Esplanade Presents

Music

Resonance of Tradition: Gamelan Meets Dikir Barat

Republic Polytechnic’s Gamelan Naga Kencana and Dikir Barat (Singapore)

3 Apr 2026, Fri, 5.45pm & 6.45pm

30mins

(Intermission: None)

Esplanade Concourse

Free
not cache
Synopsis

Step into a mesmerising evening where two rich Southeast Asian musical traditions converge. The shimmering metallic tones of the gamelan ensemble, with its intricate layers of gongs and metallophones, will transport audiences into a meditative soundscape rooted in Javanese heritage. In contrast, the vibrant rhythms and powerful choral energy of dikir barat, a traditional Malay performance art, will ignite the stage with its dynamic call-and-response singing and percussive clapping.

 

Performed by Republic Polytechnic’s Gamelan Naga Kencana and Dikir Barat groups, these performances celebrate the diversity of regional artistry, weaving stories of community, spirituality, and cultural pride through Southeast Asian musical heritage.

Language: Malay
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

Gamelan Naga Kencana (GNK)

Instagram

Gamelan Naga Kencana (GNK) was formed in 2007 under Mr Amran Ahmad Sowyan, a pioneer member of Gamelan Asmaradana. GNK has performed at major platforms including Reflections Arts Festival, the Gamelan Circle at the Malay Heritage Centre, as well as collaborations with renowned groups like Nadi Singapura and more.

Dikir Barat (DKRP)

Instagram

Dikir Barat (DKRP) was established in 2007 with an all-female Endang Ratiana and the all-male Wira. Wira has been the Piala Suara Serumpun champion in the male category for nine consecutive years, while Endang Ratiana placed the top three in Piala Suara Serumpun several years and recently secured 2nd place in the Piala Seni Dikir in 2024. Together, both ensembles celebrate heritage, artistic excellence, and cross-genre collaboration in Singapore’s arts scene.

Date & Time

3 Apr 2026, Fri

5.45pm

Esplanade Concourse

6.45pm

Esplanade Concourse
ESPLANADE&ME

Become a member

Three membership cards depicting each membership tier, Discover, White and Black.

Great arts experiences begin with Esplanade&Me. Join this membership to enjoy ticket specials on shows at Esplanade, early bird specials, promotions at Esplanade Mall, unlimited access to Offstage and more.

Never miss a show again. Get on our mailing list.