BATU unfolds through the female body in domestic and ritual spaces, with the kitchen as a central site: a place that shapes, controls, and also empowers. Through movement and voice, two artists negotiate tradition, restraint, devotion, intimacy, shame, pleasure, sacrifice, and healing.

At the centre of these negotiations is the stone (batu). More than a kitchen tool, it becomes a witness, a sacred sign, and a keeper of ancestral knowledge. Held close to the body, the grinding stone carries memories across generations, revealing habits, wounds, and histories embedded within matrilineal lineage.

Moving between sensuality and spirituality, limits and power, BATU emerges as an offering: a space for being together—with care, presence, and contemplation.

A collaboration between Ayu Permata Sari (Indonesia) and Hasyimah Harith (Singapore).

BATU by Ayu Permata Sari and Hasyimah Harith is commissioned by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay (Singapore) and co-produced by Performance Space (Australia).

This work has been developed with the support of the Contemporary Performing Arts Research Residency by Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay, supported by the National Arts Council, Singapore

This programme is presented as part of da:ns focus – Connect Asia Now (CAN), a weekend that spotlights contemporary dance works created by or in collaboration with Asian artists, focusing on distinct voices and creative impulses from the region.

Production Credits

Choreographer & Performer: Ayu Permata Sari & Hasyimah Harith

Dramaturg: aRco Renz

Sound Artist: Rosemainy Buang

Costume Designer: Widi Asari

Assistant Costume Designer: Siti Nurjamilah

Lighting Designer: Emanorwatty Saleh

Production Manager: Izz Sumono

Stage Manager: Syuhadah Yahaya

Producer: Fezhah Maznan, CurrentSEA

Asst Producer: Nur Arianty Djonaede

Poster Designer: Perempuan Melawan Art

Trailer Videographer & Editor: Shafiee Shadan