Japanese viral sensation, Avantgardey to make Borneo debut

BT
Dec 26, 2025
2 min read

KUCHING. 26 December 2025: Global dance phenomenon from Japan, Avantgardey will be headlining the next edition of The Band Lab’s live orchestral concert, the ACG Concert, which is set to take place at the Sarawak Indoor Stadium on January 31, 2026. This is the first time the world-renowned 20-member all-female dance team will be performing in Borneo.

Following their meteoric rise as finalists on America’s Got Talent and being named one of Vogue Japan’s "Persons of the Year, " Avantgardey has become a global household name. Known for their uncanny synchronisation, retro-styled school uniforms, and signature bobbed hair, the 17-member group will bring their viral choreography to the Sarawakian stage in a high-stakes collaboration with a live orchestra.

"Securing Avantgardey is a testament to Kuching's growing influence as a cultural destination, " said President of The Band Lab, Jesmond Siew. "Their precision and eccentricity perfectly mirror the high-octane energy of the ACG culture. We aren't just putting on a show; we are facilitating a world-class cultural exchange that brings the very best of Japanese contemporary art directly to the heart of Sarawak.”

Following the immense success of “An Anime Symphony” (2023) and “An ACG Symphony” (2024), the 2026 edition is set to be Borneo’s largest full-orchestra Animation, Comic and Games (ACG) live stadium concert, featuring a powerful 60-piece orchestra, professional vocalists, dancers and a full 50-piece choir by Dolce Chanticleer.

Fans will be experiencing a 2-hour immersive journey through the soundtracks of global anime phenomena. The repertoire includes the high-octane energy of Naruto and Haikyuu, the emotional depth of Demon Slayer, and the enchanting, nostalgic melodies of My Neighbour Totoro, Spirited Away, Howl’s Moving Castle, Suzume, and more.

To complement the musical score, the production will be elevated by state-of-the-art pyrotechnics and cinematic lighting design. In a nod to the vibrant community that fuels this genre, the organizers have issued a call to the public to participate in the spectacle. "We want to see the stadium filled with the creativity of the fans, " the organising committee stated. "Cosplay is more than just a costume; it is the soul of this subculture. When the audience cosplays, they aren't just spectators—they become a living part of the ‘Beyond Epic’ atmosphere we are creating."

Early Bird tickets are available now through 31 December 2025, offering fans the opportunity to secure seats at the most favourable rates. Fans are encouraged to secure their tickets promptly at the best available rate to experience this historic fusion of Japanese pop culture and orchestral mastery.