About
Departure is a music and dance performance by movement artist Masumi Saito and composer/musician An-Ting that explores themes of death, ritual, and the spirit.
Through the intertwining of movement and live music, the performance creates an emotionally resonant experience - breaking the silence around death. Why do cultures across the world uphold long-standing funeral traditions? What can these rituals teach us about both death and life?
In Departure, Masumi Saito and An-Ting reimagine a funeral ceremony inspired by their East Asian heritages as a performance and invite the audience to join in a contemplative space. The performance is followed by a post-show discussion on death and ritual. Inspired by the ethos of Death Cafe, this conversation offers space for audiences and artists to share experiences, stories, and perspectives, exploring how traditions and collective rituals can shape the way we grieve.
Departure by Masumi Saito and An-Ting
Costume Designed by Sophie Wang
Lighting Designed by Nao Nagai
Production Supported by Ruth Holdsworth
Video Credit: Sol Denker
Photo Credit: Guy Wigmore
Supported by Arts Council England, Britten Pears Arts, Nouveau Riche, Lewisham Council and Broadway Theatre
Artists
Masumi Saito
Masumi Saito is a movement artist, mother, and choreographer. She creates film works and live performances influenced by nature, spirits, and the Japanese way of being. She has presented her work at renowned venues worldwide, including HOME Manchester, ICA, Jerwood Space, and Kanazawa 21st Century Museum. The Nakanojo Biennale in Japan has commissioned her five times. At the heart of her creative exploration lies a profound inquiry into the relationship between self and surroundings. She delves into the depths of inner being with grace and authenticity, inviting audiences on a journey of introspection and self-discovery.
An-Ting
An-Ting 安婷 is a versatile composer and multidisciplinary artist whose work ranges from electronic music to immersive performance, exploring the relationships between humanity, nature and the spiritual realm. She led and co-created productions including Lost Communications (Norfolk & Norwich Festival, Immersive Arts, Brazil's FILE Festival) and HOME X (nominated for UK Theatre Awards, presented/co-commissioned by Barbican, Theatre Royal York, and Cambridge Junction). Between 2018 and 2023, she served as artistic director of the National Portfolio Organisation Kakilang, placing emphasis on generating new narratives by East and Southeast Asian artists and encouraging cross-artform collaborations.
Tour
4 Nov, 2025 Warwick Arts Centre (Coventry)
9 Nov, 2025 Norwich Arts Centre (Norwich)
15 Nov, 2025 The Cut (Halesworth)
18-22 Nov, 2025 Bristol Old Vic (Bristol)
3 Dec, 2025 Colchester Arts Centre (Colchester)
8 & 9 May, 2026 Theatre Royal York (York)
