The Actors Studio Seni Teater Rakyat is proud to present the fourth installment of its experimental dance series. Titled KonTra: Yuèguāng 月光, this event will showcase six innovative dance creations inspired by Chinese culture and tradition, occurring from October 24th to 27th, 2024, at Pentas 2, klpac.
Since its inception in 2022, KonTra has honored our heritage while paving the way for the future of Malaysian dance. Each edition is curated by Zhafir Muzani and explores a distinct theme, providing choreographers the chance to infuse creativity and innovation into traditional dance. Previous editions have included inspirations from traditional Malay dance in KonTra: Bianglala, Indian classical dance in KonTra: Asirvatham, and dances from East Malaysia in KonTra: Borneo.
The Moon and KonTra: Yuèguāng
The moon is a prominent symbol in Chinese culture, appearing in festivals and folklore alike. This celestial body serves as the inspiration for the upcoming KonTra: Yuèguāng 月光, where six choreographers were selected from an open call to express their interpretations of Chinese dance and culture.
One of the featured pieces, “huǎng,” by Feyee Bethany, draws upon the legend of Chang’e (嫦娥), the wife of renowned archer Hou Yi, who became the Moon Goddess after consuming an elixir of immortality. According to legend, the couple reunites on the full moon of the eighth lunar month during the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Wong Chi Ying, a graduate from the Beijing Dance Academy and part-time lecturer at ASWARA, presents “Threads of Longing, Where Do They Lead?” This piece pays homage to the moon’s mystical role as a matchmaker (月老) in Chinese tradition. Through fluid movements, the dancers express their hopes and wishes for love, gathering beneath the moon’s gaze.
Nicholas Low, a dance graduate from the University of Malaya with 15 years of experience, explores themes of longing and separation in “Lunar Eclipse.” In this piece, the moon represents the object of desire, while the Earth’s shadow symbolizes the obstacles—be it trauma, distance, or time—that stand in the way.
Shan Tie, a soloist with ASK Dance Company who has performed across continents, presents “Lines, Circles, and Cycles.” This piece examines the rhythms of life through repetitive movements and patterns, illustrating the choices we make and the paths we take, as well as the balance between consistency and divergence in our journeys.
Drawing inspiration from the mythic lunar goddess Chang Xi (常羲), Chinese dance expert Kar Kah Chan’s “Crescents” utilizes traditional pheasant feathers from one of the oldest ritual dances, Yu Wu, to reinterpret ancient moon-summoning ceremonies. This piece reflects on the evolution of Chinese dance through the phases of the moon.
Rounding out this vibrant lineup is “Nán Gā Nán Lèng” (Shout to the Moon in the Dai language) by Matt Tan, Artistic Director of WUXU Dance Troupe. His piece delves into the sacrificial rituals of the Huayao Dai people, who hold the belief that all beings possess spirits. Incorporating movements from Dai ethnic traditions, this work serves as a heartfelt homage to the Moon God.
In total, over 40 dancers will bring KonTra: Yuèguāng 月光 to life, potentially making it the largest ensemble ever featured in this series.
Schools and students are encouraged to apply for sponsored student tickets to experience KonTra: Yuèguāng 月光 through the klpac Connect programme, supported by Yayasan Sime Darby, aimed at enhancing access to the arts.
Tickets for KonTra: Yuèguāng 月光 are available at prices ranging from RM50 to RM100, with student tickets priced at RM30. The preview night on October 24th is priced at RM40. Tickets can be purchased online through CloudJoi.
