Epic Arts Dance in Singapore: A Journey of Connection and Creativity
Two weeks. Six dancers. Countless moments of pure magic.
Our recent journey to Singapore was a celebration of everything we believe in at Epic Arts Dance. From the moment we arrived on October 8th until our final bow on October 19th we experienced the transformative power of art that knows no boundaries.
When Dance Becomes Dialogue
Grade 2 students at UWCSEA learned about the traditional Cambodian Krama, not just as a piece of fabric, but as a Cambodian symbol of identity, community and heritage. Their tiny hands folded handmade cards that touched our dancers dearly:
"Dear Epic Arts Dancers, thank you for showing your dance, I love it! I hope you love Singapore! Your performance was amazing!"
This wasn't just children being polite. This was connection happening in real time. This was culture building bridges between hearts.
At Tanglin Trust School junior students discovered Buffalo Boy, and in the process, discovered their own creativity, confidence and resilience. Teachers watched their students light up in ways they hadn't seen before.
Breaking New Ground at Borderlands
The Borderlands Performance Project was another highlight of our Singapore experience. In just four intense, exhilarating days, professional artists from Singapore, Indonesia and Cambodia came together to create something that had never existed before. The Cambodian Krama, our cultural touchstone, inspired a collaborative performance that transcended language, nationality and ability.
Working alongside artists with and without disabilities, including two professional dancers with Down syndrome, we showcased what dance can achieve when barriers are removed rather than reinforced.
Performing at the Esplanade, with the Cambodian Ambassador in attendance, marked a significant milestone for our dancers and reinforced the global potential of inclusive dance.
The Ripple Effect of Inspiration
One educator captured it perfectly: "The dancers were such inspiring role models, showing creativity, confidence and joy shining through diversity."
Another added: "Your energy, patience and warmth in every session made a huge difference. Students found it very uplifting!"
This is what happens when art stops performing at people and starts creating with them.
Learning from Those Who Dance Differently
Our visit to ART:DIS and P71SMA's artist residency program reminded us that we're part of something bigger, a global movement of artists reimagining what inclusive practice looks like. Singaporean artists shared their approaches, their struggles, their breakthroughs. We shared ours. The conversation didn't just flow; it sparked.
At La Salle University, we dove deep with dance and performing arts students, discussing the beautiful chaos of running a dance company in Cambodia, the challenges of inclusive practice and the rewards that make every obstacle worth it.
More Than a Tour, A Transformation
As we packed our bags to return to Cambodia, we realized we weren't bringing home just memories and Instagram photos. We were bringing home expanded perspectives, deepened friendships and renewed conviction that our work matters.
The warmth of every audience, the curiosity sparked in every workshop, the tears in the eyes of parents watching their children move with new confidence- these moments don't fade. They fuel us.
This Is Only the Beginning
Singapore, you welcomed nine Cambodian dancers and gave them the world. You showed them, and us, that inclusive art isn't a niche movement or a charitable afterthought. It's the future of how we create, perform and connect.
To every student who danced with us, every teacher who opened their classroom doors, every artist who shared their practice, every audience member who stayed for the Q&A: thank you! You didn't just attend our workshops and performances. You became part of our story.
And this story? It's far from over.
As we continue growing Epic Arts Dance across Cambodia and Southeast Asia, we carry Singapore in our hearts. We carry the reminder that when we lead with connection, creativity and cultural exchange, borders disappear and possibilities multiply.
The magic of dance isn't that it transcends differences, it's that it celebrates them.
Until we meet again, Singapore. Keep dancing. Keep connecting. Keep believing that art can change the world.
Because it already has.
Epic Arts Dance is an inclusive dance company based in Cambodia, dedicated to creating opportunities for artists of all abilities. Follow our journey and support our work as we continue sharing the transformative power of dance across Southeast Asia and beyond.