We sit as audience in a space. A performance begins. It takes us into a new realm of experience. It provokes. It stimulates. It irritates. It illuminates. It educates. It entertains…. or not. We imagine. We wonder. We reflect. We consider and re-consider. In that liminal space, we are transformed. The performance ends. The experience lingers. The discourse begins….and continues…
Performance making is a collaborative effort among many people – director, choreographer, composer, designers of set, sound, costume, lights, make-up, multimedia, graphics; stage manager, production manager, technical manager, crew…. the list goes on. The team must work together to realise a vision. This might be the ‘singular’ vision of the director, but this can only be achieved when everyone works creatively towards this. In the final analysis, it is seldom a ‘singular’ vision. It is one that is layered with multiple input, multiple meanings and interpretations. Performance making is community.
Congratulations to the Faculty of Theatre of ASWARA on this Performance Design Exchange. This Exchange is probably the first of its kind in Malaysia, where we are highlighting and interrogating the design elements that go into the staging of a performance. It’s an exciting departure from the norm.
This Performance Design Exchange brings together a wide range of artists – designers, as well as directors, choreographers, writers, dramaturgs, moderators – to discuss their work, workshop, jam, improvise, watch, and delve into how design elements work towards realising a performance. We hear from artists we seldom hear from. It is our desire to connect with industry practitioners, so that we enhance the discourse between ASWARA, other universities and the arts industry. It is our desire to build and expand community.
In this Exchange, we look at the theme of Designing Malaysia – now is indeed a potent time to ‘design’ and ‘re-design’ Malaysia, as we embark on a new journey with a new government. It is an urgent time in Malaysia. Indeed, it is an urgent time in the world. Artists have a crucial part to play in nation building. Let us never underestimate our role.
I would like to end with something written by Shawn Renee Lent, a Social Practice Dance Artist. I quote:
“When it comes to diplomacy, an artist needs to be at the table.
When it comes to the Board of Directors or a School Board, an artist needs to be at the table.
When it comes to sustainability policy, an artist needs to be at the table.
When it comes to facing death, an artist needs to be at the table.
Artists need to be in on...
Cancer research and treatment
Conflict prevention, mediation and resolution
Inter-religious and Inter-cultural dialogue and education
Military training and homecoming
Youth development
Addressing racism and bigotry
Community development and organizing
Divided and insular communities
Hospitals, prisons/detention facilities, corporations, public schools
City planning, housing and urban development
Policing and crime prevention
Parades and festivals
Education and professional development
Elder care, day care...
The artistic contribution to these areas can be revolutionary…….
The dream is huge."
I hope that this Performance Design Exchange will be a stimulating and enriching time for all.
Marion F. D’Cruz
Faculty of Dance
ASWARA