Tell us a bit about Five Alone — how was it conceptualised? What can the audience expect?
Five Alone represents five solo dance pieces by five different choreographers. They’ve infused their own experiences and understanding of life into each of these individual pieces. The audience will be treated to an experience that explores the imagination and heightens the senses.
How did you guys come up with each piece for the performance?
We developed the dances individually, but managed to weave all the different threads together through several meetings and — of course — rehearsals.
You’re working with Steve Goh, Eden Lim, Low Shee Hoe and Judimar Hernandez on this. What’s it like working with such a team?
We learned a lot from each other. It was totally crazy while we were brainstorming the concept, though!
Any diva’s among the group?
No, we’re all pretty much the same, and this whole project was a good chance to interact with each other.
Lapar Lab — who came up with that name? Tell us a bit about the group.
Low Shee Hoe and Leng Poh Gee came up with ‘LAPAR’: ‘local artist performing arts region’. They are also the founders of the group.
Who’s the practical joker of the lot?
She Hoe.
Who the noisiest?
She Hoe again!
Your own piece, ‘Wall’, which premiered at Japan Dance Wave Fukuoka 2006, will be making an appearance in Five Alone. Tell us about it.
It delights me that dance is such a universal language, and that body movements can be understood and appreciated by people of different countries and cultures. The interpretation may differ of course, but you still manage to create an impact on the audience.
How was Japan? What was the whole experience like?
Great! It was a wonderful experience. I got the chance to meet and interact with other Asian artists. I really admire them for their professionalism — especially the Japanese.
What do you feel about the dance scene in Malaysia?
I always believe that tomorrow will be a better day.
Do you have a day job?
I’m currently a dance teacher.
Who are some of your influences?
Anyone can be my reference.
What are you up to next?
I’m just going to continue enjoying my life.
First Published: 19.12.2006 on Kakiseni