August 30, 2023

The Department of Southeast Asian Studies at NUS is pleased to announce a performance of a Balinese spectacular dance drama on 17 November 2023.

The story of Sutasoma is a Buddhist poem that was composed in 14^th century Java. It tells of the wanderings of Sutasoma and his strange group of friends: a tiger, a dragon and a flesh eating elephant-headed demon. The story revolves around the theme of loving kindness and compassion for all living things while showcasing the idea of Unity in Diversity. To Indonesians, Sutasoma is the source of the country’s national ideology.

In this dance drama, students from SE2224, a class in the Department of Southeast Asian Studies taught by Associate Professor Irving Johnson, will be joined by a team of 15 dancers and musicians from Bali, as well as other NUS students and faculty who have a passion for all things theatrical. The NUS students developed their skills in Balinese acting and dancing while on a one-week fieldtrip to the island in September. This grand production is a one-time only Premier, having never been performed. Come prepared to be dazzled by splendid costumes, amazing dancing, fantastic beasts and hypnotic music as we bring a slice of Bali to NUS!

Tickets at $20 can be reserved from Associate Professor Irving Johnson at 98785874.