Step into a rich world of movement and storytelling through this immersive masterclass that bridges traditional Javanese and Indonesian dance vocabularies with contemporary performance practices by Indonesia choreographer, Dian Bokir.

Participants will cultivate a deep awareness of posture, gesture and expressive form, rooted in regional heritage. Through deconstruction and reimagining, they will explore how these traditional forms can seamlessly flow into improvisation, ensemble work and innovative choreographic structures.

The session integrates cross-disciplinary techniques—from bodywork and floorwork to martial arts elements like pencak silat—encouraging participants to push the boundaries of creative expression. Guided improvisations will draw on personal and cultural narratives, opening up fresh pathways for choreography.

This masterclass also invites reflection on the ethics of cultural adaptation, exploring how authenticity and innovation can coexist in contemporary Southeast Asian dance.

By the end of the session, participants will leave with: 

• A deeper understanding of the body in both traditional and contemporary contexts.

• Practical tools to bridge heritage and innovation in their own practice.

• A short modular choreography or improvisation that reflects their unique cultural encounter. 

This workshop is open to dancers, theatre practitioners, physical actors and educators, both emerging and experienced, who are interested in exploring cross-cultural and contemporary Southeast Asian dance practices.

Muara Festival is presented by Era Dance Theatre in collaboration with Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay as part of Esplanade’s Pentas series.