GOOD news for dance enthusiasts! Beyond Contemporary Art Penang (BCAP) is set to ignite the local performing arts scene this August with its exciting new initiative known as the Singaporean Dance Experience project!
It is a cross-border dance workshop tour that will take place across Penang, Kedah, and Kuala Lumpur.
In a historic first for Penang island, this initiative will bring two of Singapore’s most celebrated choreographers, Ryan Lim and Sebastian Too, to Malaysia to lead exclusive dance choreography workshops with local talents.
The project marks a significant milestone for the Malaysian dance community, offering a rare chance to learn directly from international professionals at the forefront of the regional dance scene.
Lim and Too each bring a wealth of experience and artistic acclaim to the programme.
Ryan Lim, known for his dynamic versatility and international presence, has conducted dance workshops in Singapore, Japan, Korea, the United Kingdom, and more. His work has graced stages and screens worldwide, including acclaimed dance films and high-profile music videos.
Sebastian Too, equally esteemed, has taught in Singapore, Australia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Among his many accolades are titles such as Safra Ultimate Talent and Blackout champion (2017), solidifying his reputation as one of Singapore’s top dance talents.
This collaborative effort is proudly supported by the office of Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, who emphasised the transformative power of dance in youth development.
“Dance is more than just performance, it teaches discipline, teamwork, and expression. It strengthens both the body and the spirit.
“Dance also cultivates discipline, improves posture and temperament, and can be considered an elegant sport. Initiatives like this don’t just build skills, they also build character,” Gooi said during a press conference at Komtar today.
Also present at the press conference were BCAP chairperson Datuk Ch’ng Huck Theng, project head Ch’ng Tian Ying, Aura Dance Academy Penang studio director Ooi Shan Yin, and Ximply Dance Company Kedah studio representative Ng Jia Qin.
Gooi praised the dance workshop tour as a celebration of movement, cultural exchange, and the dedication of young dancers.
“By welcoming esteemed choreographers Ryan Lim and Sebastian Too, BCAP is giving our youth an invaluable opportunity to learn from the best.
“When young people enter an environment where they feel challenged and inspired, amazing things happen. They grow in confidence, leadership, and belonging, and that’s the true spirit of this event,” he added.
He also expressed appreciation to the participating dance studios namely Aura Dance Academy (Penang), Ximply Dance Company (Kedah), and The Hood Dance Academy (Kuala Lumpur) along with sponsors St Giles Wembley Penang and Furama Hotel Bukit Bintang, for their commitment in making the tour possible.
“This is a shining example of what we can achieve when we come together to support our youth. Let us continue investing not only in infrastructure and policy, but in creative spaces that empower our young people to shine,” said Gooi.
Meanwhile, Tian Ying stressed the broader impact of the programme.
“This project is about more than just technique. It’s about cultivating an inclusive, international, and inspiring dance ecosystem.
“At BCAP, we believe that dance should be recognised not only as an art form but as a sport, one that blends discipline, creativity, and athleticism.
“Dance resonates deeply with youth as a form of expression and physical development. Through initiatives like this, we hope to fuel their passion, sharpen their skills, and open new pathways for their future,” she shared.
Below is the workshop schedule covering Penang, Kedah and Kuala Lumpur:
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Siew Chia En