In 1993 aged 18, Jecko Siompo made an unusual choice by Papuan standards – he moved to Jakarta with the intention to study music at the Jakarta Arts Institute. Siompo, unable to read music was not eligible to enrol in the music department. Soon after, he decided that the use of his body was enough and dance was for him instead.
The Fakfak born Siompo learnt various dance styles – of both traditional and the so-called modern and contemporary forms. By the end of his second year at the institute, he was earning his way as a backup dancer and supporting actor on TV shows. Soon after he was being recruited for his senior’s performances, many were already big names at that time including Sardono W. Kusumo, Boi Sakti and Dedy Luthan.
