Indonesian Traditional Dances that are already Worldwide

 

1.Traditional Saman Dance

Some time ago Saman Dance became viral on social media, because it was in the Coldplay band video clip.  We are clearly proud, because regional dances in Indonesia are known abroad. Like the Saman dance from Aceh, and the Mask dance from West Java in the video clip scene on the song Amazing Day from a British band Coldplay. Awesome right!.

Saman Dance is a Gayo Tribal dance that is usually performed to celebrate important events in traditional ceremonies. The poetry in the saman dance uses the Gayo language. In addition, Saman dance is also often performed to celebrate the birthday of the Prophet Muhammad. This dance has a very deep meaning because the dance reflects education, religion, manners, heroism, cohesiveness and togetherness. Look at the Saman dance, if there is no compactness it will be difficult to see its beauty.

 

 

2. Reog Ponorogo Traditional Dance

This dance was also a debate because some countries had wanted to claim that this dance originated from other countries.  In fact, all Indonesian people know that Reog Dance is an Indonesian cultural heritage, originating from Ponorogo.

Reog is one of the cultural arts originating from East Java, precisely the City of Ponorogo.  In events and public holidays, such as marriage, circumcision and national events, this dance is usually performed. Reog Ponorogo dance consists of several series of 2 to 3 opening dances. The first dance is usually performed by 6 to 8 brave men in all-black clothes, with faces polished in red. These dancers describe the brave figure of a lion.

 

3. Kecak Traditional Dance
Who does not know Bali?  Every time you go to Bali, you will often see the Kecak dance.  Because this dance originated from the Island of the Gods.  Typically, this dance is often performed by many male dancers who sit in rows and cross-legged in a circle and with a certain rhythm calling 'cak' while raising both arms.

This dance usually accompanies the Ramayana story which becomes the main story. If you are in Uluwatu, usually in the late afternoon, the Kecak dance performance begins.

 

4. Barong Traditional Dance
In addition to the Kecak dance, one of the dances that is also famous from the Island of the Gods is the Barong Dance. This dance has a philosophy of life which is doing good. Usually, the dancers wear four-legged animal costumes, while the evil form is played by Rangda, a creepy figure with two pointed fangs in his mouth.

You can watch the Barong Dance Performance in the Batubulan area of Gianyar. Barong Balinese dance performances will usually start at 09:30 in the morning every day.

 

Java Private Tour is very committed to lifting Traditional Culture in the eyes of the international community by opening opportunities for international tourists to explore the nature, art, and social life of Indonesia through experiences with the local people.

 

Written by : Edu – Java Private Tour

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