Sang: A Journey to Return Home

Sang: A Journey to Return Home manifests Papermoon Puppet Theatre’s abiding interests in the bonds humans have with each other and nature. Inspired by communities that make the river their homes, the work celebrates the life-giving energy of human relationships and nature. Inhabiting the Esplanade Concourse, the installation comprises larger-than-life puppets, stilt houses and miniature puppets created from materials including papier-mache, wood and rattan. The work traces Sang’s encounter with the giant guardian Kali, who takes the form of an enormous puppet. Kali, whose name originates from the word “river” in Javanese, keeps watch over this cluster of homes and its inhabitants. Sang’s journey of discovering who Kali is and remembering what he once was serves as an allegory for the desire to protect and preserve the bonds that truly matter.

This installation continues telling the tale of remembrance and reconnection central to the production Stream of Memory by Papermoon Puppet Theatre. It reflects on the impact of urbanisation and modern life on natural environments while urging for the rekindling of relationships with others and nature. Stream of Memory was commissioned as part of In New Light – A Season of Commissions, in celebration of Esplanade’s 20th anniversary.