Dealing in Distance

Gambuh Masutasoma, Bumi Bajra, group dance, 30 minutes

Gambuh Masutasoma emerged as a creative response to the continuity of the classical Gambuh art form, particularly as it has developed in Budakeling Village, Bebandem District, Karangasem Regency. Budakeling Village serves as the main source of inspiration for the choreographer, drawing upon the Sutasoma textual tradition while also highlighting practices of tolerance reflected in the harmonious relationship between the Muslim community of Saren Jawa Village and the people of Budakeling. Through this performance, Gambuh Masutasoma seeks to actualize the values embodied in the national motto “Bhinneka Tunggal Ika” (Unity in Diversity).

The performance presents a synthesis of classical Gambuh, Burdah and Rudat arts, and Sufi dance. The integration of these diverse artistic elements reflects processes of cultural acculturation while emphasizing the value of tolerance. The main narrative of Gambuh Masutasoma is drawn from the Sutasoma text, conveying the message that love and tolerance are invaluable treasures in realizing a peaceful life—a “heaven on earth.”

Choreographer: Ida Ayu Wayan Arya Satyani
Production Team: Bumi Bajra

Bibingka (2026), Alvin Collantes, solo dance-theatre with drag performance, contemporary dance, 50 minutes

Bibingka (a Filipino rice cake), Alvin Collantes’s drag persona, questions who is being entertained, and at what cost. The dance solo, a tender duet between artist and alter ego, explores the labor of Filipino migrants in Western service and entertainment. Drag becomes a means of survival, joy becomes work, and the artist is both spectacle and vessel. The piece navigates the intricate ties between queerness and Catholic influence, and the tension between Kapwa (shared identity) and Western individualism.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Concept, Choreography, Direction & Performer: Alvin William Wuthrich Collantes
Artistic Assistance: Ruben Mendo Mbese
Light Design: Haesoo Eshu Jung
Dramaturgical Support:  Nima Séne, Leander Ripchinsky
Media: Gaia Bernabe-Belvis

Generous support by Sincerely Yours “The Philippines” by Künstler*innenhaus Mousonturm,  Performance Ecologies by Goethe-Institut Philippinen, 2026 Tanztage by Sophiensæle, Eisa Jocson and Francesca Casauay

This piece is dedicated to the Filipino migrant and diasporic Berlin communities, the queers and drag queens of the Berlin nightlife and to my parents, Bong & Queenie.

Jam Session: Yang Jauh Mendekat, Yang Dekat Merapat, Gede Yogi Sukawiadnyana x Ni Komang Ayu Anantha Putri x Manik Sukadana

Distance is not just about physical space; sometimes we can feel far from those who are near, and close to those who feel far away. Many of us long for laughter, energy, and togetherness that make shared moments feel warm and meaningful.

“Yang Jauh Mendekat, Yang Dekat Merapat” is a Dance & Music Session that invites everyone to move, express themselves, and celebrate connection. Flowing music and free-form dance become a bridge, bringing together people who want to experience joy together. Every beat, every movement creates a collective experience—a living community where everyone can find their space to connect and enjoy the moment together.

Here, physical distance is no longer a barrier, and closeness emerges through music, dance, and togetherness—a place where those far away truly come closer, and those near grow even closer.