KESUMA & UMa Dance Showcase 2026

The Dance Department of the University of Malaya (UM), under the Faculty of Creative Arts, is home to two distinguished performance ensembles—KESUMA (Kumpulan Kesenian Universiti Malaya) and UMa Dance. These ensembles provide vital platforms for students to apply their training, creativity, and performance skills across both traditional and contemporary dance practices. 

The KESUMA & UMa Dance Showcase is the department’s annual performance event, featuring two unique nights with different dance programmes by both ensembles. This year’s KESUMA segment presents a vibrant collection of traditional works that foreground revival, diversity, and cultural continuity. The KESUMA performances begin by honouring tradition through a special collaboration with MAWARKU, featuring their well-loved repertoires such as Kuda Kepang and Kerincing Masri. The KESUMA also includes Malay classical dance such as Asyik, along with folk favourites Inang Lama and Inang Masri. Together, these works illuminate the grace, charm, and historical depth of Malay dance heritage. This year also brings the exciting return of our Chinese dance, Indian dance, and Ajat Menua Pakan, adding fresh energy to the KESUMA stage.

The UMa performances features eleven choreographic works performed by undergraduate, postgraduate students and distinguished alumni. This year’s pieces incorporate strong traditional influences, offering a fresh approach to creative practice. Other highlights include the restaging of Nanchang Leka Timang, an award-winning Iban contemporary dance piece from Citra Tari Nusantara 2025, paired with a spirited Jazz performance by Jazz Technique’s Class students that offers lively contrast into the evening.