In this workshop, dance maestro Didik Nini Thowok will share his experience and creative processes behind his monumental work Bedhaya Hagoromo. In this work that highlights the collaboration between Java and Japan, various knowledge is embedded within the manifolds of its process. From the formalization of its concepts, philosophical meeting of the different cultures, to the artistic and technical choices that build the tonal unity of the artist. Participants will also be invited to taste the Javanese and Japanese dance techniques collided within the dancer’s bodies within this work. From Bedhaya Hagoromo as a case study, participants will also be involved in dialogue to dive deep and look at the secrets and strategies of Didik Nini Thowok in navigating the journeys of his works that often involved inter-cultural collaborations.
Participants are expected to bring their own plain fans to be used during the workshop.
Retno Sulistyorini
Retno Sulistyorini began learning dance at the age of 15 at the Indonesian Karawitan High School (SMKI) Surakarta, and continued to study dance at the Indonesian Art Institute (ISI) Surakarta. As a dance artist, Retno was awarded the Empowering Women Artist by the Kelola Foundation (2010-2011). Apart from creating her own works, she also actively collaborates with other choreographers, directors and artists.