Jagad

Jagad is a contemporary interpretation of the traditional concept of the inner and outer universe from Javanese culture in Indonesia. This multi-layered piece incorporates music by Malaysian-Australian composer Monica Lim with choreography by Javanese-Australian dance maker Melanie Lane and Javanese dancer Rianto.

The audience is separated into two seating areas facing each other, with three transparent screens dissecting the stage. The dancers move around the screens, with live video projected onto the screens behind them. The audiences see a varying mix of dancers directly in front of them and videos of what’s happening on the other side of the screens. This perhaps represents the dichotomy of the inner and outer universe and how they exist together.

Rianto’s moves are strongly influenced by his training in Javanese classical and folk dance styles, often performed with a straight back and symbolic hand gestures. He is methodical and mesmerising to watch. Other cast members, Lilian Steiner, Surekha Krishnan, Mason Kelly, Samuel Harnett-Welk and Damien Meredith move around Rianto. Their movements become quicker and eventually chaotic, juxtaposing the more rhythmic pace at the start of the show.

Jagad brought internationally renowned Javanese dancer Rianto back to Melbourne stages. It was a privilege to see the Japan-based artist share his famous Lengger style, a form of cross gender dance. The decision to merge the Melbourne International Arts Festival into the Rising Festival has, in some opinions, created a gap in high international cultural experiences available in Melbourne. Thankfully Arts House presents a year-round program of dance, theatre, music, sound, new technologies and community projects, albeit on a smaller scale than what’s possible at Arts Centre Melbourne.

Australia’s performing arts scene is flooded by pieces from the United States, United Kingdom and, particularly in dance, European canon. It’s refreshing and exciting to see an original piece celebrating the rich cultural heritage of our nearest neighbour, Indonesia.

https://www.artshouse.com.au/events/jagad/

Sophia Dickinson

Photographer: Tiffany Garvie