Eko Supriyanto

Eko Supriyanto’s dance style is characterised by its unique, pared-down form. The often rhythmic movements draw on traditional dance but speak a contemporary language. Supriyanto considers that dance must also be about humanity. There was already an opportunity to see ‘Cry Jailolo’ last year, during ‘Stop in Java’. This performance featuring seven young men from Jailolo was an indictment of the destruction of life in the ocean. For ‘Balabala’, Supriyanto returns to this bay in the Moluccas and sets to work afresh with the local population. Five young women draw inspiration from 'pencak silat' philosophy. The nine directions in this martial art stand for the different roles played by woman in society. ‘Balabala’, a deSingel co-production, is an ode to female power.