July 10, 2023

Balinese Dance: A Cultural Journey for Kids in Bandung

Balinese Dance for Kids in Bandung: A Cultural Journey

Balinese dance is a centuries-old art form that is deeply rooted in the culture of Bali, Indonesia. It is a form of dance-drama that tells stories from Hindu mythology and folklore. Balinese dance is known for its graceful movements, intricate costumes, and beautiful music.

A group of Balinese dancers in traditional costumes are performing a traditional dance. The dancers are moving gracefully and their expressions are serene.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Balinese dance among children in Bandung. This is due in part to the availability of Balinese dance classes in Bandung City, West Java. There are several dance workshops in Bandung that offer Balinese dance classes for kids.


What is Balinese Dance?

Balinese dance is a highly stylized form of dance that is characterized by its graceful movements, intricate costumes, and beautiful music. The movements of Balinese dance are based on the principles of yoga and are often accompanied by traditional Balinese music. The costumes of Balinese dance are elaborate and colourful, and they often feature masks and headdresses.



There are many different types of Balinese dance, each with its own unique style and story. Some of the most popular types of Balinese dance include:

  • Kecak

    Kecak is a trance dance that is performed by a group of men who chant and clap their hands.
  • Barong Ket

    Barong Ket is a dance-drama that tells the story of a good spirit (Barong) who battles an evil spirit (Rangda).
  • Legong

    Legong is a graceful dance that is performed by young girls.
  • Sendratari

    Sendratari is a modern form of Balinese dance-drama that tells stories from Hindu mythology.

The costumes and music used in Balinese dance are an essential part of the art form and help to create a magical and immersive experience for the audience. The costumes are elaborate and colourful, and they often feature masks and headdresses. The music is traditional Balinese music, which is played on a variety of instruments, including gamelan, gongs, and drums.

The costumes of Balinese dance are a reflection of the rich culture of Bali. They are made from natural materials, such as silk, cotton, and leather. The colours of the costumes are often symbolic, and they can represent different characters or emotions. The masks and headdresses that are worn in Balinese dance are also symbolic, and they can represent different deities or spirits.

The music of Balinese dance is an integral part of the art form. It sets the mood and atmosphere for the dance, and it helps to tell the story that is being told. The traditional Balinese music that is used in dance is played on a variety of instruments, including gamelan, gongs, and drums. The music of Balinese dance is often accompanied by singing. The singers sing in a high-pitched, nasal voice that is called "suling." Suling is a traditional Balinese singing style that is characterized by its gentle, lyrical quality.

A close-up of a Balinese dancer's face. The dancer is wearing a traditional costume and her face is painted with intricate designs. The dancer's expression is serene and her eyes are closed.

If you have the opportunity to see a Balinese dance performance, be sure to pay attention to the costumes and music. They are an important part of what makes Balinese dance so special.


The benefits of learning Balinese dance for kids

There are many benefits to learning Balinese dance for kids. These benefits include:

  • Physical benefits

    Balinese dance is a great way for kids to stay active and healthy. The graceful movements of Balinese dance help to improve flexibility, balance, and coordination.
  • Mental benefits

    Balinese dance can help to improve kids' concentration, focus, and memory. The complex movements and intricate costumes of Balinese dance require kids to focus and remember the steps.
  • Emotional benefits

    Balinese dance can help to improve kids' self-confidence, self-esteem, and creativity. The expressive movements of Balinese dance allow kids to express themselves in a safe and supportive environment.
  • Cultural benefits

    Balinese dance is a great way for kids to learn about Balinese culture and history. The stories that are told through Balinese dance provide kids with a glimpse into the rich culture of Bali.

Where to learn Balinese dance in Bandung

There are several dance schools and workshops in Bandung City that offer Balinese dance classes for kids. One of them is “Keluarga Kesenian Bali Gita Saraswati”, which takes place at the Bali Student Dormitory "Viyata Tirthagangga", Jl. Dr. Otten No.15, Pasirkaliki, Cicendo, Bandung City, West Java 40171, Phone: (022) 4209958. Keluarga Kesenian Bali Gita Saraswati is a dance school that has been teaching Balinese dance in Bandung for over 20 years.

The Bali Student Dormitory Viyata Tirthagangga, where dance activities take place, is a comfortable, cool and well-maintained place. In addition, it is also in a strategic location close to the city center, accessible from various locations and there is a large enough yard for vehicle parking.

Here are some important landmarks around the location such as: Dr. Hasan Sadikin Central General Hospital Emergency Department, Istana Plaza Shopping Mall, Pasupati Bridge, Bandung Metrology Directorate, West Java Provincial Education Office, Kawani Sarana Petualang, and SMA KRISTEN PAULUS. These landmarks can give you directions when you decide to visit the Keluarga Kesenian Bali Githa Saraswati.

A map of Bandung with the location of a Balinese dance school or performance venue marked. The map shows the city center and the surrounding areas

Francisca Dhiana recommends Githa Saraswati in Bandung, take place in a well-maintained hostel (Bali Student Dormitory "Viyata Tirthagangga) that has been teaching Balinese dance for over 50 years. The practice is on Sundays at 11am, and Dhiana encourages people to join in and learn about this authentic Indonesian culture.

Here the real review on Google Reviews from Francisca Dhiana
"(Translated by Google) well-maintained hostel... a place to learn Balinese dance which has been more than 50 years if I'm not mistaken okay?... the name of the studio is Githa Saraswati... the practice starts at 11 a.m. on Sundays.. let's join in dancing while preserving authentic Indonesian culture"
"(Original) asrama yg terawat baik… tempat belajar menari Bali yg sudah 50th lebih kalau ga salah ya😁 … nama sanggar Githa Saraswati… latihan nya di hr minggu mulai jam 11.. yuks ikut nari sambil melestarikan budaya asli indonesia"


How to get started with Balinese dance

If you are interested in getting your child started with Balinese dance, there are a few things you can do. First, you can research different dance schools and workshops in Bandung to find one that is a good fit for your child. Once you have found a school or workshop, you can contact them to schedule a trial class.

During the trial class, your child will have the opportunity to learn some basic Balinese dance steps and movements. They will also have the chance to meet the instructor and other students. If your child enjoys the trial class, you can then sign them up for regular classes.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some FAQs about Balinese dance include:

What is Balinese dance?

Balinese dance is a traditional dance from the island of Bali in Indonesia. It is a complex and sophisticated art form that combines music, dance, and theater. Balinese dance is often performed as a part of religious ceremonies, but it is also performed for tourists and other visitors.

What are the different types of Balinese dance?

There are many different types of Balinese dance, but some of the most popular include:

  • Legong: A graceful and elegant dance that is often performed by young girls.
  • Kecak: A dramatic and energetic dance that is performed by a group of men.
  • Barong: A dance that tells the story of a battle between good and evil.
  • Topeng: A dance that features masked performers.

What are the benefits of learning Balinese dance?

There are many benefits to learning Balinese dance, including: (1) learning about Indonesian culture and history, (2) developing discipline and coordination, (3) expressing oneself creatively, and (4) having fun and making new friends.

Where can I learn Balinese dance in Bandung?

There are many dance schools and studios in Bandung that offer Balinese dance classes. One of them is Keluarga Kesenian Githa Saraswati, which takes place at the Bali Student Dormitory "Viyata Tirthagangga", Jl. Dr. Otten No.15, Pasirkaliki, Cicendo, Bandung City, West Java 40171, Phone: (022) 4209958.

What should I wear to a Balinese dance performance?

Traditional Balinese dress is appropriate for a Balinese dance performance. However, you can also wear comfortable and modest clothing.

What should I expect at a Balinese dance performance?

A Balinese dance performance is a unique and immersive experience. You will see beautiful costumes, intricate movements, and traditional music. You may also learn about Indonesian culture and history.


Conclusion

Balinese dance is a beautiful and enriching art form that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. If you are looking for a way to introduce your child to Balinese culture, learning Balinese dance is a great option. There are several dance schools and workshops in Bandung that offer Balinese dance classes for kids, so you are sure to find one that is a good fit for your child.


Call to action

If you are interested in learning more about Balinese dance or finding a class in Bandung, you can use the search bar on Google or another search engine to find Balinese dance classes in Bandung. Once you have found a few dance schools or workshops that you are interested in, contact them to schedule a trial class.

I hope this article has inspired you to learn more about Balinese dance and to consider enrolling your child in a class. It is a great way for kids to stay active, learn about a new culture, and express themselves creatively.



Reference

  1. google.co.id
  2. wikipedia.org _ Balinese Dance _ on July 9, 2023
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_dance
  3. Image and Video : Original Collection

Searches on this site related to Balinese Dance in Bandung:

1. Bali Dance Bandung (Gita Saraswati)
2. Early Childhood Learning Panji Semirang Dance


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