Preview: Masterpiece in Motion 2021 by Singapore Dance Theatre

The Singapore Dance Theatre (SDT) is back this September to celebrate its 33rd Anniversary Season as the premier professional dance company in Singapore. Returning to the Esplanade Theatre for a weekend, get ready for the 33rd Anniversary Season performance of their annual Masterpiece in Motion performance, with three of their most celebrated works.

Revel in the company’s artistic eminence this season as it brings to the stage three remarkable works. Opening the evening is Momentum by legendary Singaporean choreographer Choo-San Goh, followed by the mesmerising Swipe by Val Caniparoli, as well as Natalie Weir’s explosive piece, Jabula.

The evening begins with ballet legend Goh Choo-San’s Momentum, marking the first time it will be performed since 2007. Choo-San was born in 1948 and received the Cultural Medallion in 1986 for his contributions to dance. Momentum first premiered on 19th January 1979 by the Joffrey II Dancers, and SDT first performed it in 1992.

Next up, SDT will perform American choreographer Val Caniparoli’s Swipe. Last performed in 2020, Val is no stranger to the company, and has worked with SDT since Lambarena in 1998. The company performed the World Premiere of his work, Chant, in 2012. Swipe was last performed by SDT at the Virtual Fundraiser in 2020, which was held on Zoom with more than 200 patrons in attendance. This Virtual Fundraiser marked a modern take on fundraising for a non-profit organisation.

Finally, end off the evening with Jabula by Natalie Weir. Performed in 2016, Jabula was created for Queensland Ballet, and it is part of the repertoire at The Australian Ballet Dancer’s Company and the American Ballet Theatre. Jabula is an African word meaning “joy”, and this work borrows movements from tribal dance forms, as a celebration of the dancers’ energy and spirit. A highly theatrical and explosive piece, Jabula highlights the dancers’ athleticism. Jabula uses a syncopated choral and percussive score originally composed for the film “The Power of One” , one that is stunning and forceful, with powerful vocals. The dance features a cast of eleven dancers comprising five men and six women, and together they generate a stunning flow of energy, perhaps representing a rite of passage or a celebratory ritual.

Marking the first Season performance since Romeo and Juliet in March 2020, make a date with SDT this September, and catch these masterpieces take to the stage, live at the Esplanade Theatre.

Masterpiece in Motion 2021 plays from 24th to 26th September 2021 at the Esplanade Theatre. Tickets available from SISTIC