This was the world premiere of BALABALA, the Indonesian sister work to CRY JAILOLO. Dressed in black, and part of a remote community in Eastern Indonesia, five young female dancers, during three minutes of complete silence, one by one slowly appeared on stage with all movements done in extreme slow motion. Choreography choices were based on Indonesian martial arts, all founded on the “Pencak Silat” philosophy of the nine directions.
To follow, for each of the many set-pieces, each time presented extremely minimised, stylised rhythmic movement patterns, in 2/4 time or 3/4 time or 4/4 time, with pre-recorded musical accompaniment, with one voice or multiple voices delivering “A cappella music” by singing without instrumental accompaniment. However some later set-pieces also added a loop of electronica or electric bass or bass drums or temple bells or a stringed musical instrument.
Co-commissioned by the AsiaTOPA, Sydney Festival, deSingel Internationale Kunstcampus, TPAM, Mousonturm, Fabrik Potsdam, National Performing Arts Center – National Theater & Concert Hall, Taiwain, R.O.C, Embassy of Denmark, Jakarta and The Keir Foundation. With special thanks to Kommunitas Salihara.
7 & 9 JANUARY AT 8PM
8 & 10 JANUARY AT 6PM
CARRIAGEWORKS
BAY 17
245 WILSON STREET
EVELEIGH 2015