By MOD Batch ’17
Vibrant and tightly-knit, Raffles Modern Dance is a CCA centred on modern and contemporary dance. Under the tutelage of resident choreographer Ms Low Mei Yoke, co-founder and artistic director of Frontier Danceland, dancers are nurtured into confident and creative individuals who are both team players and able performers. Practices integrate contemporary dance technique, improvisation, presentation, stage experience and Ms Low’s unique movement style, challenging dancers to explore and understand the limits of their body.
Every year, there are numerous opportunities for Modern Dance to perform, such as the biennial Singapore Youth Festival (SYF), as well as major school events such as National Day or Teachers’ Day. This year, the dancers performed alongside Indian Dance and Street Dance in a combined dance concert named ‘Augmentum’, which means the spirit of youth.
These platforms serve as excellent opportunities for members to mature as dancers, improve their stage presence and gain experience. Under the guidance of Ms Low, dancers will also have the chance to choreograph their own items for non-SYF performances, enriching their understanding of dance composition.
Over the past few years, Raffles Modern Dance has achieved the highest possible accolades in various SYF competitions. We attained Distinction for our item in 2015 titled “Undercurrent”, and are currently preparing for SYF 2017.
Modern Dance meets twice a week on Mondays (4.00pm – 6.00pm) and Wednesdays (2.30pm – 5.30pm). Nearing performances, practices may be increased to three times a week. During the holidays, practices will be held during the earlier half of the holiday period. Dancers are selected based on their ability to pick up exercises quickly and overall performance. Dance background is not a requirement, and all are welcome, including male students.
Organising outings throughout the year, such as attending dance performances or workshops together, is an essential part of being in Modern Dance. These outings allow us gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the art form on a professional level, and more importantly bond us together beyond the studio. Ultimately, our CCA allows members to enrich their passion for the art form and grow as dancers, while forging meaningful friendships with those who share a similar interest in dance.
If you love to dance, love the stage or enjoy challenging yourself physically and mentally, do sign up for our auditions. Though the Modern Dance journey may not always be smooth-sailing, we can assure you that the friends, skills and experiences gained are all worth it. We warmly welcome you to join our family!
