The Making, Identity and Patronage of Dance in Malaysia

Abstract

Ramli Ibrahim, a leading dancer and choreographer of his generation in Malaysia, has drawn enthusiastic reviews wherever he performs, be it London, New York, Madras, Singapore or Australia. His mastery of Ballet, Modern dance and Indian Classical Dance - three very diverse dance forms - makes him a rare dancer. He was once a member of the prestigious Sydney Dance Company, with which he parted in 1982 when he relocated to India to further his study of Indian Classical dance. In the past 15 years, Ramli has established himself as a leading choreographer in Malaysia. Through Sutra Dance Company, the group he founded in 1983, he has made important contributions to the development of contemporary Malaysian dance. Ramli has also worked with many Malaysian artists in various collaborations (with theatre, visual arts, literary arts, traditional and contemporary musicians)