WOMAD

Pact-Bambusa

From Singapore

The People’s Association Cultural Talents (PACT) is Singapore’s first multi-ethnic performing group that was formed to play a central leading role in sustaining and enhancing the cultural needs and activities for the community. The first unit of PACT was formed in 1965. Bambusa, formed under PACT, is a dance that uses the bamboo as a common thread to link all the ethnic communities in Singapore. The bamboo is the one item that is commonly found and used by the 3 ethnic communities in their daily lives. The ethnic dancers weave in and out of each other’s dance segments, using the bamboo to create a unique symphony of sights and sound. The different beats become one rhythm. Live drumming by another PACT group, 1 Beats, with their Chinese, Indian, Middle Eastern, African and Latin American percussions, further augments the harmony. Immediately after the smashing crescendo of the world drums, the audience will hear the light tapping sounds of the bamboo. Dancers dressed in traditional garb, carrying bamboo of all shapes and sizes. It is a journey back to our roots, how despite the multi-culturalism, we go beyond all the differences. Beyond the classification as a Chinese, Malay or Indian, the dance highlights the similarities that bind us as one. Audience involvement in the dance is an integral part as dancers move from within audiences, encouraging everyone to become a part of the dance. The dance movements start slow and then gradually build up the momentum to climax in cheers and high-spirited jumps. It’s the perfect opportunity to let down your guard, shout, jump and just enjoy the high energy generated by this dance.