Asian Theatre Festival

Asian Theatre Festival

SYDNEY — The second Sydney Asian Theatre Festival continues at the Belvoir Street Theatre until October 1. Five unusual and intriguing presentations are offered.

The Return, by Ta Duy Binh, is a poetic performance piece using music, movement, text and shamanistic ritual to explore the ways in which we remember and the power of memory. It was inspired by the plight of Vietnamese migrants.

An exploration and synthesis of traditional Indonesian mask dancing with contemporary dance is performed by Monica Wulff in Full Circle, with live percussion music by Suhandi Kosasih. Two performances only, September 20 and 21.

The Cantata of the Warrior Woman — Daragang Magayon, performed by Merlinda Bobis, is a dramatic retelling of an epic poem from southern Luzon, in which "Beautiful Maiden" transforms herself into "Warrior Woman". Three performances only, September 23-25.

Nicholas Jose's drama Dead City gets its world premiere in the festival in this Q Theatre production. In Shanghai today, four extraordinary people play out a tight quartet of dreams, desires and emotional manipulations.

Ashok Roy and the Odissi Dance Company perform An Evening of Indian Classical Dance and Music, over four nights only, September 28 to October 1. Pull up a cushion and enjoy the performance in a classical Indian setting.

After-show discussions will be available following some performances. For more information or to book, ring (02) 699 3444.

From GLW issue 159