Load ? ~ Ayu Permata Dance Project

Synopsis of LOAD

Choreographer Ayu Permata Sari

Ayu’s going back to North Lampung after 10 years wandering is the starting point of this work. As a woman who was born and growing up within Lampung Pepadun society, there are many expectations put on her, especially related to marriage issues. Marriage for Lampung’s people is a clear reflection to represent how woman and man are put within social construction. In their marriage mythology, it is structured by some binary opposition for instance “Piil” (pride) and “Liyom” (shy), “Cangget” (traditional wedding of begawi for woman) and “Igol” (traditional wedding of begawi for man), etc. Based on Ayu’s observation, these binaries opposition are expected to keep stability of society. Meanwhile, practically there are found various stigma and inequality from this established structure. Making a distance with this social construction can make Ayu has a space to reflect herself subjectively. However, when she came closer to become more empathy, it emerges her consciousness to be more strategic in mapping her position and decision. She decided neither to be radically rebelling, nor enduring so hard, but she chooses to prioritize her consciousness. Thus, “Load?” will catch the reflection and Ayu’s consciousness through the exploration of Sigeh Punguten dance, observation of Lampung Pepadun social construction, and her family background.

Artistic and Production Team