Unity via multi-ethnic dances

Kuala Lumpur - THE Dance Department of the National Arts, Culture and Heritage Academy (Aswara) in Jalan Tun Ismail, Kuala Lumpur, will be organising Asyik – The Beauty Of Classical Dance from Dec 14 to 16.

Asyik is a continuation of its highly successful namesake last year, which won Aswara a Boh Cameronian Audience Choice Award for Best Dance Production.

This year, Aswara has chosen to showcase multi-ethnic Malaysian classical dances by weaving various dances into a magical yet simple dance drama.

Its artistic director, Joseph Gonzales, said: “The title of the show refers to the mesmerising and hypnotic quality of classical dance that has its roots in the palace or temple traditions.

“We aim to preserve traditions and our show highlights facets of Malay, Chinese and Indian classical dance styles."

For this performance, studio work and practice are transferred to the Aswara auditorium with help from choreographers and instructors Umesh Shetty, Wong Kit Yaw, Hajijah Yaacob, Vatsala Sivadas, Shafirul Azmi Suhaimi, Firdaus Mustapha Kamal and Sharip Zainal Sagkif Shek.

The music directors are Kumar Karthigesu and Shahrizan Sahamat.

Bharatanatyam and Chinese classical dances thrive within their respective communities and are well-known to Malaysian audiences through the work of organisations such as the Sutra Dance Theatre and Temple of Fine Arts.

“Aswara intends to educate young performers and expose them to a variety of genres,” said Gonzales.

He said the Dance Department aspires to present a show that both educates and entertains.

“We are determined to bring dance to new audiences and break the racial divides that are reflected in the audience composition.”

Gonzales said the process of staging traditional dance began with smaller showcases over the past three years such as Malam Terinai, Dari Mengadap Rebab Ke Moden and Jendela.

Source: www.nst.com.my (22 November 2007)
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