Kuo Pao Kun was a playwright, theatre director, dramatist, arts leader and a recipient of the Cultural Medallion.

Arguably one of the most prominent pioneers of Singapore Theatre, Kuo's dedication and kindling of local theatre has influenced generations of artists and practitioners. Many of his works have entered the canon of Southeast Asian literature and have been performed by international theatre companies from all across the world.

His best-known works include The Coffin is Too Big for the Hole, Mama Looking For Her Cat, The Silly Little Girl and the Funny Old Tree, Lao Jiu, and Descendants of the Eunuch Admiral.