Choy Ka Fai

Postcolonial Spirits

Indonesian, Dutch, with English subtitles

    75 min

    As part of his ongoing project “CosmicWander”, Berlin­based Singaporean artist Choy Ka Fai offers a new perspective on the Indonesian folk dance – Dolalak. Originating from the island of Java, Dolalak has continuously adapted to pop culture and evolved with social media. It stems from traditional Javanese dance mixed with imitations of colonial Dutch soldiers at cosplay parties in the 1930s. The trance ritual is accompanied by songs of local myths, political banter and Islamic poems.

    Inspired by the multi­dimensional heritage of Dolalak, “Postcolonial Spirits” presents a telepresence experience with the performers from Java, who are connected via livestream and the performer Vincent Riebeek, who is present live in Berlin. In perceiving established cultural and historical rituals through the lens of contemporary technology, Choy opens up a liminal space in which dance transcends colonial resistance, power and fantasy.

     

    “Aside from the performance “Postcolonial Spirits”, Tanz im August will present the exhibition, “CosmicWander: Expedition” at KINDL – Zentrum für zeitgenössische Kunst from 6 – 22 August.

    Cast

    Concept, Documentary, Narration, Direction: Choy Ka Fai / Supernatural presence: Raden Mas Sosro / Dramaturgy: Tang Fukuen / Choreography & Performance: Vincent Riebeek, Andri Kurniawan / Assistant director: Darlane Litaay / Music & Sound Composer: Yennu Ariendra / Live Music Performer: J. Mo'ong Santosa Pribadi / Vocalists: Nova Ruth, Andri Kurniawan / 3D Visual design & Technology: Brandon Tay / Visual artist: Sven Gareis / telematique / Light design, Installation, Technical direction: Ray Tseng / Set design: Dan Lancea / Props design: Soy Division / Costume (Berlin): Justyna Gmitrzuk / Costume tailoring (Indonesia): Mr.Harjito / Heritage consultation: Dolalak Budi Santoso Group / Research Assistant: Sanne van Aalderen / Project manager: Mara Nedelcu / Production manager, Research & Translation (Indonesia): Sekar Handayani / Creative producer (Indonesia): Jala Adolphus / Administration: Franziska Hauser

    Dates

    Past

    Further Information

    Visitor note
    Notes:

    Due to an extensive PCR testing regime for SARS-CoV-2, the performers can move on stage in this production without minimum distance.

    Credits

    Location

    HAU1
    Stresemannstr. 29, 10963 Berlin

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    HAU3000 / Positions, Projects, Publications