Main Zapin 2017

This performance of Zapin from across Malaysia rarely performed in Kuala Lumpur is the 4th time for the Faculty of Dance, ASWARA. In Arabic (Al-Zafin) zapin means a foot step. It is believed that all zapin dances are derived and inspired by the Arab community in Yemen who then travelled to Malaysia more than 500 years ago especially the Muslim missionaries. Zapin dances have become widespread throughout the region including Indonesia, Brunei and Singapore where it is known by various names such as jepin, jipin, zafan and so on. The dances generally have a structure that includes the taksim (introduction) where the dancers enter the performance area with great respect to each other and the guests accompanied by the haunting which vary in each zapin from as few as 3 to as many as 12 that are danced to the interlocking rhythms of the hand-held, goat-skinned drums, and the finale or wainab that signifies the end of the dance. Often the expression used is to ‘play the zapin’or to ‘play with zapin’indicating elements of fun, competition and improvisation. Siam (Sabah), Zapin Sebat (Sarawak), Zapin opening (new creation) and Zapin finale (new creation). . Today, the Zapin genre has greatly evolved in terms of footwork and style of presentation. Zapin dances continue to be performed at community gatherings and during various festivals. Encouraging young dancers who have learned this dance in their hometowns with traditional dance masters, ASWARA encourages the new generation to take ownership of these cultural forms. Interestingly, most of the dance choreographies and arrangements have retained their old-world charm. The performance is a celebration of Zapin as a part of Malaysian Identitiy. ASWARA acknowledge the incredible work that has been done by the National Department for Culture and Arts, Johore Heritage Foundation and Prof. Dr. Mohd Anis Md Nor in as complimentary to existing and on-going initiatives. This Main Zapin 2017 performance featuring 14 zapin such as Zapin Mahpom (Johor), Zapin Parit Mastar (Johor), Zapin Padang Sari (Johor), Zapin Kores (Johor), Zapin Melayu Johor (Johor), Zapin Terengganu (Terengganu), Zapin Lenga (Melaka), Zapin Raub (Pahang), Zapin Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), Zapin Tidung (Sabah), Zapin Suara