From September 25 to 28, the stage is set for da:ns focus – Connect Asia Now, back at the Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay for a weekend that proves Asian contemporary dance is anything but predictable. Now in its third edition, the series features electrifying performances by leading Asian artists. Whether you’re a curious first-timer or a seasoned dancer, here are three must-see shows that will have you riveted one moment and ready to move the next.
Make your way to the Singtel Waterfront Theatre at Esplanade, where Australian collective Chunky Move unleashes U>N>I>T>E>D from September 26 to 28. Brace yourself for a thrilling collision of pounding beats, animatronic visuals, and otherworldly choreography as six dancers fuse body, machine, and spirit in a mesmerising exploration of machine mysticism. The performance is set to original compositions by Gabber Modus Operandi, trailblazers in the Balinese experimental music scene.
For something more intimate but no less powerful, Thai dancer and choreographer Pichet Klunchun presents Chapter 2 at Esplanade Annexe Studio, from September 27 and 28. In this riveting solo, he reflects on a lifetime of performance while asking if artificial intelligence can ever truly capture human feeling. The result is haunting, raw and unforgettable.
Finally, Singapore-born, Berlin-based artist Choy Ka Fai returns with SoftMachine: The Return at Esplanade Theatre Studio from September 26 to 28. Watch him bring together a decade of dance experimentation, seen through the eyes of five leading Asian artists: Rianto (Indonesia), Surjit Nongmeikapam (India), Xiao Ke x Zihan (China), and Yuya Tsukahara (Japan). Expect a heartfelt, forward-looking celebration of identity, collaboration and artistic rebellion.
Add to that free talks and ticketed workshops across the Esplanade, and you’ve got a crash course in Asia’s most exciting movers. Tickets start from $25 – get yours here.