THREE dance companies are joining forces to present a multifaceted performance that will also support efforts to manage stray animals.
The collaboration between Sutra Foundation, Dua Space Dance Theatre and DiDance will see Genggaman staged at Sutra House, Kuala Lumpur, from Oct 23 to 25.
This will be followed by a performance at Kompleks JKKN Seremban in Negri Sembilan on Oct 31.
Celebrating Malaysia’s shared cultural heritage, the production draws on Indian classics, Malay traditional and contemporary performing arts, and Chinese-influenced contemporary dance, choreographed by Datuk Ramli Ibrahim, Anthony Meh, Aman Yap and Zaridah Abdul Mallik.
More than a dance production, Genggaman aspires to become a cultural statement, affirming that Malaysia’s greatest strength lies not in the uniformity of its cultures, but in the harmony of their coexistence, its show notes read.
Ramli said the show would explore how these distinct art forms could engage in a creative dialogue while retaining their individual character and integrity.
“Art is able to unite people and has a way of bringing people together,” he said.
One of the performances by Sutra will feature a thilana (rhythmic dance piece) accompanied by live saxophone music, while Dua Space Dance Theatre led by Meh and Yap brings to the stage a contemporary Chinese dance performance.
Meh said he had been a big fan of Ramli since his younger days and recalled travelling by bus from his hometown in Johor to Kuala Lumpur just to watch Ramli perform.
He said he was honoured to collaborate with Ramli on the production.
Zaridah said part of the Malay dance performance by DiDance would pay tribute to her late friend Farid Ali, also known as Mr Gambus.
Meanwhile, on the show’s support for charity, Ramli said Sutra was concerned about animal welfare and animal rights.
“The trap-neuter-vaccinate-return/rehome-manage (TNVRM) project in Sections 16 and 17 of Petaling Jaya, Selangor, promotes a humane and sustainable approach to managing stray dogs and cats.
“Part of the proceeds from the show will go towards supporting this effort,” said Ramli.
He urged greater compassion towards animals, particularly in view of local councils’ budget allocations for catching strays.
For performance details, call 019-333 1092 (Sutra Foundation).
