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Fresh from performing the title character in 12 Inch Theatre's "Carmen" last month, dancer and choreographer Meuanphun "Orn" Ampunsang has invited some "Carmen" pals to join students from her Point Studio, which is celebrating its fifth anniversary, for her new production titled "Phun" ("Dream").

"The English title is written 'Fun+' and it's pronounced 'Fun Plus'," she says.

"It's a good opportunity for the students, who've been rehearsing for the past three months, to work with professionals and to perform for the public. We've quite a big cast too - 28 members."

"It's been my dream to stage a full-scale dance performance. The story is about a child from upcountry who wishes to become a professional dancer in Bangkok."

"The first act is called 'Urban Dwellers', and we'll show a wide variety of city people. Some strive for a better future while others yearn for new experiences. They face different obstacles and hardships, which give them strength to carry on."

"In the second act, 'Those Who Are Forgotten,' the tone is darker, as we show characters most of us do not care about — beggars, for example."

"The final act, 'Forever Dreams Come True', shows different aspects of love, including homosexuality, and questions whether we want to love, to be loved and to feel love."

"In each act, there are various styles of dance, ranging from classical ballet, to jazz, contemporary and hip-hop — all new choreography by myself plus a scene called 'Garbage' by guest choreographer Peeramon Chomdhavat, who's also an artistic adviser for this performance. Given this variety, it's my job to make sure that everyone and everything is unified choreographically and emotionally."

Swiss in the mix

The music is composed by Swiss jazz pianist Francois Lindemanne, who was part of the "Piano Seven" seen here during Bangkok's Festival of Dance and Music a few years ago. Orn says that he'll also perform some of his compositions live.

"We'll evaluate the feedback and if it's good then we may decide to stage this kind of charity performance annually."

Profits from ticket sales will be donated to Sutasinee Noi-in Foundation (Baan-Home-Hug).

"It's a small charity that's making a big impact in helping HIV-infected children," says Orn.

 ONE NIGHT ONLY

>> "Fun+" takes place at 7.30 on Saturday in Khunying Sumanee Memorial Hall at Shrewsbury International School, 1922 Charoen Krung Road.

 >> Tickets are Bt300 and Bt500. Call (02) 734 3232.