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Asia-Pacific
CHANNELS
Newsletter of the World Dance Alliance Asia Pacific No. 1 | June 2019
Executive reports
The Executive Board of the World Dance Alliance
Asia Pacific (WDAAP) is elected by the membership
every two years at the Annual General Meeting,
which is held in a different country each year and
is hosted by the local WDA chapter. The Executive
Board consists of the President, the Vice President,
the Secretary, the Treasurer and four regional Vice
Presidents, who represent the interests of their
regions: East Asia, South-East Asia, South Asia
and the Pacific. Members with a specific interest in
the affairs of one of these regions should contact
the designated Vice President. If members wish to
contribute to issues within their own countries, they
should contact their Chapter heads.
Contents
Fitri Anggraini (Indonesia)
and Lau Beh Chin
(Malaysia) in their work
'Bumbu Goyang', with
students of the Dance
Department, University Executive reports 1
of Malaya, at Dancing President’s report 2
in Place 2019, Rimbun
Secretary’s report 3
Dahan, Malaysia, 26-27
January 2019. East Asia report 4
Photo: Foo Chiwei Pacific report 5
Southeast Asia report 6
Network reports 8
Research & Documentation Network report 9
Education & Training Network report 10
Chapter reports 12
Aotearoa New Zealand report 13
Australia report 15
Bangladesh report 16
Hong Kong report 18
India report 20
Malaysia report 22
Channels, No. 1 June 2019
Newsletter of the World Dance Alliance Asia
Papua New Guinea report 24
Pacific Philippines report 25
ISSN: 1328–2115 Singapore report 27
Editor: Bilqis Hijjas (contact@mydancealliance.org) Taiwan report 28
Publisher: World Dance Alliance Asia Pacific
2019-2020 WDA events
The Ocean Dance Festival 2019 30
Call for Papers for Panpapanpalya Proceedings 30
Hong Kong Global Summit 31
About the World Dance Alliance Asia Pacific 32
Taiwanese Young Dancers
Cover:
Nanyang Academy of Fine
World Dance Alliance key contacts 33 Flying to the World at the
2019 Kaohsiung Spring Arts
Arts Dance Programme
Festival (KSAF), produced
students in ‘Limbo 101’
by Tso's Dance Association:
by Ezekiel Oliveira, part
‘Four Seasons’ of Taiwan,
of ‘Crossings’ at Lee
choreographed by Ya-ting
Foundation Theatre,
Chang and Kuo-chun Wang.
Singapore, 26-27 April
Photo: Chun-yung Lin
2019. Photo: Jeff Low
June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 1
Vice President's report These international contacts explore
multifaceted views for audience, facilitate
by Stella Lau networking among dance practitioners, and,
performances, choreolab and twinning It is my pleasure and privilege to be the most importantly, bring out the high quality of
President's report projects has been magical, with people from newly elected Vice President of World contemporary dance within the Asia-Pacific.
all over the world responding and registering Dance Alliance Asia-Pacific. One highlight of the array of good news
by Urmimala Sarkar with enthusiasm. The dance development in the Asia-Pacific this year is no doubt the establishment of the
The Choreolab has as its mentor and region has attracted much attention in recent Asia Network for Dance (AND+), initiated by
It is a pleasure to be back with a report for facilitator the well-known choreographer, years. As the primary voice and support the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority
the next Channels. In the times of great scholar and dancer Sashar Zarif from for the dance community, the WDA now in Hong Kong. The Network gathers
changes in terms of priorities in funding, Canada, a long time member of WDA- needs to play its role even more proactively representatives from overseas counterparts,
medical benefits available, and shifting away Americas. Out of a long list of excellently than before. It is key to keep abreast of the empowers contemporary practice in dance,
of focus from dance in particular, and arts in qualified aspirants, we have been able to times and respond to challenges by offering and provides a comprehensive platform for
general, World Dance Alliance Asia Pacific is invite 20 dancers, who will be participating in choreographers and dancers excellent knowledge exchange.
actually faring well. the Choreolab for fifteen days. opportunities to present their works and And to celebrate the 70th Anniversary of
Of the two events that the Asia Pacific The second event I would like flag is collaborate with other talents. the International Theatre Institute, Dr. Willy
region is proudly looking forward to, the the WDA Global Summit 2020 in Hong This year, Hong Kong has encountered Tsao, an influential figure in China’s modern
first is Ocean Dance Festival, the WDAAP Kong, organised by Hong Kong Academy two professional dance festivals dance development, has been invited to be
Choreolab for emerging dancers, WDAAP of Performing Arts (HKAPA), alongside the dedicated to contemporary dance: Hong the International Dance Day Message Author
conference and Annual General Meeting SWEAT Hong Kong International Dance Kong Dance Exchange (HDX) and City representing Asia Pacific at the formal
in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, in November Workshop Festival. This is an event for which Contemporary Dance Festival (CCDF). celebration of IDD 2018 in Havana, Cuba.
2019. the HKAPA has started discussing exciting HDX has empowered emerging talents I look forward to supporting more
The WDAAP meeting is a regular yearly plans with the WDA Global Executive. from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan and South upcoming events and projects to promote
event, but is happening for only the second For those who are registered or are Korea by staging their extraordinary dance dance worldwide. Let us share our visions
time in South Asia since WDA’s inception. registering to attend the WDAAP AGM productions. CCDF, on the other hand, has and contribute to the development of artistic
The venue and the basic infrastructure and event in Cox’s Bazar, a warm welcome presented a lineup of world-class dance works and the growth of the next generation
are being provided by the Government of in advance. For those who are missing troupes from Hong Kong and many other of artists and cultural workers.
Bangladesh, while Nrityajog, the Bangladesh it for some reason, keep a lookout for contributing Asian cities.
Chapter of WDAAP, is at the helm of the December Channels, the website of
organising all other affairs. Bangladesh is Ocean Dance Festival www.oceandance
organising Ocean Dance Festival for the first festival.com and the Facebook pages of
time and WDAAP is proud to be invited to World Dance Alliance and Nrityajog, the
organise its annual meeting and conference Bangladesh Chapter of World Dance
around the festival. Alliance Asia Pacific. Secretary's report Secretary’s report
The response to the call for papers, Secretary-General’s report (as in Asia
by Julie Dyson Pacific Channels June 2019)
4. Chapter reports – (for noting, as in the
WORLD DANCE ALLIANCE – ASIA June 2019 edition of Asia-Pacific Channels)
PACIFIC 5. Network reports (for noting, as in the June
Notice of 2019 Annual General 2019 edition of Asia-Pacific Channels)
Meeting 6. Overview of WDAAP networks (Urmimala
Mermaid Resort, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh Sarkar Munsi):
Sunday 24 November 2019
1.30 – 3 pm Research & Documentation
Education & Training
AGENDA Creation & Presentation
Chair: Prof. Urmimala Sarkar Munsi, Support & Development
President, WDAAP
7. Next AGM: Hong Kong, 15-21 June 2020
1. Welcome, apologies (exact date tbc).
2. Minutes of previous AGM (Adelaide, 11 Presentation on behalf of HKAPA & HKDA:
Dancers from July December 2018: to be circulated) Stella Lau
Bangladesh, including
Md. Hanif (far right), in
3. Executive Board reports (For noting, as in
a scene from Helena the June 2019 edition of Asia-Pacific
Waldmann's 2014 film Channels): Network meetings
Made in Bangladesh.
3.00-3.45 pm Research & Documentation
Read the story of Md.
Hanif's meteoric rise in President’s report 3.45-4.00 pm Tea
dance in the Bangladesh VPs’ reports 4.00-4.45 pm Creation & Presentation
report in this edition. Treasurer’s report 4.45-5.30 pm Education & Training
2 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 3
Inano Dance Company’s Mamai’ata (The Programme and is
New Dawn) called upon its audience to making moves on and
reflect on their own personal experiences, off the dance floor.
focusing on human traits and characteristics Xavier’s work Pou was
that we all possess. Choreographed and choreographed for
directed by Te Hau Winitana, (Cook Island/ and performed by his
Māori) Mamai’ata revealed our frailties and project-based Pacific
strengths, and contemplated a new way to a dance company,
good life with the break of a new dawn. MANU Collective.
Award-winning choreographer Tupua Pou was presented
Pacific Tigafua is a highly accomplished dancer and as a double-bill
Aotearoa New
storyteller. After an illustrious career dancing alongside Vivian
Zealand for some of Aotearoa’s creative elite, Tupua Aue’s (AUE Dance
has masterfully created his own dance style. Company) Anga in
Australia
Pacific report Inspired by the works of renowned American the 2018 Pacific
Papua New Guinea writer Shel Silverstein, Shel We was an Dance Festival.
by Vice President Sheryl Lowe invitation to witness an enchanting, playfully Xavier represented
New Zealand has long been viewed as an intriguing, and visually stunning dance show. both New Zealand
incubator for Pacific talent contributing The fourth rendition of the Pacific and the Pacific at
significantly to the achievements of our Dance Festival held from 5-23 June 2019, a recent UNESCO
national sports teams. In recent times young embraced contemporary Pacific dance in Forum for Creativity
Pasifika artists finding their voices through Auckland New Zealand, the most populous and Heritage in
arts and dance have also been shining the Polynesian city in the world, providing a vital China, and is also
light on their communities, revitalising the platform for Pasifika artists. Acclaimed and part of the Asia New
rich storytelling traditions of the Pacific. accomplished Pacific dance artists took Zealand Foundation 1
These artists have been nurtured through to the floor and brought a moving feast of Leadership network.
creative platforms that encourage positive entertaining and thought-provoking theatre, These artists
transformation enabling them to express workshops, screenings, choreographic labs are also delving into mainstream dance and conventions to challenge perceived
themselves through the arts. and more. festivals, with a new wave of young, Pasifika concepts of traditional and contemporary.
The Kia Mau Festival ran from 1-15 June Contributing and recurring festival artist choreographers featuring in Tempo Dance Internationally acclaimed dancer and
2019 in Wellington featuring theatre and Ufitia Sagapolutele (New Zealand/Sāmoa), Festival, New Zealand’s pan-genre dance choreographer in street dance Parris Goebel
dance by Māori, Pasifika, and Indigenous says of the festival: “The festival is definitely festival which takes place 2-12 October is also featured. Her work, Girl, is an intimate
artists from across Te Moana-nui-a-Kiwa a space for me to grow as an emerging 2019. Genres of street dance, Indigenous show that looks into the journey females
and the globe. As a festival, Kia Mau is a artist. We are born as performers and it's dance, contemporary dance and Siva take to discover their inner power. Parris
contemporary platform which fosters creative amazing to have this platform for us to Sāmoa all feature in the headline shows created ‘Polyswagg’, a unique style of dance
and cultural exchange with an Indigenous showcase what we're about.” announced by new artistic director Cat Ruka that combines elements of traditional New
worldview. 2019 marked the fifth year of the Fellow presenting artist Xavier Breed is (Ngāpuhi, Waitaha). The programme reflects Zealand dance inspired by her Samoan
festival and included two stunning works by a recent postgraduate student from the Cat’s strong and innate passion for seeing heritage with aggressive, contemporary
emerging Pasifika artists. University of Auckland Dance Studies rangatahi (youth) succeed, and affirms her ‘popping’. Polyswagg has been embraced for
reputation as one of the most sought after its empowerment of female dancers in hip
mentors for Māori and Pasifika artists. hop and has been used extensively in music
Spearheading the programme are two video choreography by top recording artists.
works from Pasifika artists. Sau E Siva The emergence of a new generation of
Creatives presents Fa'asinomaga Identity, an Pacific artists, their diverse works and ways
epic tour-de-force of Siva Sāmoa with over of making their statement in dance, bodes
50 performers who fuse new choreography well for the Pacific story to flourish in the arts
with the "Best of Le Best" from previous world.
sold-out shows. Sau E Siva Creatives is
a recently-formed Pacific Dance theatre
company founded by graduates Troy Tu’ua,
Italia Hunt, Idalene Ati, Bob Savea and Leki
Jackson-Bourke from the Pacific Institute
of Performing Arts. The foundation of their
work stems from the cultural heritage art
form of contemporary and traditional Siva
Sāmoa. They are a passionate collective
1. MANU Collective.
TRIP by Ufitia
of Pasifika artists weaving multiple Photo: Pati Solomona
Sagapolutele. Photo: disciplines, diverse audiences and authentic 2 Tyrell
Mataara Stokes storytelling enhanced by theatrical elements 2. Sau E Siva Creatives.
4 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 5
with Thai dancer Vidura Amranand, the work
was also part of Step Together, a project 1. Nguyen Thanh Chung
supporting collaboration between Malaysian (Vietnam) and Sherli
and other Southeast Asian choreographers, Novalinda (Indonesia)
in their work 'When at
which was funded this year by CENDANA, RD', at Dancing in Place
Malaysia’s Cultural Economy Development 2019 at Rimbun Dahan,
Agency, as part of their Emerging Artist Malaysia. Photo: Nazir
Incubation Funding Programme. Azhari
2. Morning Star Dark
A total of four works were created in Valley, choreographed
the Step Together project, which brought by Darlane Litaay,
South East Asia the participants together for a week of performed at the
collaboration before the results were Indonesian Dance
Malaysia Festival 2018 (Darlane
performed at Dancing in Place. The was also a SEA
Philippines results were an interesting way to assess 1 Choreolab participant.)
Indonesia South East Asia report choreographic trends among contemporary Photo: Feri Latief
producers in the region.
Singapore by Vice President Bilqis Hijjas One of the evident trends is an interest in were incorporated into Fitri and Beh Chin’s ways to harness what resources they have to
Thailand Two women sat on the sofa, each staring duration. Indonesian choreographer Sherli ‘Bumbu Goyang’ as a corps who tossed keep going. Sibu International Dance Festival
into the depths of a saucepan. Audience Novalinda made a duet with Vietnamese and shredded newspapers while the two enters its eighth year in 2019, while Fang
members perched agog beside them, as the dancer Nguyen Thanh Chung which featured choreographers moved through slow weight- Mae Khong International Dance Festival is
women suddenly tipped the saucepans over an extended period of immobility, broken sharing. nine years old. Melaka Art + Performance
their thrusting groins. On the other side of by the carefully timed sounding of the azan Five other Malaysian dance works rounded Festival celebrates its first decade this
the sitting room, a male dancer wearing a from the Muslim surau across the road. out the program for Dancing in Place, year, as well as the tenth edition of the M1
sarong cavorted on the dining room table, Hii Ing Fung from Malaysia worked with contributed by choreographers Tan Bee Contact Festival in Singapore, which is run
his head perilously close to the ceiling fan. Chan Sze Wei from Singapore to create Hung, Norsafini Jafar, Kenny Shim, Chan Kar by T.H.E. Dance Company. The grandmother
Then he upended himself upon the table, the appropriately titled ‘Tree Time’, an Kah and Khairi Mokthar. It was also a chance of them all is the biennial Indonesian Dance
legs akimbo, presumably to let a little breeze engagement with elements in the garden for these choreographers and dancers to Festival, which is 27 years old, having
play around his privates. which went on for 3 hours, as the other meet and mingle with their Southeast Asian started in 1992. Congratulations to them all!
This bizarre but humorous vision of gender Dancing in Place works played out around colleagues over the performance weekend. Dancing in Place celebrated its 10th
politics in the household, seasoned with a them. This is the second time that Dancing anniversary this year too. Even before
strong dash of psychological intrigue, was Fitri Anggraini from Indonesia and Lau in Place at Rimbun Dahan has included Step Together, it has always had a few
titled ‘A Strange Meeting’, performed in a Beh Chin from Malaysia decided to recruit collaborations by Southeast Asian Southeast Asian participants, although most
hundred-year-old house at Rimbun Dahan as non-professional dancers to enhance their choreographers, all of whom are alumni of of them have had to pay their own way. The
part of Dancing in Place in January this year. work. Luckily, a troupe of students from the the annual Southeast Asian Choreolab at willingness of Southeast Asian dancers and
A collaboration between Malaysian dancers University of Malaya’s Dance Department Rimbun Dahan. This project forms a natural choreographers to invest their own funds
Fauzi Amirudin and Nurulakmal Abdul Wahid were on hand. After a quick briefing, they stepping stone after the Choreolab, allowing in order to meet their peers in the region
the Choreolab participants to reunite with continues to impress me. Their eagerness is
collaborators of their own choosing, and the reason I will find a way to keep my small
to spend some serious time making dance platform going.
together.
But the sustainability of this project is
tenuous. This year we were lucky to get
CENDANA funding, but the previous year
was unfunded, and we have no sponsors
on the horizon for next year. Unlike the
Southeast Asian Choreolab, which lends
itself to reliable support from international
cultural organisations associated with the
selected choreolab facilitator, it is difficult
to see how the Step Together project can
ever reach a comfortable financial footing.
Malaysian dancers Fauzi As always, it is difficult to bring Southeast
Amirudin and Nurulakmal
Abdul Wahid (seated at
Asians together to meet other Southeast
the table) in their work 'A Asians, when all of us are operating in
Strange Meeting', created straitened circumstances.
with Vidura Amranand On that note, I would like to recognise
(Thailand), at Dancing
in Place 2019 at Rimbun
and celebrate the many independent
Dahan, Malaysia. Photo: dance events in Southeast Asia which have 2
Nazir Azhari persisted over the years, finding creative
6 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 7
Network reports
The World Dance Alliance works through four Networks, based on specific areas of interest and embracing
the mandate of the organisation. Each network has a chairperson and co-chair who coordinate activities
to advance the issues raised by these special interest groups. Network Chairs initiate and drive the work
of special interest groups within the WDAAP and provide two reports annually on their activities for Asia– Research & Perspectives on Dance Education, Young
Pacific Channels. Documentation People and Change, presents formal and
informal settings of education where dance
About the Network report takes place in different countries, including
networks by A. P. Rajaram & Stephanie
Burridge, co-chairs
cross-cultural projects and examples of
projects in which dance is collaborating with
other art forms or other subject areas. Its
The Education and Training Network Research on dance has become a vibrant focus is how collaborative initiatives across
provides a forum for professional multidisciplinary area of academic focus in borders of different kinds can foster change
exchange to improve dance curriculum the Asia-Pacific region and is attracting new in young people’s experiences and their
content and delivery, and opportunities generations of scholars. The focuses of the understanding of each other and the world.
for sharing information and resources. research are varied, encompassing studies The volume encompasses a network of
The Research and Documentation based on historiography, philosophy, analysis interwoven themes revolving around the key
Network supports and initiates projects and cultural studies. The new research concept of ‘borders’; for instance, cultural/
that engage contemporary insights extends to understanding and analysing of national borders; subject borders (dance
into dance as a vibrant part of diverse contemporary dance forms, the dance-like coexisting with other art forms or subject
scholarly and artistic conversations. The movements and the ideas around varied areas); borders of educational sectors
network regularly publishes journals, forms of embodiments. The new emerging (formal/non-formal education); borders of
books and conference proceedings dance scholars are setting the preliminary professions (academics, artists, community
and encourages members to participate foundation of questioning the changes that practitioners) and socio-economic borders.
in writing, editing and reviewing for are forced on the academic discourse due to Key themes suggest how cultural diversity,
these publications. It also encourages the advanced interventions of new media. experiential teaching and learning involving
publications in differing formats and This is observed in the two international social, cross-cultural and personal
languages whilst maintaining English conferences that are about to happen dimensions enhance student learning.
as the lingua franca for communication. in the Asia Pacific region, the first one This conceptually aligns with the current
Individual projects proposed by is the International Council of Traditional UNESCO protocols that accent empathy,
members addressing the heritage and Music (ICTM), at Chulalongkorn University, creativity, cooperation, collaboration
future of dance, to include ideas for Bangkok, happening in July 2019; the alongside skills and knowledge-based
implementation, are encouraged and second is the Ocean Dance Festival (ODF) learning in an endeavour to create civic
supported through this network. The happening at Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, in mindedness and a more harmonious world.
Support and Development Network conjunction with the World Dance Alliance The rationale of including multiple
focuses on dance-based activities Asia Pacific Annual General Meeting. The countries to gain many points of view and
in terms of management, promotion, research papers at the ICTM conference perspectives from practitioners in the field
distribution, advocacy, policy and are ranging from analysis of performances, is the essence of this third book and others
funding, through members who practice dance forms, and costumes from all over in the series ‘Perspectives on Dance,
in these areas. It equally encompasses the world covering the orient to occident. Young People and Change’. International
members who are concerned with the Centred around the theme of ‘Bridging the perspectives come from Australia, Brazil,
social and physical well being of dance Gap’, the research papers at ODF cover Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Hong
such as health professionals, somatic dance pedagogy, corporeal experiences of Kong, India, Iraq, Norway, New Zealand,
practitioners, community facilitators Indian classical dance, finding the missing Poland, Singapore, Slovenia, South Africa,
and legal advisors. In all these aspects linkages to dance from the past and locating Syria, Uganda, UK and USA. The book
communication networks—professional the present nature of dance forms. will be launched in Norway in April 2020
and social—are an important driver for The WDAAP Research & Documentation at the ‘Future(s) of Dance Education(s):
dance sustainability. Network proudly announces a book Opportunities and Challenges’ conference in
The Creation and Presentation Network focusing on dance, contributed by our Trondheim.
provides opportunities for choreographic The mature dancers of WDA and daCi members, along with other The next volume of the Journal of Emerging
development, presentation, networking Dance Dynamics from artists and scholars. This is the third book Dance Scholarship (JEDS) is being co-
and cultural exchange. It includes Singapore, in their in the series ‘Perspectives on Dance, edited by two guest editors: Anja Ali-
performance at Singapore
choreographers, dancers, designers, Chinese Cultural Centre
Young People and Change’ published by Haapala and Sarah Knox. We look forward
composers, filmmakers and other on 29 December 2018. Routledge UK and co-edited by Stephanie to make this new arrangement a norm and
collaborators. Burridge and Charlotte Svendler Neilsen. will be inviting two new guest editors for the
This new volume, Dancing Across Borders: coming year as well.
8 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 9
Education & Training for Arts Education (WAAE) initiatives and theme encompassing all aspects of this context of new technologies and changing
Network report providing a voice for dance in significant term including physical, emotional and the global priorities, including communication,
events such as the WAAE Creativity inclusion of a DanceScience Lab initiative. digital technologies, screen dance,
by Ralph Buck & Jeff Meiners, Summits in Taiwan 2008, England Ideas were drawn from recent Asia Dance neuroscience and safe dance practice, and
co-chairs 2009, Finland 2012, Germany 2013, Network experience as an effective model a decrease in national funding for dance
and conferences in Australia 2014, New for collaboration. service organisations etc.
Zealand 2017, as well as the Asia-Pacific Perhaps the focus of WDA is, in reality,
Future steps and directions for the Alliance for Arts Education (AP AAE) Online Discussion tertiary education and training which
Asia-Pacific Education & Training Summit 2010. Part of this work has also The above matters led to a broader can include the activities of the Research
Network and for the WDA been to bring to fruition collaborations discussion about the context of the next & Documentation Network as well as
Co-Chairs of the WDA-AP Education & between WDA and daCi 2012 Taiwan WDA summit, following the success of the Creation & Presentation network. Is
Training Network, Ralph Buck and Jeff and the 2018 Australia joint congresses, the joint WDA Global E & T Network the purpose therefore mainly to ensure
Meiners, met in Hong Kong on Monday 28 as well as associated proceedings and event Panpapanpalya 2018, the second that a Summit occurs every two years to
May 2019 with Anna Chan in her new role book publications driven by the Research such collaboration with daCi, as well as provide opportunities to network and share
as Dean of Dance at Hong Kong Academy & Documentation Network. Such outputs the upcoming WDAAP AGM and Ocean practices and research endeavours with
of Performing Arts and WDA East Asia Vice enable us to build our global knowledge Dance Festival in Bangladesh, convened by regular publication outputs to disseminate
President Stella Lau, to discuss two key networks to develop and strengthen Vice-President South Asia & Chair WDA- practice and generate new theory?
matters. synergies between practice and theory, and Bangladesh, Lubna Marium. Acknowledging
between WDA networks. It was also noted the changing context of tertiary education Concluding Questions for Us All
Succession Plan for Co-Chairing of that daCi and the WDA Global Education & along with WDA’s work in education, training From our discussion in Hong Kong we
the WDA-AP Education & Training Training network continue to work together and research, a timely key question that have outlined in this report some of the
Network with many individuals taking key roles might be addressed as part of the 2020 current developments undertaken by the
First, after many years holding these and working collaboratively across both Global Summit is ‘What is the purpose of WDAAP and Global Education & Training
positions, we believe it is time for new organisations and with WAAE. WDA in 2020?’ Network. With a focus on ‘bursting the
people to take up these voluntary roles. We agreed that these international Ralph had recently met with WDA Asia bubble’ as suggested by Stella and Anna,
Plans are now underway for a succession networking principles should be maintained Pacific President Urmimala Sarkar, and we suggest it may be timely to take a
plan for co-chairing of the WDA-AP as selection criteria for new E&T network also Cristina Golletti, President of WDA- critical perspective during the 2020 Global
Education & Training Network. chairpersons. Americas. Ralph noted several ideas and Congress by including a provocation that
Ralph reminded everyone that as noted concerns that arose from these separate may elicit responses to the question ‘What
at the 2019 WDA-AP meeting in Adelaide, WDA Global Congress Hong Kong meetings. Some issues included the is the purpose of WDA in 2020?’ This
Sarah Knox (NZ) will take on his role once 2020 need to improve the WDA website, and might be done in a ‘long table’ participatory
she returns from maternity leave (anticipated Our second matter for discussion was a need to review the membership and discussion to be videoed, ensuring that
to be June 2020). Ralph is currently support for the next WDA Global Summit. payment model. Our meeting in Hong Kong many voices are heard to refresh WDA
continuing as WDA Global Ed & Training Anna reported on proposed dates of 15–21 noted that changes within the Australian vision and role and to determine future
network and WAAE chair. June for the WDA Global Congress to be Dance Council (Ausdance), the Taipei directions for WDA.
Jeff flagged his intention to give notice held in Hong Kong in a partnership between National University of the Arts, and the This report therefore poses some collegial
and resign from his co-chair role at the HKAPA, HK Dance Alliance and SWEAT wider geopolitical climate presents new questions as we seek your insights into the
upcoming November Bangladesh meeting. along with the International Festival for challenges for World Dance Alliance. future of WDA:
Jeff is now Chair Elect with dance and the Dance Academies (IFDA) scheduled for 18- We went on to discuss the WDA network We are wondering what you want from
Child international (daCi), working with 20 June. It was noted that such IFDA events structure. Anna noted that in light of new the WDAAP Education & Training Network
Chair Susan Koff from the USA and will had occurred alongside the 2010 New York, organisations such as the Asia Network for and indeed the WDA?
take on the Chair role at the next daCi 2012 Taiwan and 2014 France congresses, Dance (AND+), along with the growth of How might we better understand the
conference in Toronto 2021. Anna agreed but not since. dance houses and choreographic centres WDA Global constitution and also the
to seek someone to nominate for this role Anna spoke of her aspiration to across countries, that the WDA Creation constitutions of each of the Americas,
as soon as possible. reinvigorate the Hong Kong summit with a & Presentation network and the Support Europe and Asia-Pacific Chapters?
We noted that over the past 12 years, the focus on ‘bursting the bubble’ by revisiting & Development network may no longer How do these constitutions compare?
WDA-AP Education and Training Network the contributions of tertiary academies be key action areas for WDA. Again, we What are the financial arrangements and
has led participation by members to ensure within the context of training for high thought that this needed some detailed responsibilities of each region, and how
that dance education is represented and level performance. With SWEAT, the consideration in forthcoming WDAAP and are membership, resourcing and website
situated strategically and internationally, focus would be on artistic exchange and WDA Global meetings. It may be therefore maintenance arrangements managed, and
working with UNESCO and World Alliance making processes, with ‘Wellness’ as a beneficial to revisit Carl Wolz’s vision in the by whom?
10 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 11
Chapters Aotearoa
New
Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia,
Bangladesh, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia,
Zealand
South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines, report
Singapore, Taiwan and Thailand. by Sheryl Lowe
Countries with representatives but no
formalised Chapters: East Timor and Papua
New Guinea.
Keep the Peace,
choreographed by Anna
Groves, performed at
Oriental Bay, Wellington.
New Zealand dance teacher Brie Jessen- Messenger of Peace, Dr Jane Goodall. In
their boundaries. They are important points Vaughn, in a Dance Aotearoa New Zealand Palmerston North a national campaign called
Chapter reports in regional and global communication and (DANZ) blog post, writes: “The arts bring Dancer I Am was launched in response to
networking. These Chapters propose and us together, to transcend the mundane and youth mental health and wellbeing issues.
Countries or defined geographical areas implement projects that address not only transform lived experience into archetype. The campaign is set up to encourage young
within a regional centre may become the general goals of WDA and WDA Asia The arts are able to capture what we people to use dance as a way to empower
Chapter members, providing information Pacific, but also the specific needs of the haven’t got words for…” This was written in and express themselves, as well as open up
and coordinating the dance activities within local dance community. response to the terrible attacks which befell a dialogue about mental health issues.
the Muslim community in Christchurch early In the same vein of change, the dance
this year. New Zealand has been in a state of scene in New Zealand as in other parts of
mourning and many people have been using the world, has been expanding for some
the arts as a way to understand and move time beyond traditional practices and
forward. embracing the realm of the experimental.
Dance has been an excellent conduit To highlight this shift, New Zealand had
to inspire social change and many New its first ever experimental dance festival.
Zealand dance artists have been tackling Experimental Dance Week Aotearoa was
hard-hitting social issues in their projects. curated by Berlin-based New Zealand artist
At the beginning of the year, recent dance Alexa Wilson, and launched in Auckland in
graduate Caitlin Davey was recipient of a February. The festival was a gathering of
three-week dance residency sponsored some of New Zealand’s finest experimental
by DANZ and Saint Kentigern College in dance artists; presenting provocative
Auckland. Caitlin used the time to develop works, delivering workshops and panelled
her work About Others, a contemporary discussions. The festival also marked the
piece that invites the audience to walk in the launch of Te Ao Live: Experimental Dance
shoes of those who have had different life Aotearoa NZ in the Early 21st Century,
experiences to us – particularly in light of the a publication with the writings of 30
A Kulau male dance at a global refugee crisis. experimental dance artists at the top of
Balabalaguan mortuary Another example of dance for social their game. The publication is a snapshot
ceremony by the
Kabalama clan in Matupit
change was Anna Groves’ choreographic and archival documentation of experimental
village, East New Britain project Keep the Peace, a ‘flash mob’ style dance being created in Aotearoa.
Province, Papua New work dedicated to those who have said There has been a real drive for
Guinea, in September yes to peace in the past and those who collaboration and partnership across the arts
2018, choreographed
by To Pidik Mong & To
continue to advocate for it. The project took and other sectors and we have seen some
Welwel Tovuat. Photo: place around Wellington city’s Oriental Bay really positive outcomes. This year DANZ
Naomi Faik-Simet. and received express support from Prime was supported by Sport New Zealand,
Minister Jacinda Ardern and United Nations the national leader of our sporting system,
12 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 13
to extend the New Zealand Dance Week choreographer Moss Patterson shared his
programme, resulting in high visibility and indigenous voice through The Royal New
participation for dance. Collaboration across Zealand Ballet, creating an evocative work,
companies and art forms is also building Hine, which interweaved traditional Māori
steam and it’s exciting to see the kind of practices with contemporary elements. All
work and opportunities coming out of it. of these things highlight the power of cross-
One of our leading contemporary dance cultural and cross-genre collaboration.
companies, Footnote New Zealand Dance, To end this chapter we will take another
collaborated with the Guangdong Modern quote from Brie Jessen-Vaughn which
Dance Company (China) to present a speaks volumes about dance and its
stunning triple bill around the country. We possibilities: “…to dance is to share, to
have watched the growth of cross-discipline communicate. And to communicate is to
work in the form of virtual reality dance with have a voice, and to raise your voice is to
filmmaker Ed Davis using the art form as a have power. And with that power we can
basis to explore new technologies. Māori bring about change.”
This report begins with the very sad news At the heart of this year’s NDF is the Australia
that the board of Ausdance National has acknowledgement that dance is a political report
decided to wind up the organisation. ‘The force, a provocation for change, a much-
impact of shrinking government funding for needed disruptor. The forum paid particular by Julie Dyson
the organisation has resulted in dwindling attention to artists, thinkers, teachers
reserves and severely limited resources. and leaders who explore this potential.
Despite significant fundraising efforts and Questions included issues about what it
organisational restructuring, Australia’s means to belong and what happens when
national advocate for the dance sector could your connection to place or community is
not secure sustainable financial support.’ disrupted? How does dance become a force
Ausdance National has contributed for radical action? How does the dance
significantly to the health of the dance sector drive and respond to change?
profession for 42 years through its advocacy, The full NDF program is available here.
research and groundbreaking partnerships.
It’s ironic that at a time when the sector In recent years, several high profile
needs a voice to the federal parliament more women in dance have been recognised with
then ever, that voice has now been silenced. awards in the Order of Australia, including
You can read the full statement from the international ballerina Lucette Aldous, last
board online here. year awarded the rare Companion of the
There is concern by many in the dance Order of Australia (AC). Several other artists
community about the future of the Ausdance and administrators have been recognised in
National website, recognised internationally recent years, including Shirley McKechnie
'Mass Solitude'
choreographed by as one of the most resource-rich dance and Susan Street (Officers), and Nanette
Sarah Foster-Sproull, repositories available to educators and Hassall, Cheryl Stock and Julie Dyson
performed by Footnote researchers. A group of life members is (Members).
New Zealand Dance working on strategies to preserve and In June the artistic director of the
and Guangdong Modern
Dance Company, in maintain the site, and to grow its reputation Queensland Ballet (and Mao’s Last Dancer)
Hemispheres, February/ as a leading publisher of dance articles, Li Cunxin, and choreographer/director Meryl
March 2019. papers and publications. Tankard, were both made Officers of the
Photo: Li Jianyang The dramatic announcement of the Order, along with Tankard’s associate artist,
closure of Ausdance National came as the photographer and visual artist, Régis Lansac
organisation, in collaboration with Tracks (Medal). All recipients are entitled to use the
Dance Company in the Northern Territory, appropriate letters after their names ahead
was about to present the fifth National of any other awards they may have received,
Dance Forum (NDF), held in Darwin on 9-10 and to wear their medals or pins whenever
August 2019. they appear in public. It’s wonderful to see
our dance artists nominated and recognised.
14 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 15
Bangladesh 1 bridge the gap between social, cultural and Arts Department of
report economic situations within society i.e. in the US Embassy
the cultural sphere, within society, between identified him, due
by Lubna generations, and between tradition and to the generous
Marium innovation. The keynote speeches will be efforts of a couple
delivered by Bangladeshi-British dancer of sincere officials
Akram Khan; Indian dancer Leela Samson; there. They put
Dr Urmimala Sarkar, President of WDAAP; him through a year
and Bangladeshi dancer Lubna Marium, Vice of Computer and
President, WDAAP. English lessons,
There is already confirmed participation of which later helped
dancers from Taiwan, Korea, Canada, USA, him to apply for
Australia and the countries of South Asia. a scholarship.
A unique section of the ODF will be In 2014, Hanif
Twinning Projects between Australia and participated in 'Made
Bangladesh, USA and Bangladesh, and in Bangladesh', the Md. Hanif with Joy
Nrityajog All Set to Host the Ocean by the increasing influence of first the Indian India and Bangladesh. Another component Bangladesh-German production directed by Alpuerto Ritter, at
Dance Festival of Bangladesh classical dances and then the global trends is a 15-day choreolab, preceding the ODF, Helena Waldmann. As an aside, in spite of all Orsaline 28, Italy, during
the Summer Intensive
of contemporary dance practices, especially from 5 to 15 November 2019, for 25 mid- my efforts to make Hanif save his substantial 2019.
“If in the Ananda, or bliss, one dances for the classical jazz. career dancers mentored by Canadian-Irani earning from this project for himself, he
sake of salvation, let it be performed with the In 2009 Bangladesh joined World dancer Sashar Zarif, based on his practice spent it all to ensure that his father no longer
songs of Vajra in the company of yogis.” Dance Alliance Asia Pacific, and a large of the dance of Mugham, a Central Asian had to do manual labor to look after their
– Hevajratantram (6.10), contingent of around 19 dancers joined the genre of art. Lastly, the ODF also plans to family of six.
eighth century AD, Bengal. WDAAP Conference at Delhi in November showcase folk dances of South Asia. A beautiful documentary film, 'Above
of that year. Since then, there have been Dance has always been a vibrant cultural This City', by Australian film-maker Georgia
Bangladesh has a long history of dance innumerable interactions between WDA practice of Bangladesh. ODF will facilitate Foulkes-Taylor, movingly captures the
starting all the way from Buddhist ritual and Nrityajog, a conglomeration of forty skill transfer, networking, collaboration and dreams and aspirations of two young
dances of the 8th Century AD, described organizations which forms the Bangladesh innovation. dancers from Bangladesh, including Hanif.
in the Tantric text Hevajratantram, and Chapter of WDAAP. Each year dancers from In between, Kathleen Weitz, an American
which, amazingly, are still performed in the countries such as India, Nepal, Canada, Arising From Grit, Toil And dancer, took Hanif under her wings. Finally,
Kathmandu Valley of Nepal, due to a history and Taiwan have conducted workshops in Determination: A Dancer’s Story Hanif received an ICCR Scholarship from
of cultural relocation. Since then dance Bangladesh courtesy of WDA. Bangladesh Taking up dance as a career is never easy, the Government of India and has recently,
has been part and parcel of the land with too has participated in WDA events in Nepal, whichever part of the world one is in! But in successfully, completed his BA in Kathak
a vibrant and continuing practice of dance Taiwan, Canada, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangladesh, a Muslim majority country, with from Rabindra Bharati University. While in
within folk theatre, both mundane and New York, France and more. scant resources and funding for dance, it is Kolkata both Mitul Sengupta of Rhythmosaic
ritual. However, it was left to two artistic Finally, after several attempts, Nrityajog doubly difficult. However, as we know, if your and Ashimbandhu Bhattacharya supported
stalwarts of the last century, Bengal’s is set to host the WDAAP Annual event heart yearns to move in sync with music and Hanif's dance. A month ago, Hanif was
Noble Laureate Rabindranath Tagore and in Cox’s Bazar, the spectacularly beautiful rhythm, dancers can be pretty resourceful awarded a second scholarship by ICCR
1. Down Memory Lane: internationally renowned dancer Uday beach city on the Bay of Bengal, from and determined. One such story is that of for his Masters Degree. Excitingly, Akram
Nrityajog at the WDAAP Shankar, to bring dance to the prosceniums 22 to 24 November this year. Nrityajog is young Bangladeshi dancer Md. Hanif. Khan, the stellar British-Bangladeshi dancer,
Delhi Conference in of Bengal. When Bengal was divided, by the combining this event with the inauguration Md. Hanif started working with our dance accepted Hanif for his Summer Intensive
2009.
2. Nrityajog at a WDA-
British, into the East and the West, with the of a yearly dance festival called the Ocean company, Shadhona, a decade ago. A 2019 scheduled for August 2019 in Italy.
Americas event in July former becoming the independent nation Dance Festival of Bangladesh, combining young, shy boy, living in one of the many Every time I see Hanif grow from strength
2010. Bangladesh, in 1971, there was a distancing exciting tourism with dance. While the shanty settlements of Dhaka, he loved to strength, my faith in life is renewed.
of the rural and WDAAP Conference will showcase dances to dance. Hanif was reticent and pretty
urban practices, from all over the Asia Pacific, the Ocean much uncommunicative, but he was totally
with almost no Dance Festival hopes to give a platform to transformed whenever he started dancing.
connection between dancers from Bangladesh and South Asia. Through the years we've watched him
the two. Folk The Ministries of Cultural Affairs and Tourism doggedly finish school with a 4.5 GPA, all
dances, based on of Bangladesh are co-organizers. this while helping his two young sisters to
oral narratives with The first ODF will be combined with the go through school, supporting his family
a distinct ritual yearly event of the WDAAP which includes financially and earning his own living
nature, still remain keynote speeches, academic seminars, expenses by giving 'private tuition' to
hugely popular in workshops, performance and lecture students and earning money dancing with
their own domains, demonstrations, on a single theme, by Shadhona. We've watched him continue
while the urban participants from all over the Asia Pacific, to dance, in spite of all odds. Hanif mostly
dances were further concluding with the Annual General walked to and from home to our studio,
2 dissociated from the Meeting. This year the theme is ‘Bridging a good few kilometres, to save up, and
indigenous practices the Gap’, referring to the ability of dance to rarely spent money on himself. Finally, the
16 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 17Hong Kong 1
report
by Cathy Lau
21st Hong Kong Dance
Awards 'Outstanding
Performance by a Male
Dancer': Shen Jie as
Albrecht in Giselle,
presented by Hong Kong
Ballet. Photo: Conrad 2 3
Dy-Liacco, courtesy of Hong
Kong Ballet
There are lots of exciting happenings in Hong Kong dancers. It was a wonderful
Hong Kong in the first half of 2019. One celebration to acknowledge outstanding
of the highlights was the recent launch of achievements and promote the diversity of
Freespace, a performing arts venue in West the Hong Kong dance industry.
Kowloon Cultural District. As the new centre The Lifetime Achievement Award was
for contemporary performance, Freespace bestowed to the late Dr Tom Brown (1948-
presents and supports thought-provoking, 2018), in recognition of his immeasurable
boundary-pushing, multi-genre productions contribution to the development of
and collaborations. dance in Hong Kong. Tom’s life was one
Freespace has both indoor and outdoor truly dedicated to dance. He nurtured
performing venues, blackbox theatre generations of local dance artists during
The Box, Livehouse live music bar, The his 30-year teaching at the Hong Kong
Room and The Studio. The opening Academy for Performing Arts. 1. 21st Hong Kong
Dance Awards: Gala
season includes a stellar line-up of dance Among the 13 distinguished awardees, Performance. Photo: :
programmes, including: From a True ALICE (in wonderland) by Hong Kong 4 Worldwide Dancer Project
Story – Christian Rizzo, Autobiography by Ballet received three awards: Outstanding 2. 21st Hong Kong
Company Wayne McGregor, ON VIEW: Performance by a Female Dancer, Dance Awards 'Lifetime
Achievement Award'
Panorama, and two residencies with City Outstanding Ensemble Performance and awarded posthumously
Contemporary Dance Company and Hong Outstanding Costume Design Award. to Dr Tom Brown (1948-
Kong Ballet. Tai Kwun, the largest restoration project 2018).
In addition, Karen Cheung took over ever undertaken in Hong Kong, received 3. 21st Hong Kong Dance
Awards 'Outstanding
as the Head of Dance (Performing Arts) both Outstanding Service to Dance and Performance by a
of the West Kowloon Cultural District in Outstanding Small Venue Production Female Dancer': Chen
April. Cheung has worked in the dance Awards. Zhiyao as Alice in
sector for many years, with rich experiences In the coming months, HKDA will ALICE (in wonderland).,
presented by Hong
and key roles in Guangdong Dance organise a workshop series on Writing Kong Ballet. Photo
Festival, Guangdong Modern Dance Dance Movements, produce the ‘New credit: Conrad Dy-Liacco,
Company, Beijing Dance Festival and City Force in Motion’ Series in September courtesy of Hong Kong
Contemporary Dance Company. 2019 as a performance platform to support Ballet.
4. 21st Hong Kong Dance
The 21st Hong Kong Dance Awards young talented choreographers, and attend Awards: group photo
were held in Kwai Tsing Theatre on 18 April, the Ocean Dance Festival and WDAAP of Awardees. Photo:
with a feast of dance by some of the best General Meeting in November. Worldwide Dancer Project
18 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 19India report from both traditional and contemporary
backgrounds. Apart from him, choreographer
by Meghna and multi-disciplinary performance artist
Bhardwaj Sashar Zarif, of Azerbaijani origin, has
been invited as the mentor for the 15-day
Choreolab that is to take place prior to the
beginning of the festival.
One very important aspect of the festival
is the Dance Outreach programme that the
festival has dedicated to generating support
for the Rohingya immigrants from Myanmar,
which also brings light to the political
significance of Bangladesh as a location
for the festival. What it clearly suggests is
the interventionist attitude with which the
organisers have been working, especially
their inclination to imagine dance as a space
for social change and humanitarianism than
as an apolitical realm of unthinking bodies.
Overall, the initiative appears significant
A view of Mermaid
Resort, the main venue of
from the point of view of how it brings one
Ocean Dance Festival and to imagine a more interactive South Asia
the WDAAP AGM 2019. and how it operates as beckoning call
for broadening definitions of centres and
This report is not as much focussed on the facilitated by young members from both peripheries.
events and activities happening within the organisations, rather than the older
the geographical limits of India, but on an generation who have usually had to be at
important exchange that is soon to happen the helms of such organisations before. Of
between WDA India and WDA Bangladesh. course, it bears important reflections for how
This makes this report exciting from the those who have been the decision-makers
point of view of how it effectively dissolves thus far are encouraging an expansion
the idea of nationality-based reports, and of all the selection criteria involved while
therefore starts to encourage important attempting to make it more democratic,
moments of cross-border interactive open, and inclusive. A comprehensive
activities within a more coherent realm of website dedicated to the festival has also
the World Dance Alliance community. At been designed, with a hope that the festival
the moment, WDA India is gearing up for must continue to grow in its future editions.
the Ocean Dance Festival, WDAAP Annual The festival comprises scholarly
General Meeting and conference to be held gatherings that include individual paper
in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, this November. presentations and panel discussions,
So far, a large number of extremely alongside dance performances, under a
interesting participants – research scholars, broad theme ‘Bridging the Gap’. While
dancers, students, choreographers, and curating the performances, the organisers
Different spaces for
administrators, from India as well as from have been thoughtful in encouraging more studio performances
other parts of the world – have registered younger artists to bring their short-works in at Mermaid Resort, the
for the event. Students and faculty from progress, rather than aiming for large-scale main venue of the Ocean
two major universities of India – Presidency productions, so that the new space they are Dance Festival, at Cox's
Bazar, Bangladesh, in
University in Kolkata, and Jawaharlal trying to generate can stay experimental, Nov 2019.
University in Delhi, who together form the intimate, and comfortable for each one to
WDA India Chapter – have been co-involved participate in informal conversations that
in overseeing the organisation of the event, are far more effective in encouraging new
while being in constant negotiation with ideas and friendly associations than the more
Nrityajog and the Ocean Dance Festival formal ones.
Conference Committee in Bangladesh. In terms of the festival’s leadership scale,
This team has welcomed most of the the organisers have been successful
applications it has received in order to in inviting the renowned international
ensure that this opportunity is available to choreographer of Bangladeshi origin, Akram
as many participants as possible. The work Khan, to be the keynote speaker and to
has been extremely smooth, and has been address the dance enthusiasts and writers
20 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 21Malaysia Other committee projects are also bearing from France, introduced their brand
report fruit, including Langkah, which was launched of experimental hip hop, following a
by former committee member David Lim. performance in Kuala Lumpur in April
by Bilqis Hijjas Current committee member Leng Poh Gee 2019. This was also a partnership project,
has successfully attained a grant from the organised by MyDance committee member
National Department of Arts and Culture Dalila Samad with Alliance Française de
to produce two more editions of this Kuala Lumpur.
publication, which presents writing about We look forward to many more projects
contemporary dance process and practice in like these, bringing different facets of the
Malaysia, in a bilingual format. Malaysian and the global dance community
Our other projects continue, including together.
our Small Grants program. It is always a
pleasure to be able to partner with other
A workshop on dances organisations to maximise the assistance Works from the Dancebox
of Azerbaijan and Festival at Kuala
Uzbekistan by Sashar
that our Small Grants can provide. Recently,
Lumpur Performing Arts
Zarif, organised by Alliance Française de Kuala Lumpur offered Centre, 11-14 April 2019,
Nusantara Performing a scholarship for one Malaysian dancer to produced by MyDance
Arts Centre in partnership participate in the Camping dance training Alliance in partnership
with MyDance Alliance, with The Actors Studio:
at Five Arts Centre, Kuala
event in Paris; our Small Grant was able to
1. Fatin Nadhirah binti
Lumpur, in June 2019. help Silver Yee to attend. We also gave a Rahmat and Muhd Nur
Photo: Bilqis Hijjas Small Grant to Nadhirah Rahmat, to attend a 1 Azammudin Tumiran in
workshop in Hofesh Schechter repertoire in Aris Kadir's 'Nasi Putih',
In an under-resourced and largely self- Centre, and featured 28 short works by Perth, generously supported by Paul Selwyn restaged by Norsafini
Jafar, in Program A:
funded community like ours, dance about 200 dancers, ranging from classical Norton and STRUT Dance, the National Classic Restages. Photo:
practitioners operate within their own ballet to contemporised Minangkabau plate Choreographic Centre of Western Australia. Huneid Tyeb
little circles of mutual support. These dance, and from a cutting-edge criticism Canadian dancer and dance-scholar 2. 'Ruakhua Tlaak
personal networks are often based on ties of modern consumerism accompanied by Sashar Zarif came through Malaysia on (Bamboo Dance),
performed by the Chin
of language, ethnicity or religion. While rocking live music, to a contemplative solo his way to the IETM meeting in Bangkok Student Organization
this strategy allows our dance cultures to dance in the classical Chinese tradition by a recently, and thanks to the World Dance of Cheras Center,
survive, even to thrive, it also creates silos. dancer who uses a wheelchair. Our program Alliance network, Prof Mohd Anis Md Nor organized by ANJEZ Art
Young Chinese dancers fighting for a place began with looking back on some of the and his team at Nusantara Performing Arts Project, in Program C:
Dance in the Community.
at prestigious national Chinese dance most significant companies and individuals Research Centre (NusPARC) were able to Photo: James Quah
competitions are only ever seen by an ethnic involved in the development of contemporary organise a special workshop by Sashar to 3. 'Anak Angkat',
Chinese audience. Indian classical dance dance in Malaysia, encompassed the dances introduce his unique vision of Central Asian choreographed by
practitioners seldom realise how much embedded in various ethnic communities, dance to the Malaysian dance community. Mohd Nuriqram,
performed by Syamil
they share with classical ballet dancers. and concluded with a glimpse of works by MyDance Alliance was happy to partner in bin Norzalahuddin,
Contemporary dancers in Sabah, at one emerging choreographers. presenting this workshop, sharing a type of in Program D: New
end of the country, may have neither met nor We were also pleased to share the dance which is little seen even in Malaysia's Dances/New Faces.
heard of their counterparts in Johor, at the fruits of two of our committee projects diverse dance world, but which resonates This work premiered
in the 'Dancing Alone'
other end. during the Dancebox Festival. Committee here thanks to shared Islamic spiritual roots. project at NOW Theatre
Creating unity within this diversity is a real member Lau Beh Chin has been giving Another international dance workshop, in March 2019. Photo:
challenge; it is here that MyDance Alliance free dance classes to young people from by the dancers of Art Move Concept Huneid Tyeb
plays an important role in the local dance the Chin refugee community, with the
ecosystem. By organising events which cut help of MyDance members and interns. 2 3
across community boundaries, especially The students performed a traditional Chin
highlighting contemporary dance in its varied bamboo dance in the festival's Dance in the
manifestations, we hope to bring people Community segment.
together on the same stage. Using the Committee vice president JS Wong and
MyDance Festivals of the past as a blueprint, committee member Mohd Faillul Adam
this year we presented the Dancebox collaborated on a project entitled Dancing
Festival, a combined celebration of 30 years Alone, mentoring the creation of short
of The Actors Studio (the local theatre solo dance works. After a choreographic
organisation which co-presents Dancebox) workshop and several rounds of presentation
as well as 18 years of Dancebox itself, which accompanied by critique earlier this year,
was first presented in 2001 in a tiny theatre nine choreographers presented their crafted
space, literally underground, at Dataran solos at a free showing at NOW Theatre in
Merdeka. March. Three of these works made their way
The Dancebox Festival ran from 11 to to the New Dances/New Faces segment of
14 April at Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts the Dancebox Festival.
22 Asia – Pacific Channels | June 2019 June 2019 | Asia – Pacific Channels 23You can also read
