National Theatre

The National Theatre (Malay: Istana Budaya) was founded back in September 1999. It is the country's main venue for all sorts of theatre including classical concert, opera, musical theatre as well as operetta from both local and international artists. It is located just beside the National Art Gallery along the Jalan Tun Razak.

The National Theatre began its construction back in 1995 and was completed three years after that. It took a sum of RM210 million to complete. The theatre floor alone is 21,000 sq meter while the whole cultural complex is 54,400 sq meter. The design of the theatre was inspired based on a flying traditional moon kite. Interesting features of the building includes the intricate design of the foyer and the turquoise folds on the roof. The theatre lobby on the third floor is influenced by the Malay culture.

The auditorium is able to accommodate about 1412 people. The theatre was also the venue for many international productions like Tosca, La Boheme, Turandot and much more and they are accompanied by the National Symphony Orchestra and choir.

The Titiwangsa Lake Gardens is just close by from the National Theatre. The lake garden is a place to unwind and relax as there are many walkways for you to walk around the garden while enjoying the lush greenery.

Contact Information

National Theatre (Istana Budaya)
Jalan Tun Razak
50694 Kuala Lumpur

Tel: +603 4026 5555
Fax: +603 4025 5975

Email: info@istanabudaya.gov.my

Getting There

The easiest way to get to the National Theatre is via taxi or driving here. You can also reach the park via the RapidKL LRT (Ampang Line) or RapidKL Monorail, stop at the Titiwangsa Station. Upon disembark from the station, you can walk towards the National Theatre.

KL Hop-on Hop-off Bus stop #21 in front of National Theatre.

Attractions in Kuala Lumpur