Upcoming Events

16 August 2026 – [Musical] The Wolf, the Emperor, & the Ensemble: A Musical Journey Through Classic



The Wolf, the Emperor, & the Ensemble

GTLF Plus

The Wolf, the Emperor, & the Ensemble

A Musical Journey Through Classic Fairy Tales

A GTLF Plus Event.

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Admission is free. Register now to secure your place for this special family story hour.

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About the Event

Everyone loves a good story—especially when it comes alive through music. GTLF+ is delighted to present a special family story hour featuring two classic fairy tales brought to life by The Tarts Ensemble and a cast of guest narrators.

First, we join Little Red Riding Hood as she sets off from the kampong carrying a basket of special treats to visit her grandmother. Along the way she runs into a sly and hungry wolf who proceeds to make all kinds of trouble. With four narrators sharing the story and music by Bruce Adolphe highlighting the action, this familiar tale takes on fresh life for audiences of all ages.

Then meet an emperor who cares far too much about fine clothes. In Peter Schickele’s clever retelling of the classic tale, two mischievous children decide to play a trick on the vain ruler, catching both the emperor and everyone at court by surprise. The story is filled with wit, imagination, and music that is very much in on the joke.

Perfect for children, parents, grandparents, and anyone young at heart, this entertaining program invites audiences to experience two beloved stories through the magic of words and music.

About The Tarts Ensemble

Although The Tarts Ensemble is a new name, its musicians are familiar faces on Penang’s concert stages. Initially formed simply to play for fun, the ensemble began sharing Penang’s beloved egg tarts at rehearsals — and “The Tarts” were born. They continue to make music with the same spirit of joy and generosity, offering their audiences creative programs spanning Renaissance gems to Rock ‘n’ Roll favorites—and now beloved fairy tales as well.

Flexible in its composition, the core Tarts Ensemble is frequently joined by other musicians and artists, depending on the program. Today’s performance includes five founding “Tarts” and five guest narrators.

Performers

The Tarts Ensemble

Lee Chun Howe, oboe
Peter Lo, violin
Jeremy Tan, clarinet
Katie Coolbaugh, cello
Alyssa Khong, piano

Guest Narrators

Little Red Riding Hood
Maryam Richardson
Garu
Donovan Ng
Alison Stevens

The Emperor’s New Clothes
Chris Miley