my turn in rehearsals for the re-run of "Shout!" the musical.

It also happens to be my birthday today! For the first time in my life, I actually almost forgot it! That's how pre-occupied I've been. But this morning when I arrived at rehearsal the cast and crew surprised me with a giant birthday card and later a very fattening chocolate cheese birthday cake. We also had other goodies brought in by 'Datin', one of Shout's patrons. I'll post details for "Shout!" after this but it starts soon 15-20 Oct at MaTiC theatre.
From left to right: Tria Aziz, Michael Voon, Elaine Toon, me,Tisha Zarina, Shen, Ning Baizura, Alyssa, Tabitha Kong, Shanel Shanty & Stephanie VanDriesen & cakes........

My giant b-day card :)

But first I wanted to catch up and add photos from my first music-comedy-play at KLPAC with Michael Veerapen and his Trio (Steve Nanda & Wan Aferezal), Na'a Murad and special appearance by Megat Sharizal.

Michael Veerapen

Shamila Othman helped me to write the show and she did a brilliant job writing the final version which the audience experienced. Co-produced by KLPAC and my own Jo Be Productions, it went very well and KLPAC were really great, especially our stage manager Michelle and the support from Faridah and Joe. I also really liked Joel's design for the poster and the "menu" which was the programme booklet.

Steve Nanda

Wan Aferezal

The audience really enjoyed my idea of having a functional bar on-stage where one could buy drinks and be "part of the action". The front row were tables and chairs, in which I broke the "4th wall" throughout.

Na'a Murad

Overall, it was fun to perform and especially fun for me to see Michael and the other musicians acting as well! We shall most likely re-stage a sort of sequel next year.

Megat Sharizal and Na'a Murad

Thanks to everyone who came! See you next year where you can find out what happens in the next twist on Lily M. La Rue's "Love Journey"....

Curtain call with the playwright, Shamila Othman.

PHOTOS BY KELAB SHASHIN.

Love Journey with Joanna Bessey & Michael Veerapen

2010-07-23T13:31:00.000-07:00

"Love Journey" a comedy with song, starring Joanna Bessey as the depressed jazz singer, "Lily M. La Rue", Na'a Murad as the bartender, "Frankie" and the Michael Veerapen Trio as "The Michael Veerapen Trio" stuck in a small jazz dive that feels like you walked onto the set of "Casablanca".....

A unique evening not to be missed!

28th July - 1 August 2010
Tickets $43/ students $23
A table for 4 people $250 comes with free bottle of wine.
Soft drinks, perrier, evian and heineken also can be had inside the theatre,
at KLPAC, www.klpac.org or call box office +603-4047-9000
or purchase tickets online at www.axcess.com.my

Michael Veerapen on BFM radio about "Love Journey"

2010-07-23T13:20:00.000-07:00

From piano-lesson hater to Jazz pianist extraordinaire, Michael Veerapen has taken his craft to dizzying heights, both locally and abroad.

In the midst of other projects, he now tackles Love Journey, a jazz and blues concert which sees the Michael Veerapen Trio performing with the multi-talented Joanna Bessey.

Michael lets us in what's in store in Love Journey, while discussing his own musical journey thus far.

"Love Journey" starts next week! 28July-1August
for tickets www.axcess.com.my or call +603-4047-9000

2 New musicals for July 2010! "Shout!" and "Love Journey"

2010-07-11T02:36:00.000-07:00

Coming up next week "Shout! the Mod Musical" opens on the 15th July with multiple shows everyday until the 21st of July. Starring Ning Baizura, Tria Aziz, Tisha Zarina, Nikki Palikat, Shanel Shanty James, Stephanie Van Den Driesen and Joanna Bessey as the voice of 'Gwendolyn Holmes'.

SHOUT! is the mod musical magazine that brings back the beautiful birds and smashing sounds that made England swing in the 60's.

SHOUT! flips through the years like a musical magazine and takes you back to the music, the fashion and the freedom of the 60's! This smashing revue tracks five groovy gals as they come of age during those liberating days that made England swing! Join this non-stop journey through the infectious and soulful pop anthems and ballads that made household names of stars like Petula Clark, Dusty Springfield and Lulu. SHOUT! uses letters to an advice columnist, true confessions, quizzes and advertisements as a frame for terrific new arrangements of such chart-topping hits as "To Sir With Love," "Downtown," "You Don't Have to Say You Love Me," "Son of A Preacher Man," and "Goldfinger." With its irresistible blend of hip-swiveling hits, eye-popping fashions and psychedelic dances from the 60's, this fun-filled musical will make you want to throw your head back and SHOUT!

Presented in English with Malay subtitles.

For more information contact: www.broadwayacademy.asia

http://axcess.com.my/Shout

Ticket prices and details at axcess or:
http://www.klpac.com/Welcome.asp?c=whatsontheatreview&theatreID=411&theatrecatID=7

Following "Shout!" Joanna shall be performing/singing with the Michael Veerapen Trio in a special staging of songs from her "Love Journey". Feel the fusion between the theatre and a jazz club in Pentas 2 KLPAC from 28th July- 1st August, as you'll catch a rare performance of Joanna Bessey singing!

There is something about the music of the early 1900s. It was such an exciting time for jazz and blues. Radio stations were mushrooming all over America and the likes of Bessie Smith, Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald were on the rise.

Now almost a century later, the recordings of these greats still sit on the shelves of music lovers all over the world.

In Love Journey, you'll be transported back in time to a different era with music from the 1920s through to the 1950s. Malaysia's jazz legend Michael Veerapen and entertainment personality Joanna Bessey will be performing standards like Love Me or Leave Me, Cry Me a River, I Loves You Porgy, St. Louis Blues and Bye Bye Blackbird.

Audience will feel like they are in a bar even though they are in a theatre. That's because we will be re-creating a similar intimate and cozy atmosphere complete with an actual bar and bartender!

It will be a fantastic, new experience for music lovers where they can sit back and immerse themselves in the wonderful music and not be distracted by the din of a noisy bar.

Join us on this incredible journey through great music and love!

There will be individual seats sold as well as table for four with complimentary bottle of wine.

Ticket details and purchase at www.klpac.com or:

http://axcess.com.my/s_lovejourney10.asp?id=4368234958188045361652006127319974560513

May Madness! Laugh Fest, Midsummer Nights Dream, No Black Tie and more!

2010-06-03T03:30:00.000-07:00

Well the month of May has been insanely busy for me but also so much fun! I am surprised with how much I had to do, myself! So here are some pics of the highlights for the bloggers who like to check out the performing arts scene. And for those of you who came to support all the shows, you are my life! Literally! Thank you! :) I hope to keep producing new and fun work for your entertainment...in the meantime, enjoy this last month of May's work:

I was cast as 'Puck' in Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream", a dream role that I couldn't turn down, despite the fact that it was staged simultaneously as "So You Think You Can Mamak?" (the play I co-wrote and directed to open the Laugh Fest at PJ Live Arts). So rehearsals were everyday but somehow I managed to juggle both on alternate days. I just haven't had a day off in ages! But soooo worth it. Directed by Jeff Kevin from Australia, in workshop-style rehearsal, it was such a joy. And such a dream to be working with Shakespeare's words. We had totally packed houses with a lot of students who went wild on some nights, and every night we had half the audience dancing with us on stage for the "Bergomask" dance, but of course, Jeff's version was to Abba's "Dancing Queen"! Wonderful fun. And I learnt so much about Shakespeare, doing it in the more original presentational style, mostly addressing the audience directly. It took some getting used to but worked so sublimely!

And of course "So You Think You Can Mamak?" was staged at the Laugh Fest. Following this I performed in "Actor Olympics" which is always such a blast. It was totally sold out (couldn't even get tickets for my family!)and we had really fun audiences.

I'll be putting more fun back-stage photos on facebook.

Then of course I sang! For the first time in a really long time, I sang at No Black Tie with Michael Veerapen and his Trio. It was my first full show singing too! Really nerve-wrecking but a great learning experience for me and such a blast.

I really enjoyed the whole process thanks to Mike and am looking forward to next singing show coming up at the end of July at KLPAC! That's going to be really special. A merging of the theatre and a jazz club feel. These are a preview of some of our publicity shots (and don't worry, it's only apple juice!):

Shegar did a fabulous job on my hair!

Speaking of which, I also had a retro 60's hair-do for the Mersey Beatles concert, for which I was the emcee. They came all the way from Liverpool and were great fun!

And to top the month off, of course there was Relay for Life, in which Yasmin Yusuff organizes the Celebrity booth where we raise money by selling lots of blingy-flashy toys to light up the night, and get pledges to do our relay around the track. It's always really special and my sister and I decorated our Luminaria candle-bags in memory of our paternal Grand-father. It's always really special to meet all the Cancer Survivors and to be raising money in their aid.
(More silly celeb pics will be put on fb)

And that sums up some of the work in the month of May! Behind the scenes, there's really interesting projects coming up, including an animated series in conjunction with the World Cup....but I'll save that for next month.... ;) Jo Be.

Tickets- Early bird discount for "You Think You Can Mamak?"!

2010-04-17T01:03:00.000-07:00

Thanks for your feedback Kuro Syamito!

(Re. Kopitiam,see below)
Hope to see you at the show.
The ticket price is RM$45 and students & senior citizens get a 50% discount, but these seats are limited, so please book soon!

There is also an early bird discount of 20% for the whole Laugh Fest, up until 25th April 2010.

The PJLA Box office info is:
Phone: +603-7960-0439 (12pm-8pm Mon-Sun)
Email: boxoffice@pjla.com.my

And of course a map and all the details are also at www.pjla.com.my

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Re. Kopitiam,I get asked this question a lot, but unfortunately as I am not the producer I really have no control over where it is available. The first season used to be sold on VCD at Speedy, years ago, so you could try asking there, but I think it sold out a long time ago.

However the best people to ask are the producers Double Vision and their contact info is:

VISION NEW MEDIA SDN BHD
7, Jalan Semangat
46200 Petaling Jaya

Tel: +6.03.7954.5188
Fax: +6.03.7956.6663
Email: communications@visionnewmedia.net

If they tell you how to find Kopitiam, let me know! :)

So You Think You Can Mamak? - PJLA Laugh Fest in May

2010-04-08T11:41:00.000-07:00

"So You Think You Can Mamak?"

Upcoming One Act comedy play at the PJLA Laugh Fest, in Jaya One, Jalan University, Petaling Jaya.

5 performances:

30th April 8:30pm;

1st May 5pm & 8:30pm;

2nd May 3pm & 8:30pm.

Starring: Na'a Murad, Bella Rahim, Megat Sharizal, Nick Davis, Jenhan Kuah and Maya Tan Abdullah!

Directed by: Joanna Bessey

Get your "mamak" on!

For more info/ tickets, please call 03 79600439 from 11am - 6pm

OR email: boxoffice@pjla.com.my

Michelle Yeoh in person!

2010-04-08T11:24:00.000-07:00

I was the emcee for Anlene's launch recently and I got to get up close with their celebrity ambassador, Michelle Yeoh! She's amazing!

work blog

2010-02-02T07:07:00.000-08:00

Recent work pics at:

www.joannabesseyproductions.blogspot.com

Pics from FINAS Acting Masterclass from last week at:

www.facebook.com/privacy/?view=photos#/album.php?aid=133039&id=8781912363&ref=mf

Happy Holidays Everyone!

2009-12-23T19:40:00.000-08:00

Wishing you all the best and a fantastic year ahead in 2010!!!

Christmas article:
http://www.sun2surf.com/article.cfm?id=41199

For Christmas I wish that all my friends, family, fans and fellow-bloggers would make a new years resolution to change a habit in your lifestyle, to help make your life on this planet more sustainable, for the sake of our own survival!
Even if it's as simple as committing to rejecting plastic bags and bringing one's own shopping bags, recycling, not wasting water, switching off lights & appliances when not in use, using eco-friendly products, choosing where you eat wisely, buy organic produce, taking public transportation once in a while etc. These are all things we can easily do, that multiplied by 6.7 billion, will have a huge affect on reducing our negative impact! Let's do it!

Check out Christmas party article in this month's Home Dec magazine:

Article on cultural heritage in the NUT GRAPH.

2009-12-05T02:54:00.000-08:00

JOANNA Bessey first stepped into the Malaysian limelight when she joined the hit comedy series Kopitiam, which ran for seven seasons from 1997. She has since become one of Malaysia's most recognised entertainment personalities.............Check out the article at:

www.thenutgraph.com/embracing-different-cultures

Genting Trailblazer Greenaid run for Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)

2009-11-12T20:36:00.000-08:00

Getting down and dirty has taken on a whole new meaning for me after I took part in the Greenaid 3km "Fun Run" for Malaysian Nature Society, at the Genting Trailblazer recently. The gruelling obstacle course at the end after the 3km was crazy! I don't know how the real runners (who did 14km) managed it! It was arduous for me climbing up and down all the water, mud-banks and obstacles even after 3km!

The things I do for MNS! But it was really invigorating to be next to the forest in the very cool Genting air and mist at 7am! And although I complain now, secretly I loved it!

Drama Workshops for 8-15 year olds!

2009-10-20T21:49:00.001-07:00

DRAMA WORKSHOP 2009
It’s back !! , BIGGER and BETTER. Taught personally by Ms Joanna Bessey, an acclaimed actress most well known for her starring role in the long-running TV sitcom 'Kopitiam', this workshop promises to be filled with loads of fun and exciting activities your children would only dream of having . Enrol your children now and they will come back renewed with increased confidence and improvement in his/her speech. Furthermore, they will be able to gain stage experience because the workshop will end with a performance on 13 December 2009!

At ACTS School of Performing Arts
in Bukit Damansara
Tel : 012-657 9924

Important details are as follows :
Ages : 8 – 15 years old
Workshop : 24 Oct, 31 Oct 09,
7 Nov, 14 Nov, 21 Nov, 28 Nov09,
5 Dec, 12 Dec 09 ( Saturdays )

Rehearsal Dates : 22 Nov, 29 Nov, 6 Dec 09 ( Sundays )

Time : Saturdays : 1.30pm to 3.00pm ( 1½ hr )
Sundays: 2.00pm to 4.00pm ( 2 hr )

Notes

Due to limited space, participation is on a first-come first-served basis
Workshop fees include drama classes for 27 & 28 March 2010
Workshop fees do not include performance prop and costume
No replacement class for absentees
Time and rehearsal dates are subject to changes
Theme, time and venue for performance on 13 December 2009 are to be determined

Wacky Bar interview on BFM part 2

2009-10-16T04:13:00.000-07:00

Part 2: Joanne Kam on playing Shazila.

Wacky Bar interview on BFM

2009-10-16T04:09:00.000-07:00

Joanna Bessey, Director, Maya Tan Abdullah, Playwright and Joanne Kam who plays Shazila speak about their zany new play.

Part 1: What is 'Wacky Bar'?

"Wacky Bar" -behind the scenes

2009-09-06T10:15:00.000-07:00

I'm directing the play "Wacky Bar" coming up soon! 2-11 October at PJLA (PJ Live Arts) at Jaya One, Jalan University.

Preview 1st October (I'll be giving away free tickets for this on fb).

And I have a crazy-funny and huge cast! : Patrick Teoh, Rashid Salleh, Daphne Iking, Joanne Kam, Naa Murad, Ida Mariana, Elaine Pedley, Gavin Yap, Megat Sharizal, Maya Abdullah, Junji Gomes, Redza Minhat, Shamaine Othman,Iedil Putra Alaudin and Amber Chia!

Presented by PJLA.
Directed by Joanna Bessey
Artistic Director Dato' Zahim Albakri

Join our fb group for updates and photos!

New children's drama work-shop at KLPAC

2009-08-16T22:45:00.000-07:00

Check out the new workshop for kids coming up at Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre!

AUGUST HOLIDAY PROGRAMME: Way to Happiness Drama Workshop by Joanna Bessey

Dates: 24 - 26 August
Ages: 7 - 12 years
Time: 10.30am - 12.30pm
Course Fee: RM150
Registration: RM50

In this drama workshop for kids, the participants will learn how to be an actor by playing drama games. It will help them develop some improvisational skills and devise skits based on precepts from The Way to Happiness Children's Activity Book such as Look After Your Environment etc.

The programme introduces some basic acting exercises and techniques. It also encourages the participants to learn to make new friends while getting to know themselves better.

Joanna Bessey has had an illustrious acting career in television, film and theatre having done over 200 episodes of television, 6 TV movies, 5 feature films, commercials with 2 major celebrity endorsements, extensive voice-over work for commercials and animated series and numerous theatre productions, over the last 10 years. She studied and performed in theatre while in UK and then went on to study acting at the Beverly Hills Playhouse and also with Manu Tupou, American Repertory Theater in Los Angeles.

Radio interview podcast on BFM 89.9 for the "Good Body"

2009-07-15T22:04:00.001-07:00

Susan Lankester, Samantha Schubert and Joanna Bessey interview on BFM!

Our obsession with our bodies and our relationship with food - who is doing this to us?

What did they learn about themselves from this experience of staging this play?

New Pics! PR4A's Hand in Hand with the Stars Concert- Charity Concert for Autism

2009-07-03T23:22:00.001-07:00

HAND IN HAND WITH THE STARS
FUND RAISING CONCERT-
FOR PERSONS WITH AUTISM
at the PLENARY THEATRE
KUALA LUMPUR CONVENTION CENTRE, last weekend.

Charity concert for children/persons with autism. We had a blast!

The performers/musicians were amazing!:
Zainal Abidin, Jaclyn Victor (3rd July only) Juwita Suwito, Hands Percussion, Aseana Percussion Unit, the Shining Stars.

I was the emcee. The performers who had autism were incredible! The audience had such fun. I hope this helps to raise awareness of how special these young people are and the fact that there is so much that can be done. Some of the young talents were extremely gifted! Amazing stuff.

You can find out more info at:
www.pr4a.org.my

Thanks to Liz Claiborne for my cute outfits!

The Good Body, 18-28 June!

2009-06-11T22:31:00.000-07:00

THE GOOD BODY

Through her honest, insightful, and sometimes naughty portrayal of genuine experiences and real-life obsessions, Ensler strips the complicated issue of body politics down to its intimate essence, once again destroying pre-conceived notions about what women really think. This is new theatre at its finest: The Good Body will move, inspire,entertain-and just might make you blush a bit in the process.

STARRING
*** (in alphabetical order) ***
Joanna Bessey
Joanne Kam
Ida Nerina
Bella Rahim
Samantha Schubert
Anrie Too

Directed by : Susan Lankester
Producer : Meggie Teoh & Angeline Teoh

Venue : Sime Darby Convention Centre (Mt Kiara) Auditorium

Date : 18-21 June & 23-28 June 2009 @ 8:30pm
18 June 2009 - WAO Charity Night
28 June 2009 - extra matinee @ 3:00pm

Tickets . : RM82 & RM62, Matinee - RM52
Charity Night tickets - RM100 (all prices exclude AXCESS ticketing fees)

Tickets available at : www.axcess.com.my.
(Tel. 03- 7711 5000)
** Tickets on Sale from the 15th of April 2009 ** All Axcess ticket outlets in Klang Valley at Rock Corner Mid ValleyMegamall, Tower Records Lot 10, Stadium Putra Bukit Jalil, Axcessoffice Section 14, 1 Utama Box Office,Parkson Sunway Pyramid, Penang -Tower Records Gurney Plaza, Johor Bahru-Music Valley Holiday Plaza.

Contact InfoWebsite: http://www.venusbuzz.com/thegoodbody

mStar Online : Cikgu Joanna tempat murid mencurah kasih

2009-05-30T10:17:00.001-07:00

mStar Online : Cikgu Joanna tempat murid mencurah kasih

Shared via AddThis

Jumaat Mei 29, 2009

Cikgu Joanna tempat murid mencurah kasih

Joanna Bessey

BAIK dalam skrip drama La Dolce Amira mahupun skrip kehidupannya sendiri, aktres Joanna Bessey adalah seorang mentor dan pengajar.

Jika Joanna memegang watak Cikgu Krisya dalam drama sebanyak 13 episod itu, kehidupan sebenarnya ialah sebagai pensyarah sambilan di Universiti Multi Media(MMU).

"Apa yang melucukan ialah kadang-kala saya turut menggunakan skrip drama tersebut dalam kehidupan sebenar saya! Saya juga mengendalikan bengkel lakonan untuk mereka yang berminat menjadi pelakon.

"Atau mereka yang ingin menyampaikan maklumat dan berkomunikasi dengan lebih jelas. Jadi, saya mengajar mereka menggunakan 'teknik-teknik Aktor'," katanya ketika ditemui di pelancaran drama La Dolce Amira di TV3 baru-baru ini.

Joanna memberitahu, walaupun bukan mengajar secara sepenuh masa, dia berasa bangga kerana sesetengah pelajarnya di MMU seperti Megat Sharizal telah menjadi pelakon profesional.

Sementara itu, Joanna berkata, dia masih mengharap agar dia dapat diberi peluang memegang watak utama dalam filem atau drama Melayu suatu hari nanti.

"Berlakon dalam drama atau filem Melayu adalah mencabar dan menyeronokkan tetapi setakat ini, saya masih belum berlakon sebagai watak utama.

"(Jika berpeluang berlakon sebagai watak utama) itu akan mengujakan. Kalau boleh, saya ingin memainkan lebih banyak peranan terutamanya dalam persekitaran masyarakat negara yang menggunakan pelbagai bahasa.

"Kita rakyat Malaysia kaya dengan berbagai bahasa (multi-lingua) dan ini sesuatu yang harus kita banggakan. Saya suka cara kita melahirkan pendapat dan bercakap dengan pelbagai bahasa. Tidak banyak negara di dunia ini mempunyai keupayaan sebegini!" ujarnya.

JOANNA PERSIS CIKGU KRISYA

Lakonan Joanna sebagai Cikgu Krisya dalam 'La Dolce Amira' meninggalkan kesan pada dirinya. Tambahan hubungan rapat antara Cikgu Krisya dan anak muridnya Amira (lakonan Faizah) tidak ubah seperti hubungan Joanna dengan murid-muridnya di MMU.

Krisyalah tempat Amira bergantung harap. Sifat penyayang yang ada pada Joanna membuat dia senang menghayati watak ini.

Kisah drama La Dolce Amira berkisar tentang Amira, Bakri, Hani, Maznah dan V yang memulakan persahabatan di institut engajian tinggi dan meneruskan ikatan persaudaraan itu sehingga tamat pengajian.

Konflik dan pertelingkahan sering terjadi sepanjang perkenalan mereka. Namun, Amira sering menjadi sasaran untuk penyelesaian masalah sehingga dia sering menjadi mangsa keadaan.

Amira seorang yang penyabar dan optimis. Dia amat disayangi keluarga dan rakan-rakannya walaupun tuah sering tidak menyebelahinya.

Bagaimanapun, Amira tiada tempat mengadu kerana berdepan dengan masalah rumahtangga ibubapanya. Abangnya, Ariff bersikap endah tak endah dengan masalah ibubapa mereka manakala adiknya, Arissa masih mentah untuk memahami situasi sebenar.

Ekoran rentetan masalah yang dihadapinya itu, Amira menjadi semakin murung sehinggalah dia bertemu dengan Cikgu Krisya (Joanna Bessey).

Kata Joanna: "Saya memegang watak Krisya, mentor kepada watak utama Amira. Karakter saya menggalakkan dan memberikan inspirasi kepadanya untuk menjadi seorang penulis.

"Krisya juga mengendalikan kelas untuk membantu para pelajarnya agar mampu mengekspresikan diri dengan lebih baik," katanya sambil menjanjikan banyak adegan lucu dalam kelas disajikan dalam drama tersebut.

La Dolce Amira telah mula bersiaran pada 26 Mei lalu akan menemui penonton setiap malam Selasa di TV3.

TIDAK PERNAH MENYEPI

Ditanya kenapa dia seolah-olah menyepi dalam dunia hiburan ketika ini, Joanna yang pernah dicalonkan dalam kategori Aktor Sokongan Terbaik (Best Supporting Actor) dan Pengarah Terbaik (Best Director) pada Anugerah Seni Boh Cameronian menafikannya.

Jelasnya: "Hakikatnya saya kurang membuat penampilan di televisyen dan lebih kepada filem seperti Waris Jari Hantu and 1957 Hati Malaya) serta lebih banyak teater."

"Saya banyak berlakon dalam drama dan siri komedi yang menggunakan bahasa Melayu seperti Bilik 13, Untuk Kali Terakhir, Disitu Ada Cinta, Seni Beradab, Kasut Tumit Tinggi, 5 Jingga, Actor Olympics dan lain-lain," ujarnya.

Tegasnya, dia bukanlah menyepikan diri tetapi masih 'sibuk' di belakang tabir pentas hiburan.

"Terbaru, saya berlatih untuk teater The Good Body yang akan bermula dari 18-28 Jun ini di Pusat Konvensyen Sime Darby, Bukit Kiara," katanya sambil menambah dia turut menghoskan dokumentari 'Exploring Malaysia' on BBC World News.

Menurut Joanna, dokumentari tersebut yang mula bersiaran pada bulan lalu mendapat sambutan yang menggalakkan.

Katanya, dia berasa puas hati mengerjakan projek dokumentari.

"Saya menerima banyak maklum balas yang sangat positif dan mesej dari seluruh dunia. Contohnya, kawan-kawan saya dari Australia, Itali dan Amerika Syarikat yang menontonnya memberikan mesej kepada saya. Moga-moga, dokumentari itu boleh diulang tayangkan," katanya.

La Dolce Amira, new Drama series on TV3!

2009-05-23T09:08:00.000-07:00

First airs on TV3 this coming Tuesday 26th May 2009. My character only appears from the second episode onwards and I play the artistic mentor to the main character, Amira and I inspire her to be a writer.
Join the "sweet" (in Italian: dolce) Amira on her dramatic journey from a college student struggling to find her identity and voice in life, into an adult with all the challenges it brings....

The new website! www.joannabessey.com

2009-04-25T13:24:00.000-07:00

Please check out the new website! I would like to make a few minor changes in the content that I provided, but other than that, it's complete and I love what my web designers (Evoke Interactive) have done! Check out the little ladybird/ladybug that loves to bug you and follow you around. And there's some fun "drawers" in the 'play list' with extra options in the showreel.
I also really like the unique way you can send me a postcard!
I hope you enjoy my "journal"!
www.joannabessey.com
Jo B.

At the Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg, Florida

Food and Fashion! New episode in the last of the series of Exploring Malaysia on BBC World News

2009-04-16T13:56:00.000-07:00

Joanna's aqua-coloured top is by Kenneth Hoong (whom she interviews in the program!)

It's been a crazy busy week for me but I also managed to have a little time to catch up with old friends and hear from friends from around the world who have managed to catch the series so far. It's been so exciting to get feedback from places as far away from each other as Italy, Australia and the US! I'm thrilled people have liked it so much, so far.

I hope you manage to catch the last in the series this weekend and catch a glimpse of how the Iban cook and also see me cooking live crabs on the famous Jalan Alor!

Please click on the link to BBC World News to find the scheduled air times in your part of the world.
It also looks like astro.com.my is running a competition with a chance for you to win a trip to London and tour the BBC studios! All you have to do is name a city that I travel to in series. Let me know if you win?? And bring me back some English chocolate please!

More details on Exploring Malaysia competition:

1 Grand Prize consists of:
- A pair of Business Class air tickets (KL-LDN-KL)
- 2 nights accommodation (twin-sharing)
- A pair of tickets to the BBC Tour of Television Centre while in London

10 Consolation Prizes consist of:
- BBC World News goodie bag consisting of a notebook, pen and thumbdrive

This contest ends April 24, 2009

New episode of Exploring Malaysia on BBC World News

2009-04-10T23:51:00.000-07:00

Please click on the link to check out the air times for the time-zone in your part of the world and check out the new episode with the theme of Architecture.

I hope you enjoyed last week's episode on Nature, and if you did, you will also like the follow through of the theme of heritage in this week's episode.

We had fun shooting this in places like Malacca, Penang and Kuala Lumpur and I even got to sing in this episode!

I hope you like it!

http://www.bbcworldnews.com/Pages/Programme.aspx?id=264

Adventure packing check-list

2009-03-30T14:47:00.000-07:00

Packing for travel on the road is rarely easy. Deciding what or what not to bring gets even tougher with the stricter weight restrictions on airlines!

So packing for work on something like a travel documentary shoot or a media trip into the rainforest was even more challenging! But although I had to laugh at myself for often being over-prepared, it did make me feel more secure. Hee hee! And feeling more secure, I was ready to get into the great spirit of adventure!

My “Exploring Malaysia” shoot was an intense and amazing experience. Something I have since been doing a lot more of than usual, just for fun! So if you ever get the urge to go on an adventure and start off on something like a great jungle or nature trek, here’s a list of what I found useful:

· Non-cotton hiking clothes (reduces sweat evaporation & dehydration)

· Small back-pack or bum-bag

· Salt & potassium tablets, small bottle water

· Mini-size Minyak Kapak or salt for the leeches

· Plasters & anti-septic ointment

· Sunblock (natural type better if going in sea to protect marine-life)

· Long socks & good hiking boots

· Hat and sunglasses (hat is also great for rain)

· Since I’m short-sighted, Acuvue Oasys contact lenses which can be worn comfortably for long periods of time, letting through a lot more oxygen. And for overnight stays in places like the jungle chalets in Belum-Temenggor rainforest, I used Acuvue Moist daily-disposable lenses, which I could just throw away, replace & not worry about cleaning.

· Digital camera + spare battery, kept dry in a small tupperware

· Travel-size packet of tissues, wet-wipes &/or sanitizer (for conditions without water)

· Energizing snack, like an apple or energy-bar etc.

· My mini-size Evian facial spray

· Water sterilizing tablets

· Disposable plastic mackintosh/raincoat

Although surprisingly in primary rainforest (real jungle), mosquitoes were never a problem (eco-system is balanced), other than that, my motto is that one can never have too much anti-mozzy supplies for where you may be camping out. Which items depend on whether you’re staying in a hut, jungle chalet, Long-house or Resort. I had to be prepared for all so I brought:

· Mosquito spray (water-based)

· Mosquito repellent (natural-type, spray or stick)

· Mosquito repellent, circular stick-on patch

· Mosquito coils and travel-size plug-in mats

It’s safer and informative to trek with a guide and it’s always great when he/she has a good relationship with the villages of indigenous tribes who you can ask to visit. If you do plan to visit, make sure you are invited and bring a gift. A bag of rice, snacks, biscuits and any useful supplies etc. will always be appreciated and is a good exchange for your visit.

Happy adventuring!

Catch "Exploring Malaysia" on BBC World News (Astro channel 512) beginning 4th April 2009!

BBC World Programme "Exploring Malaysia" with Joanna Bessey

2009-03-21T13:28:00.001-07:00

Exploring Malaysia is not simply a travel show, although eager globe trotters will be inspired.

This three-part series, presented by Malaysian actress and environmentalist Joanna Bessey, gives viewers an insider's track on the people, the places and the tastes of Malaysia as the country emerges into the 21st Century.

Look out for it on BBC World news (Astro 512), starting 4 April 2009.

BBC World News, is the BBC's commercially funded international 24-hour news and information channel reaching 283 million homes and more than 1.6 million hotel rooms, in over 200 countries and territories worldwide.

Voice Over in the Studio

2009-02-25T17:57:00.000-08:00

Joanna working on a VoiceOver track in Singapore recently for a documentary she's been working on.

Look out for details to be posted here...... :)

Mini-Drama workshop in St Louis

2009-02-09T10:18:00.000-08:00

St Louis, Missouri is biting cold at this time of year! Just walking from the parking lot (American for carpark) to any location, I though even my teeth were going to freeze off! And this is with layers of long-johns, woolly-socks, sweaters, coats, scarves, gloves and hats! Fortunately it was really nice and cosy indoors though, especially at Applied Scholastics International, where my sister is now working on their literacy programs, teaching children how to read with phonetics. So while I visited her, I had fun doing another children's drama workshop with the budding actors in their Learning Center. The challenge was working with a group whose age ranged from 4years to 15! So picking the right drama games and activity was tricky. We had a lot of fun though and I could see some good emerging talent!

Heidi Vogel at No Black Tie with Valtinho

2009-01-25T13:13:00.000-08:00

Heidi and Valtinho Shantini and Paul.
Roslan, Joanna B. and Joanne Kam.

Heidi, Valtinho, Joanna and Evelyn.
Heidi, Valtinho and the rest of the musicians, Willy Rebano, Norman and Rik Omar were simply quite fantastic!

Heidi really blew everyone away with her incredible voice and powerful emotional impact. It's no wonder she's been touring Jazz festivals all over the world, performed at the Royal Albert Hall and has been the singer for the Cinematic Orchestra for the past two years.
It was a really, really special night at No Black Tie; a full house and the audience was almost in shock, being uplifted by the sublime. Seriously, I was so awed and proud of Heidi. We've been really good friends since we were kids and it was so fabulous to finally have her here in Malaysia.

The Cinematic Orchestra just finished touring in Australia but they'll be in Singapore, at the Esplanade on 20th March 2009!

Hear Heidi Vogel LIVE!

2009-01-09T12:11:00.000-08:00

Not to be missed! She's probably one of my favourite singers, ever! And she'll be dropping by in town next week! En route to Australia, meet her at No Black Tie on the 15th January. Check out website for details. See you there!

Heidi Vogel

Heidi has toured with the Cinematic Orchestra for 2 years. She has appeared Live on JIMMY KIMMEL Show on ABC.

Festival played include: FUJI Rock Festival-Japan. Big Chill-U.K. Blue Note-Belgium. Central Park-NYC. Heidi has also toured with the Brand New Heavies,TY, Alex Wilson to name a few.

Vocalist for the Cinematic Orchestra on 2008 album Live At The Royal Albert Hall.

Her writing credits include tracks with Bob Sinclair, Lil Louis Vega, DJ Vadim, and labels such as Kandid Records, Ninja Tune, Defected, Africanism, with which she has featured on and written a lot of music. Her first Number One for DJ Hypechart was on the house label MN2S "Inside My Soul". As well as large concerts and festivals, she has played in many renowned jazz venues around the world.

Her music fuses Jazz, Brazilian music and raw soul in a unique, fresh and inspiring way.

NST Sunday article on the trip to Belum and Temenggor Rainforest.

2009-01-09T11:57:00.000-08:00

Check out the article on NST online with the nice pics at:

http://nst.com.my/Current_News/NST/Sunday/Focus/2441166/Article/index_html?query_start=6&query=%27%27

NST Online » Focus
2009/01/03
Spotlight: 'Belum' a jurassic wonder
CHAI MEI LING

A total of 80 forested islands on 45,000ha of waterbodies make up the Belum-Temenggor forest complex. (source: MNS)

You might have heard stories of its beauty.
And you might have seen the damage wrought on it by logging. You could have even thrown your support, alongside scores of Malaysians, behind the Save Belum-Temenggor campaign two years ago. Don’t stop, for the journey is half travelled. If anything, your backing is needed now more than ever, writes CHAI MEI LING

Celebrity Joanna Bessey (left) and Molly Fong, West Malaysia general manager The Body Shop, applying as natural lipsticks the red colouring produced by a rambutan-liked, heart-shaped fruit.

Each year, thousands of Plain-pouched Hornbills fly across Temenggor — a phenomenon not seen anywhere else on earth. Logging, however, is seriously threatening hornbills in the area, which require specialised diet and cannot persist in small forest patches. (source: MNS/Ooi Beng Yean)
Each year, thousands of Plain-pouched Hornbills fly across Temenggor — a phenomenon not seen anywhere else on earth. Logging, however, is seriously threatening hornbills in the area, which require specialised diet and cannot persist in small forest patches. (source: MNS/Ooi Beng Yean)
WE watched in silence. First, in awe, at the astounding view of the vast body of water that makes the Temenggor Lake, locked in like a bowl of broth, by the emerald waves of mountaintops.

And then at logs. Logs with diameter twice a man's arm length, chained onto trucks snaking down the opposite lane of the winding East-West Highway in Gerik.

In our 45-minute ascent along the highway to the public jetty in Pulau Banding, the main gateway to the forest located somewhere in the middle of the giant lake, at least five trucks were spotted pregnant with freshly felled logs.

It was harder to pinpoint the feeling that came with the latter sight.
The contrasting welcome, of inviting greenery on one side and red, barren hill slopes on the other, invoked sadness and anger, a bit of bitterness perhaps.

For corporate figure and activist Molly Fong, it was "injustice".

"I felt angry. I felt a sense of injustice, the feeling that this is not right,"Fong, the general manager of The Body Shop, West Malaysia, pointed out later into the journey.

Organised by environmental group Malaysian Nature Society and funded by The Body Shop, the trip was a maiden voyage into the ancient rainforest of northern Perak for most of the media personnel and The Body Shop people present, Fong including.

It was not hard to understand Fong's disappointment.

For two years now, the British cosmetics and toiletry brand has backed MNS's cmpaign for the protection of the 300,000ha Belum-Temenggor forest complex, an area four times Singapore's size.

A natural jewel in Malaysia's heirloom, it is the largest continuous forest complex in Peninsular Malaysia, stretching all the way from Perak up into southern Thailand.

Over 3,000 species of flowering plants, some 270 species of birds, and more than 100 species of mammals, including heavyweights like the Asian Elephant, Malayan Tiger, Sumatran Rhinoceros, Malayan Tapir, leopard and sun bear, call it their home.

It is also only in Belum-Temenggor that all 10 hornbill species of Malaysia can be found, including the globally threatened Plain-pouched Hornbill, present in large flocks of over 3,000 birds.

This phenomenon, said MNS head of communications Andrew Sebastian, doesn't occur anywhere else in the world.

"Imagine, 3,000 Plain-pouched flying over a period of two weeks. You can sit here and look at them for hours on end."

Biodiversity is not the only area the forest is rich in.

At 130 million years old, Belum-Temenggor is more ancient even than the jungles of the Amazon or Congo.

Palm-like plants of the Cycas genus, a native of the Old World and often considered as a living fossil, hung gallantly on the cliffs of towering limestone hills, as a testament to the forest's ancient existence, perhaps.

Saad Hashim, our nature guide during the trip, good-humouredly described the plants as "dinosaur food", much to the amazement of our wide-eyed team.

These are just some of the many wonders of Belum-Temenggor documented by MNS in its two, never-before-done scientific expeditions in 1994 and 1998.

These same wonders were also conveyed by The Body Shop employees to every client who walked into the stores during the MNS Belum-Temenggor Postcard Campaign two years ago.

In just two months, 80,000 postcards on the need for the protection of the forest, addressed to the Prime Minister and Perak's then chief minister, were signed by the people.

This, and many more lobbying efforts, finally led to the Royal Belum State Park May being gazetted last year by the state government.

A total of 117,500 ha has been put aside, with no further logging activities.

That was as good as it got.

While MNS was extremely pleased with the gesture, noting at once how much of short-term revenue the state had decided to forgo by making logging off-limit in Royal Belum, the area gazetted summed up to only about a quarter of the total area lobbied for.

The rest -- Gerik and Temenggor forest reserves -- was left on its own to fend off logging advances.

"We're not saying logging should be stopped immediately. Of course we need wood and we're sitting on chairs and at tables, but logging should be done sustainably, not at the expense of natural forests," said Sebastian.

The previous state government had said that logging in Temenggor would be phased out by 2009, but without proper protocol and control, this is as good as saying that loggers are welcomed to harvest as much timber as possible up until end of this year.

And oil palm plantations, said Sebastian, have increasingly cropped up in post-harvested areas, where forest regeneration should have been done.

Currently, MNS is trying to engage with the present state government to have Temenggor accorded a protected status as well, but the group cannot do this alone.

"Malaysians, a lot more than the few of us, need to know that Belum-Temenggor exists and that it needs to be saved as one, not only Belum, but as Belum and Temenggor.

"Big wildlife like the elephants and rhinoceros cannot stay in one area, they must migrate for survival. So big forest tracts have to be protected," he said.

The Body Shop in West Malaysia continues to back MNS through in-store awareness activities and fund-raising efforts to garner support from the public.

Its Kick The Bag Habit campaign alone early this year managed to get over RM90,000 for this cause.

Joanna Bessey, celebrity and Save Belum-Temenggor campaign ambassador, calls for Malaysians to rally once again for Mother Nature.

"Phase 1 of the campaign succeeded because of people power. I believe we can do the same for Temenggor.

"Something that's 130 million years cannot be grown back. You cannot replant it and think that it's going to come back. It doesn't."

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-25T11:36:00.000-08:00

HAPPY HOLIDAYS EVERYONE!!!

I had fun starting Christmas Day doing a guest appearance on live television, on "Wanita Hari Ini" or "Women Today". It was nice to hear a Malaysian Carol Choir too.

I hope you all had a wonderful day celebrating with friends and family and best wishes for the new year 2009!

20th Dec. Drama Workshop for Adults at KLPAC

2008-12-25T11:24:00.000-08:00

I had fun conducting a very productive drama workshop for adults at KLPAC recently. We have some exciting new actors and I look forward to their professional work!

Malaysian Nature Society trip to Belum and Temenggor Rainforest

2008-11-25T00:30:00.000-08:00

Last week I went on an MNS trip with the Body Shop and members of the media to the quite stunning rainforest complex, about 4 hours north of KL by car.

The highlights were staying on a tiny island, seeing the amazing variety and beauty of rainforest trees, getting leeched, hiking to the animal salt lick and seeing a bull elephant in the wild!

Tragically I also witnessed the totally non-sustainable logging techniques that wipes the 130 million year old eco-system, off the face of the planet. And the speed with which it is being done. At the moment, since the logging is supposed to phase out by end of 2008, the logging is going on 24hours a day. Considering this rainforest existed even BEFORE dinosaurs roamed the earth, the implications of destroying it for short-term profit, benefitting relatively few, are tremendously serious.

Take action to protect it, before the gifts of air quality and clean, fresh water, benefitting the WORLD, worsen further. At a time when many countries are suffering from drought, we are truly blessed to have our Rainforest.

Exploring Malaysia with BBC World!

2008-11-12T09:35:00.000-08:00

Check out exclusive, behind-the-scene photos of the shoot Joanna has been working on for BBC World. See our stunning and fascinating country, as never before!

Some stories of what it was like and more pics to follow soon!

Sun Bear Fundraiser Dinner

2008-11-11T12:24:00.000-08:00

We raised just over 1.3 million that night for the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre!

The Fundraising Dinner ended up being a great success! Check out: http://sunbears.wildlifedirect.org/2008/11/14/yes-we-did-it-thank-you-thank-you-and-thank-you/

Well done to all the donors and organisers! It was a fun evening!

Lend your support to our endangered Malayan Sun Bears! Protect rather than regret!
Conserve their habitat in the wild, for their sakes and ours.

Style magazine October issue

2008-10-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

Joanna is also featured in this month's Style magazine as an "eco-warrior" in the article 'Green Talk'. Find out what she and 3 other personalities have to say about our environmental issues and why going "Green" is so IN!

For behind the scenes photos of these photo shoots, check out Joanna Bessey's page on Facebook.

Health & Beauty magazine October issue

2008-10-08T09:56:00.000-07:00

Check out this month's interview with Joanna in "Health & Beauty" magazine. A good personal insight into her life, from her favourite TV show to what she finds sexy.

Selamat Hari Raya!

2008-10-04T00:00:00.000-07:00

I hope you all had a great Raya! I've had a very busy time and I also just got back from the U.S.

I had a great time seeing all my family and my mum and I also had open house on the first and second day.

Have a great Raya Aidilfitri!

3-day Drama Workshop for Children

2008-08-02T11:58:00.000-07:00

As usual, for the school holidays, the KLPAC academy has a lovely programme for young persons of all ages.

The workshop I shall be conducting runs 18,19 and 20th August from 10am-12pm. This time I shall be conducting the workshop for 7-12 year olds. It's going to be fun!

Call 03-4047-9060 to sign up / for details go to above link or www.klpac.com

Joanna pictured recently at the NTV 7 10th Anniversary party.

No Plastic Bag Concert

2008-08-02T11:30:00.000-07:00

Photo by Alex Moi

An eclectic night of performances (from violin playing to stand-up comedy to music and fashion) all for a great cause in DOing something about taking care of our planet. And hopefully eliminating our terrible bad habit of excessive use of plastic!

We had some fantastic singers and great performances. I read some poetry.

You can also check out who was behind the concert and more about the subject at the link above or at:
http://therecyclists.blogspot.com

"No Limits"..........Backstage!!! ;P

2008-07-16T09:53:00.000-07:00

Wow! No Limits the musical was quite an experience and a fairly long journey, in terms of regular Malaysian theatre, as we were all involved in the process since March.
A launched&large-scale preview, lots of very late nights, long tech-rehearsals, many re-writes of the script and five months later, we finally arrived into performance mode at Plenary Hall, Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), which is a theatre that has a total seating capacity of three thousand!

Joanna and KK Wong

Box office was also unusual because the shows were mostly bought up by 'corporates' and the public only had access to a limited number of free tickets online. But since the theme of the musical was futuristic, I suppose this experimental method was apt. The only downside to this was that despite being already "sold out" and having pretty good audience numbers, it was never actually packed out.

Advertised as a Sci-Fi, Pop musical with lots of '80s songs, it promised nothing more than fun and light entertainment, as do most musicals. However, being bi-lingual, most of the sarcasm and humour was in Cantonese. So a few of my discerning, theatre-stalwart friends were sorely disappointed. Especially the non-Chinese speaking ones and understandably so. So I was really pleasantly surprised when a lot of the feedback from many others was very good! Being under no illusions, actually I was quite shocked. A lot of people and their kids had fun and really enjoyed it.

Tin, Joanna, Bella and Gloria Ting

I must confess that I myself, as an audience viewer, have never been the hugest fan of the Musical genre, but I've definitely caught the bug of enjoying being in one and the spirit of levity which it imposes! From the O.T.T. big acting (which I used to shudder at), to singing, dancing and outlandish make-up, I must say, despite the stress and set-backs of production that we inevitably had to deal with, I haven't laughed so hard during rehearsal and back-stage in a long time! Of course, having a great bunch of actors to work with really helped. A lovely cast and crew all round really (surprising as the cast, dancers, musicians, directors and crew amounted to a pretty huge group).

Having started in the theatre at the age of eleven, with twenty years of experience, but having only ever performed in a handful of musicals, I thought of myself as a very "serious" theatre actor. I even approached comedy very seriously. I mean I've spent years studying the art and various techniques with great discipline.....
BUT... the fact that, being complimented on my silly Britney Spears impression, to my cute-sy lovey-dovey scenes with Christopher, singing ability/bursting into song for no apparent reason, abnormally long eye-lashes, my cleavage-inducing corset to a rapper friend of mine even complimenting me on my dancing (?!); the fact that ALL of this still makes me chuckle happily to myself.....only proves that I'm just a much of a ham as the rest of them! There's just no denying it...

Gloria Ting, Mary George & Joanna (middle)

Some of LiT Performers(R)

Fabulous daaaarrling, fabulous. Love it!

Joanna & Malik Taufik (below)

"Acuvue Oasys" & "Seeing Victory" -Olympics Launch

2008-07-16T09:06:00.000-07:00

Recently, following the launch of Johnson &Johnson Vision Care's Acuvue Oasys with Hydraclear Plus, in Malaysia, Joanna also emceed their "Seeing Victory- Towards Beijing 2008 Olympic Games" event, earlier this month and got to meet two of our Olympic athletes!

Daniel Bego from swimming and Hasli Izwan Amir Hassan from shooting.
We wish our athletes all the best for the upcoming Olympic Games!!

Nickelodeon - Let's Just Play! event

2008-07-16T08:27:00.000-07:00

I had a lot of fun co-hosting the Let's Just Play carnival, in Cyberjaya recently. I got a little sun-burnt and it was swelteringly hot, being out in the sun for 8 hours, but the Nickelodeon team and the children who turned up and took part in all the games made it great fun!

I thought it was also a wonderful idea to arrange events such as this, to remind kids to go outside and play, rather than only watching TV. In fact during the times of these events, the Nickelodeon channel did not air any shows, but just had prompts on screen to get kids to go outside and play, in Malaysia, Singapore and Philippines.

And in many ways, with all the adults running around with water-pistols and getting soaked, I think some of them had more fun than the children! :D

No Limits- the musical, get free tickets!

2008-06-19T11:36:00.000-07:00

NO LIMITS

Date	:	11-13 July 2008
Time	:	2030 hours
Venue	:	Plenary Hall, KL Convention Centre

Get free tickets to see the Sci-Fi musical. Just go to www.accord.com.my and after skip intro just follow the instructions and get your tickets for free!
The musical is set in the near future when an electro-magnetic charge has wiped everyone's memories. With one exception, Moon. Her quest is to restore everyone's memories but a battle for mind control ensues through 80's songs!
I play Sim and with Christopher (played by Malik Taufik) we are Moon's right-hand men/(woman).
The cast includes Mary George (as Moon), Joanna Bessey, Malik Taufik, Gloria Ting, KK Wong, the LiT Performormers, Kwantung Dancers and many more.

Nickelodeon Event- Dora's Pirate Adventure

2008-06-15T12:28:00.001-07:00

Hosting the Nickelodeon events in Penang and KL last week, with loads of fun "Nicksters"!

‘GO GREEN - Get To Grips With Climate Change’

2008-06-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

5th of June was World Environment day and 1-utama has a Go Green campaign on until the 8th, but I'm sure you'll notice a lot going on about our environment awareness this whole month. (Check out my interview in this month's, June, Women's Weekly magazine.)

For this particular campaign at 1-Utama (new wing- Highstreet) I was the Go Green Ambassador under UNDP.

Thanks to all the friends who came to support and I've included my speech for the launch which was attended by Yang Berhormat Datuk Ong Ka Chuan, Housing and Local Government Minister and Y.Bhg. Dato’ Teo Chiang Kok, 1 Utama Director. Plus there were some really great performances by Charms cheerleading squad, Tree Theatre Group and a eco-percussion group YAWA (which I only got to watch from a distance while we were in the press conference- wish I had been watching properly!)

United Nations Development Programme

Speech

Launch of World Environment Day 2008 -

“Go GREEN -

Get to Grips with Climate Change”

Joanna Bessey

Actress & Director

UNDP Celebrity Partner

5 June 2008

1 Utama, Shopping Centre, Petaling Jaya

GO GREEN - Get To Grips With Climate Change

Yang Berhormat Datuk Ong Ka Chuan, Housing and Local Government Minister

Y.Bhg. Dato’ Teo Chiang Kok, 1 Utama Director

Distinguished guests

Members of the media

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good afternoon,

As a concerned citizen of Malaysia, I am very happy to be here for the 2008 World Environment Day celebration at 1 Utama. It is a genuine pleasure to volunteer my time whenever possible, for causes I feel strongly about.

With a population of over 6 billion, how do we overcome the problem of sustaining our current lifestyle habits? The greatest challenge confronting us, mankind, in the 21^st Century is our sustainability on this planet and the global climate crisis. Climate change is not just an environmental issue. It is much more because it forces us to question the very foundation of the development that has shaped our world since the Great Industrial Revolution, including our addiction to oil.

The crisis we face today arises from the accumulated results of two centuries of unsustainable: industrial development, energy production, clearing of forests; unsustainable lifestyles and consumption patterns.

To put it another way, we have used the global atmosphere as a free good without consideration of the consequences.

We are already suffering the consequences of unsustainability now; flooding, landslides, over-flowing rubbish landfills, acid rain, haze, poisonous pollution and numerous “natural” disasters which affect also our economy.

Meanwhile, there is alarming and overwhelming scientific evidence that the world is moving toward the tipping point, at which irreversible ecological catastrophe and reversals in our (human) progress would be unavoidable.

Socially, the impacts are already being felt with economic dislocations across the world – from food riots in Haiti to the devastating destruction in Myanmar. And it is the poor who are hardest hit. But we all feel the impact, so there’s no time like the present to realize something can be done about it!

On this World Environment Day, the message which I bring to you, my fellow Malaysians, is that we are all part of the solution. You, as a consumer, have incredible power to create change. Whether you are an individual, a business or a government, there are many steps you can take to reduce your ecological footprint. It is message we all must take to heart.

Around the world, nations are looking afresh at green options. Here in Malaysia, I feel we are beginning to do the same. However, we sorely lack real action.

Our ecological footprint, as human beings, is a measure of how much energy and resources we consume to sustain ourselves, compared with nature’s ability to renew these resources.

Every action we take, from where we build our house, to how we supply ourselves with water and electricity, every tree we cut, how much we drive our cars, whether or not we recycle etc., all has an affect on our environment. As the Malay proverb goes, "Though a tree grows so high, the falling leaves return to the root."

Just as no one is immune from the adverse impacts of climate change, no one is exempt from responsibility. The latest UNDP Human Development Report states that with 0.4% of the world's population, Malaysia accounts for 0.6% of global emissions - an average of 7.5 tons of CO₂ per person. This means that the carbon footprint of the average Malaysian is now larger than that of France. If all countries in the world were to emit CO₂ at similar levels, we would exceed our sustainable carbon budget by approximately 237%!

So what can we do about it?

At the policy level, tackling climate change requires us to put a premium on environmental conservation. Halting the destruction of our rainforests, home access for recycling, tax incentives to purchase a hybrid or bio-fuel car and environmentally friendly products. Legislation for retailers that requires them to take back unwanted packaging, encouraging the use of eco-friendly packaging such as palm oil husk product, instead of polystyrene and plastic, are but some examples.

At the individual level, it requires us to make a wholehearted commitment to going green, which doesn’t necessarily mean going without, but entails making thoughtful and deliberate choices as consumers to reduce our harmful impact and practice sustainable consumption. Energy saving light-bulbs for example; efficient and minimizes waste.

The production, processing, transportation, and packaging of the food we consume, can all contribute to environmental damage. Buying locally produced products is already lowering your ecological footprint because of the reduction of transportation.

When you buy green products you show the corporations who make them, that our environment is important to you. As consumer- behaviour gets greener, product manufacturers will respond by making more of their products better for the environment.

This trend in moral responsibility in consumerism has much potential to grow in Malaysia. I reject plastic whenever possible and bring my own shopping bags. In my family we separate and recycle all our rubbish, we keep our water and electricity consumption low, run lower-fuel consumption vehicles, we buy organic and environmentally friendly products; for example all our organic chicken, fish and vegetables come from a farm only an hour away. Due to demand, it is now a neighbourhood shop.

We have found this relatively easy and simple, except for the availability of recycling disposal in neighbourhoods, so it could be easier for every household if the government and private sector gets involved and implements actions for Green consumerism, which includes not just what we buy, but also how we live.

Good planets are hard to find. Actions taken—or not taken— right now, will have a profound bearing on our future. If we continue on our current course of oil-driven economic growth and carbon-intensive lifestyles, we unfortunately, have no where else to go.

On this World Environment Day, I urge the private sector, state and national governments, and all citizens to seize this opportunity to promote urgent and lasting action. The world cannot wait another ten or twenty years in theoretical debates and political negotiations. Whatever else divides us, humanity shares a single planet.

No matter what you’re religion, I’m sure many of us would like to be free to reach greater enlightenment in knowledge and spiritually be more at peace; we cannot do this if our earth cannot sustain us. Let us work together to truly make Malaysia “Green” with an ecological footprint that is sustainable for all our future generations to come.

Relay for Life- 31st May 2008

2008-06-07T09:52:00.000-07:00

LUMINARIA CEREMONY
Torch Bearers
'Celebrities Give Back'
We all know a cancer survivor, and unfortunately we all also know a cancer victim. The Relay For Life is to create awareness and raise funds to fight cancer.
It started with the Survivors' Lap by cancer survivors, and later at sunset, the celebrities led the Luminaria Ceremony. This was to honour the survivors and remember those who didn't make it. It was a very moving ceremony.
The event lasted for 12 hours with games, dancing, performances and alot more!

Acting Class for Young Adults at KLPAC

2008-05-29T03:30:00.000-07:00

A couple of pics of some of my students who just completed their 7 week scene study class with me at KLPAC. They all worked very hard and did extremely well. I'm proud of you guys! Well done. Lv, Joanna

Boh Cameronian Arts Awards

2008-05-20T01:26:00.000-07:00

Pics on the Awards night. Joanna was nominated in the 'Best Director' category. It was a fun night!
The theme was to dress as your hero and Joanna's hair was inspired by Aung San Suu Kyi, leader of the nonviolent movement for human rights and democracy in Burma (Myanmar), and her costume was inspired by Tun Fatimah/ her mum (pictured here in the centre).

Deal or No Deal!

2008-05-20T01:02:00.000-07:00

Joanna recently got to play on the game show Deal or No Deal in a special celebrity episode for charity. Joanna made it through for the second round and stood the chance to win up to $100,000 for her favourite charity; the "Save Belum-Temenggor" rainforest campaign with Malaysian Nature Society!
Look out for the episode in the future but we'll keep you posted when we know the air date.

Joanna Bessey nominated for Best Director- Boh Cameronian Arts Awards

2008-04-18T19:16:00.000-07:00

I've been nominated for 'Best Director' for my directorial debut last year, Ibsen's 'An Enemy of the People'. I love this photo of Zalfian Fuzi, Christina Orow, Megat and other cast members during the play, taken by 'Kelab Shashin'. If you click and look up close, it's slightly blurry (being an action shot) but everyone has such interesting expressions on their faces.
It's exciting to be nominated and I was very surprised. I found out a few weeks ago when I got a lovely text message from Zahim Albakri congratulating me and saying it was well deserved. He's also been nominated this year, along with Adlin Aman Ramlie for 'P. Ramlee- the musical'. It meant a lot to me that Zahim had enjoyed my play.
So that's how I found out, text message! Zahim and a few other friends sent text messages when the nominees came out. Up until that point I had no idea and had kind of forgotten about it. So it was a yummy surprise. :)

Actor Olympics Idol!

2008-03-27T12:49:00.000-07:00

Actor Olympics live is back! At Actors Studio, Bangsar Shopping Centre, from 2nd - 6th April. Participate and watch live, improv comedy and have a good laugh!
Call the box office 03-2094-0400 for more details.
See ya there!

Malaysian Talents.Com

2008-03-27T12:46:00.000-07:00

Heya! I thought you might like to see a show I'm in a couple of episodes in that's quite funny. It's online so you can watch it while on the computer! And if you're abroad outside of Malaysia, this is a great way to see a Malaysian show created by Douglas Lim.

The show is called "Malaysian Talents.com" and it's humour is ala The Office and Extras style. It's been made especially for the website
www.gua.com.my which comes under TV3 here. I'm in the last two episodes 19 and 20, but you can watch every episode online I believe. I play a sickly-sweet-bitchier version of myself.

Go to www.gua.com.my and hover above VIDEO and then click on GUA TV, then you'll see the show listed. Or try this link which should take you straight to the right page: http://www.gua.com.my/Video/Web-Exclusives.aspx

It's not on the home page anymore as it's the end of the season. Check it out before they take it off!

Malaysian Talents dot Com

2008-01-15T02:51:00.000-08:00

Check out this hilarious new show by Douglas Lim online! Download the episodes for free on www.gua.com.my
OK, I didn't have a photo of the show from being on the set, but just check out the website. This photo is a recent one of Douglas and I in "Aladdin".
The humour is sort of a mixture between The Office and Extras but Malaysian style. The first episodes premieres on the 15th Jan. 2008 and I star in the season finale as a bitchier version of myself! There are two new episodes every week, starting on 15th Jan. and my episodes are number 19&20, so you'll be able to watch them about the week of the 18th of March. In the meantime catch a whole bunch of other stars and your favourite actors in this very funny series, in which everyone makes fun of themselves!

Actor Olympics- The TV show!

2008-01-02T12:59:00.000-08:00

If you enjoyed watching us live in Actor Olympics on stage, or if you never had the chance, now you can see us playing these hilarious games on TV! Catch 'Actor Olympics' every Wednesday night at 9pm on NTV7, starting on the 16th January 2008! Starring Adflin Shauki, Nell Ng, Douglas Lim, Reza Zainal Abidin and lots of your other favourite actors, including Joanna Bessey. 'Who's Line is it Anyway' type comedy ala Malaysian style! See us all break a sweat doing live improv theatre sports, caught on camera, in front of a live studio audience!

Aladdin- the Pantomime!

2007-12-27T01:28:00.000-08:00

Presented by The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPac)

Directed by: Paul Loosley

FEATURING:

Indi Nadarajah, Douglas Lim, Joanna Bessey, Chacko Vadaketh,

Doreen Tang, Joanne Kam, Monti, Nell Ng, Sham Sunder Binwani

& introducing Badrol Shah Manan

17 - 22 & 26 - 29 December 2007; 2 - 5 January 2008 @ 8.30pm

23 & 30 December 2007; 6 January 2008 @ 3pm

1 January 2008 @ 5pm

Pentas 1, KLPac (Click here for location map & information on public transport)

RM100, RM80, RM60 or RM40 (students, sr. citizens & the disabled)

And because it was 40 years ago today that Sgt. Pepper taught the band to play, we pay homage to the wonderful music of The Beatles and the swinging sixties with mini skirts, steaming hot pants, suitably hippy kaftans, Mary Quant dresses and far-out haircuts. Cheering and booing will be expected (naturally) and there'll be lots of free sweets and a fancy dress contest for kids!

So bring all your friends aboard and sail with us to a magical mystery world of head-spinning, psychedelic fun as the band begins to play...

Check out our fabulously festive ticket PROMOTIONS!

FAMILY PACKAGE:

RM150 for four pax (2 adults & 2 children);

RM40 for each additional family member

For Tuesday - Thursday shows:

RM60 and RM40 (students, senior citizens & the disabled)

AND an additional 10% discount for Friends of KLPac members!

Hurry, call (KLPac) 03-4047 9000 or

(The Actors Studio @ BSC) 03-2094 9400 for tickets NOW!

www.klpac.com

TEEN ACTING WORKSHOP!

2007-11-06T03:16:00.000-08:00

Ever feel nervous in front of an audience, like you're walking on ice??!

I have a new acting workshop for 13-18 year olds coming up this month at KLPAC on 19-21 November 2007.

Learn some basic acting techniques to help you overcome your fears and be on your way to becoming a great actor.

Acting Workshop for Kids!

2007-08-17T02:15:00.000-07:00

Another acting workshop for kids is coming up on the 22-24th August 2007, 10am-1pm, in the academy at KLPAC (Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre). Call 03-4047-9060 to sign up! / for details.

Enemy of the People- photos

2007-08-17T02:10:00.000-07:00

Check out some photos I uploaded of some rehearsal photos of the recent staging of "An Enemy of the People" at KLPAC in my "directorial debut- in rehearsal" photo album.
www.myspace.com/joannabessey

Enemy of the People at KLPAC

2007-07-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

Here are the newer versions of the poster for the play that I thought you'd like to get a look at. The inspiration for this "propaganda" look, was from my good friend Rowan in LA. From there Gary at KLPAC designed this very striking poster. It is sort of a propaganda poster in reverse, because normally these posters depict workers striving forward with everyone behind them following suit, whereas in this case the main figure is surrounded by an angry/questioning mob. I like.......

Ibsen's "An Enemy of the People"

2007-07-22T20:20:00.000-07:00

Well, a lot has happened in my life since my last post, including the Cameronian awards and the film "Waris Jari Hantu" which I was in screened in the cinemas (I shall post some pics soon!) but I have been consumed with my directorial debut Arthur Miller's version of Henrik Ibsen's "An Enemy of the People". We have been rehearsing like mad, at least as the director, I have been in rehearsal at least 6 days a week for the last 2 months and was in pre-production before that. Although it's incredibly hard work, it's also fun in the fullest sense of the word. This is one of my all time favourite plays and it has been such an exciting process. I started auditioning and casting for this in February.... I think! I have a fantastic cast, including Zalfian Fuzi as the lead, Na'a Murad, Christina Orow, Ng U-en, Cheryl Tan, David Lim, Ari Ratos, Razif etc. etc. It's a cast of 18! Very challenging and incredibly exciting. It will be staged at KLPAC from 4th to 12th August 2007, in Pentas 2 as the first in a series of three plays in the Black Box Festival. If you've never read or seen this play before, it's fantastic social satire with exquisite humour. I am taking this classic piece and all it's still current and relevant issues (it was written in 1882!) and giving it an experimental treatment with a twist. Come and let the actors inject you with their energy and let Ibsen accelerate your mind into fifth gear!

The Boh Cameronian Arts Awards 2006

2007-03-04T23:43:00.000-08:00

I've been nominated! Yay!
At the Boh Cameronian Arts Awards 2006 for "Best Actor in a Supporting Role" : Joanna Bessey for The Fastest Clock in the Universe, written by Philip Ridley, directed by Joe Hasham, presented by The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre.

It's nice and exciting to be nominated, especially after working hard on and enjoying this particular play. It also feels very encouraging after working professionally in theatre for the past 10 years!

Check out all the other nominations at kakiseni.com (but you have to register first, for free).

2007-03-04T02:05:00.000-08:00

Joanna in a recent shot taken by photographer Alton Chan at the "What Women Want" reality tv show finale party, sporting her new hair colour for the film "1957" which she is currently shooting.

Mystery Six - On the Set

2007-02-25T10:23:00.000-08:00

Check out the new TV show I'm in as a regular guest star, Mystery 6! Every Sunday afternoon at 4:30pm on TV2. It's about a bunch of teens who go around solving crimes and mysteries in Cybertown. I play an undercover agent! But who do I really work for??? "Cheng, cheng cheeeeeennngg!!"

X'mas in Europe- Flooding there too!

2007-02-05T18:45:00.000-08:00

My husband and I did a driving tour of England in December, visiting all my relatives. There was a surprising amount of flooding going on there too and it was quite mild, temperature wise, for winter time. These are photos of the beautiful lake district, near my aunt's house.
Has anyone seen that Al Gore film, "An Inconvenient Truth" ? It makes you think. We have to act fast if we want to reverse the climate change and prevent more worldwide flooding. What happened here in Malaysia was a disaster but during my month in Europe, I realised this is really a world wide phenomena that we need to confront now.

ACTING WORKSHOP FOR TEENS

2006-11-09T01:22:00.000-08:00

Heya, I'm doing an acting workshop at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (KLPAC), so if you, or someone you know is interested in becoming an actor, please take part!

I'll be teaching some basic techniques in how to become an actor, which will give you a good headstart into becoming a professional. I will be sharing and drawing upon different techniques that I have learnt from my years of studying in the UK and in Los Angeles. And of course from my own experience of working as a professional actor for the last ten years in television, theatre, film and commercials.

I am interested in teaching teens as I have already lectured young adults at University level (mostly at MMU) but I myself started in the theatre when I was 12, so why shouldn't others?

It's going to be fun discovering the artistic actor in YOU!

TEEN ACTING WORKSHOP with Joanna Bessey
Dates: 27 November – 1 December Ages: 13 – 17 years old Time: 2pm – 4pm
Course fee: RM160Registration: RM50Programme

Call (03) 4047 9060 /Email: academy@klpac.com or go to the KLPAC website for more info.

T-shirt & mug survey

2006-10-30T08:45:00.000-08:00

30th birthday pic.

SAVE THE MALAYSIAN RAINFOREST!

2006-09-25T11:03:00.000-07:00

Sick of the haze? Want clean air to breathe? Wonder why we are having so many flash floods and landslides? Why all the climate change? Natural disasters? There is something YOU can do about it! Sign the petition to save the Belum & Temenggor Rainforest in Perak which is 130million years old! Our rainforests absorb a great deal of rainwater and filter a lot of the excessive carbon dioxide emissions we produce everyday through driving, industry etc. 40% of the world's oxygen (what you're breathing this minute) comes from the rainforests of which Malaysia is privileged to still have. Belum and Temenggor is under threat from logging but you can sign the postcards available at all Body Shops (for this month of September 2006) or go to the Malaysian Nature Society website and sign online: www.mns.org.my Find out why more than 60,000 Malaysians have already signed in the last few months and make a difference by signing the petition. Our planet is counting on us to stop polluting it. We can still do something about it now before it is way too late and the planet becomes uninhabitable. Love Joanna ;D

2006-09-25T10:44:00.000-07:00

(At Matrixgirl's request!) Please let me know if you like this headshot and if not I'll exchange it for another one. :)
If you would like to see more photos, you can always check out the website at www.joannabessey.com

FENDI Exhibition

2006-09-18T19:17:00.000-07:00

Check out Joanna's and other celebrities' photos taken for FENDI, for the Palazzo showcase at the FENDI shop in Starhill, Bukit Bintang. 21st to 30th September (21st by invitation only) on the Adorn Level.
View the exhibit online at http://www.thephotographersgallery.com.my/exhibitions/?id=65

Appeton Achievers on NTV7

2006-09-18T19:14:00.000-07:00

Catch Joanna hosting a kids treasure hunt show, every Saturday starting 23rd September 2006 at 1pm on NTV7! This fun and exciting show is sort of a mini-version of the Amazing Race, but for kids!

It was also my one-year wedding anniversary! Here's one of my favourite wedding photos taken by the photographer Mark McQuade.

Screening 12 Sept. 2006

2006-08-25T02:31:00.000-07:00

MNS Green Carpet Charity Premier: on September 12th 2006 at KLCC TGV 11.00 am. Charity Premier of the documentary produced by NOVISTA titled 'Temengor - Biodiversity in the face of danger'

Photo of new play "The Two of Us"

2006-08-03T02:24:00.000-07:00

Where can you see her now?

2006-08-02T20:18:00.000-07:00

will currently be in a comedy play called the Two of Us. This play is a double bill with one part called Black and Silver starring Ari Ratos and Mary George. The second half of the double bill is called China Men starring Joanna Bessey along with costar Rashid Salleh. You can catch Joanna in this exciting comedy from the 10th of August to the 20th every night at 8:30 pm, expect Sunday the 13th and 20th which is at 3pm. The show will be at The Actors Studio in BSC. Watch the fun as you see Joanna in this quickfire plot when she changes from one character to the next.

Joanna Bessey

new singing classes and more!

So You Still Think You Can Act?? Sing? Dance?! Write Your Play?? 2012

School's Out, Musical Theatre's In! - Introducing our Teachers! Learn drama, singing and dance from our Musical Theatre experts!

School's Out, Musical Theatre's In! -Musical Theatre Workshop for Kids and Teens in Petaling Jaya!

my program on bbc knowledge

Directing Dreamgirls, the Broadway Musical

Love Journey 2 coming soon in April 2011! Busy end to 2010...

Heidi Vogel at Alexis Bistro, December shows

The re-run of Shout! -the musical!

Love Journey at KLPAC July-August

Love Journey with Joanna Bessey & Michael Veerapen

Michael Veerapen on BFM radio about "Love Journey"

2 New musicals for July 2010! "Shout!" and "Love Journey"

May Madness! Laugh Fest, Midsummer Nights Dream, No Black Tie and more!

Tickets- Early bird discount for "You Think You Can Mamak?"!

So You Think You Can Mamak? - PJLA Laugh Fest in May

"So You Think You Can Mamak?"

Upcoming One Act comedy play at the PJLA Laugh Fest, in Jaya One, Jalan University, Petaling Jaya.

5 performances:

30th April 8:30pm;

1st May 5pm & 8:30pm;

2nd May 3pm & 8:30pm.Starring: Na'a Murad, Bella Rahim, Megat Sharizal, Nick Davis, Jenhan Kuah and Maya Tan Abdullah!Directed by: Joanna BesseyGet your "mamak" on!

For more info/ tickets, please call 03 79600439 from 11am - 6pm

OR email: boxoffice@pjla.com.my

Michelle Yeoh in person!

work blog

Happy Holidays Everyone!

Article on cultural heritage in the NUT GRAPH.

Genting Trailblazer Greenaid run for Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)

Drama Workshops for 8-15 year olds!

Wacky Bar interview on BFM part 2

Wacky Bar interview on BFM

"Wacky Bar" -behind the scenes

New children's drama work-shop at KLPAC

Radio interview podcast on BFM 89.9 for the "Good Body"

New Pics! PR4A's Hand in Hand with the Stars Concert- Charity Concert for Autism

The Good Body, 18-28 June!

mStar Online : Cikgu Joanna tempat murid mencurah kasih

La Dolce Amira, new Drama series on TV3!

The new website! www.joannabessey.com

Food and Fashion! New episode in the last of the series of Exploring Malaysia on BBC World News

New episode of Exploring Malaysia on BBC World News

Adventure packing check-list

BBC World Programme "Exploring Malaysia" with Joanna Bessey

Voice Over in the Studio

Mini-Drama workshop in St Louis

Heidi Vogel at No Black Tie with Valtinho

Hear Heidi Vogel LIVE!

NST Sunday article on the trip to Belum and Temenggor Rainforest.

Happy Holidays!

20th Dec. Drama Workshop for Adults at KLPAC

Malaysian Nature Society trip to Belum and Temenggor Rainforest

Exploring Malaysia with BBC World!

Sun Bear Fundraiser Dinner

Style magazine October issue

Health & Beauty magazine October issue

Selamat Hari Raya!

3-day Drama Workshop for Children

No Plastic Bag Concert

"No Limits"..........Backstage!!! ;P

"Acuvue Oasys" & "Seeing Victory" -Olympics Launch

Nickelodeon - Let's Just Play! event

No Limits- the musical, get free tickets!

Nickelodeon Event- Dora's Pirate Adventure

‘GO GREEN - Get To Grips With Climate Change’

Launch of World Environment Day 2008 -

“Go GREEN -

Relay for Life- 31st May 2008

Acting Class for Young Adults at KLPAC

Boh Cameronian Arts Awards

Deal or No Deal!

Joanna Bessey nominated for Best Director- Boh Cameronian Arts Awards

Actor Olympics Idol!

Malaysian Talents.Com

Malaysian Talents dot Com

Actor Olympics- The TV show!

Aladdin- the Pantomime!

TEEN ACTING WORKSHOP!

Acting Workshop for Kids!

2nd May 3pm & 8:30pm.

Starring: Na'a Murad, Bella Rahim, Megat Sharizal, Nick Davis, Jenhan Kuah and Maya Tan Abdullah!

Directed by: Joanna Bessey

Get your "mamak" on!