Events – Pesta Raya – Malay Festival of Arts 2025

Esplanade Presents

Masterclass

Masterclass with Hartati

Hartati (Indonesia)

3 May 2025, Sat, 11am

2hrs

(Intermission: None)

Esplanade Rehearsal Studio (Meeting Point: Theatre Studio, Level 4, 15mins before start time)

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Synopsis
Synopsis

Acclaimed Indonesian choreographer Hartati invites participants into a rare masterclass exploring her creative approach in Jarum Dalam Jerami (Needle in a Haystack). Known for her thoughtful interplay between tradition and innovation, Hartati’s choreography intricately fuses traditional Indonesian dance forms with contemporary techniques—embodying her critical engagement with cultural values and social norms in today’s Indonesia.

 

Participants will explore selected movement segments from Jarum dalam Jerami (Needle in a Haystack) and experience the layered techniques Hartati has developed over the years. These techniques are the result of decades of movement exploration and embodiment, rooted in Minang dance and silek (Minangkabau martial arts) as her primary corporeal foundation, while also drawing from a wide range of other Indonesian traditional dances and various modern techniques she has studied throughout her career.

Advisory:

This workshop is by invitation only.

Language: Bahasa Indonesia, English
Things to Note:
Accessibility: All our venues are wheelchair-accessible. We offer various services to support patrons with access needs. For assistance, please contact Esplanade Customer Experience at 6828 8377. To learn more, read our accessibility guide.
Artist Information

Hartati

Instagram

Hartati is a celebrated Indonesian choreographer whose work bridges the rich traditions of Minangkabau culture with contemporary dance. Raised in West Sumatra, she was deeply influenced by her mentor, Gusmiati Suid, who shaped her approach to choreography—rooted in tradition yet boldly innovative.

 

Blending traditional forms with modern techniques, Hartati explores pressing social issues, creating space for marginalised voices within Indonesia’s conservative cultural landscape. Her work highlights the complexities of identity, where gender, class, ethnicity and generational experiences intersect.

 

Her acclaimed choreographic works have graced prestigious stages such as the Jakarta Arts Building, Teater Salihara and the Indonesian Dance Festival, as well as numerous international festivals. Known for her ability to merge heritage with contemporary aesthetics, she has become one of Indonesia’s most influential dance figures. In 2020, her contributions to the arts were recognized with The Indonesian Cultural Award from the Indonesian government.

Date & Time

3 May 2025, Sat

11am

Esplanade Rehearsal Studio
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