On October 19th, Republic Polytechnic’s TRCC (The Republic Cultural Center) became a vibrant stage of artistic exploration, highlighting humanity’s connection to the environment through the theme of the five elements—earth, water, fire, wind, and space. This year’s theme, “Bhumi,” underscored the urgency of environmental sustainability and the responsibility we share in protecting our planet.
Opening with “As the Wind Blows”
The event began with As the Wind Blows, performed by RP’s Latin Dancesport and Capoeira Interest Groups(IGs). With fluid, airy choreography, the dancers conveyed a sense of freedom, likening their movements to a gentle breeze. Shifting between soft and forceful gestures, they illustrated the resilience needed to adapt in the face of environmental challenges, blending harmony with unexpected disruption.
Exploring Boundaries in “46cm”
RP Modern Dance presented 46cm, a piece that explored the concept of personal space and its boundaries. As the choreography evolved, dancers transitioned from wide, communal movements to more enclosed, intimate gestures, symbolising the progression from public space to the intimate confines of personal space. The creative use of chairs as props added visual depth, capturing the audience’s attention.
Chairs take centre stage in the captivating performance of Modern Dance’s “46cm,” adding depth and creativity to the storytelling. (PHOTO: Tiffany (@tehetiffany)/Photo Republic IG)
Celebrating Water in “Ombak”
Ombak, performed by RP Selatra, paid homage to water’s dynamic strength. With choreography set to a soundtrack inspired by Wakanda Forever, the dancers used flowing movements and evocative lighting to express water’s fluidity and power, leaving the audience in awe of its graceful yet forceful presence.
Breaking Free in “Ascendance”
RP Style Groovaz Crew’s Ascendance tackled the theme of self-discovery within a structured society. With high-energy moves and bold choreography, the dancers showcased the tension between conformity and the yearning for individual freedom, drawing cheers from the audience as they ended the first half of the show on a powerful note.
RP Style Groovaz Crew delivers an electrifying performance that ignites the stage!
(PHOTO:Austin (@fishxutopia_)/Photo Republic IG)
Earth’s Resilience in “BEEEEEEEEEEEEEP”
After intermission, the stage transformed with a large beige cloth resembling shifting sands, setting the tone for an earth-themed piece by RP Dharma Endari. Traditional bamboo props added depth, while the powerful ending, with performers falling to the floor in succession, left the audience in reflective silence.
Fusion of Wushu and Dance in “Overwhelmed”
RP Wushu’s Overwhelmed merged traditional wushu with dance elements, incorporating swords and stunts that captivated the audience. Moving from intense action to calm reflection, the dancers concluded with a powerful, serene image, embodying the balance between struggle and peace.
Solidarity in “Echoes of Hope”
Echoes of Hope, performed by ITE College West’s Korean Dance Wave, began introspectively, building to a powerful climax. The dancers, in simple costumes and without props, conveyed unity and hope, culminating in an awe-inspiring final stunt. Their performance highlighted resilience in the face of challenges.
A Unified Finale
The finale, Metronome, brought together all the groups, joined by NUS Dance Ensemble and a violinist from String Ensemble. This collective performance, blending diverse styles and costumes, symbolised a conversation among voices in harmony, closing the show on a powerful note.
Throughout MUSE XIII, the performers displayed not only technical excellence but a profound commitment to raising environmental awareness through art. The production balanced entertainment with a message,inspiring the audience to reflect on our relationship with nature.
