Balinese Life
Bali, Dancing With the World

If Balinese could count the number of dances they have on their fingers their fingers would not be enough. This would not have happened two or three decades ago. But, after the establishment of a formal institution like vocational schools and higher education facilities like SMKI and ISI, this condition has improved. Based on their classical elements and roots of tradition, their creativity and inspiration flows increasingly under the guidance of their Taksu, or divine inspiration. They do not only discover, but also preserve and develop this valued cultural heritage in the form of dances.

Observing these facts in Balinese life, there are two interesting phenomena. Firstly, the art of dance, or performing art is not only an expression of art itself (entertainment) but also a medium to express their devotional service to God (sacred dance). The latter then bear several sacred dances that performed in relation to religious ceremony. So, this kind of dance will exists as long as the supporting community lasts.
Another is are two generations, younger and older that have participated in maintaining these dances in order to remain sustainable. The youngsters, of school age will perform the Rejang dance in the procession at temple festivals. They may have been taught at school as an extracurricular subject, or through private courses at dance studios. Meanwhile, the older ones present Pendet dances on welcoming the arrival of melasti (purificatory) processions and the like. This fact indicates that regeneration has been well prepared.
During the historical passage of Bali, foreign influence also played an important role in developing Balinese dances. The painter Walter Spies and author Katharane Mershon in cooperation with Limbak along with his troupe from Bedulu village have given valued contributions to the composition of the Kecak Dance. Nowadays, visitors can enjoy this dance either at their hotel or village stage regularly. Cooperation or collaboration among Balinese artists with their foreign colleagues works well.
Many foreign students are eager to learn Balinese dances in Bali. They stay with Balinese families and interact directly with local culture and tradition. For visitors whose period of stay is too short on this beautiful island can join cultural activities that offers short courses. Visitors can also be taken in a photograph in Balinese dance costume as a souvenir. This last service is widely available at photo studios in downtown Denpasar or at other tourist resorts.
Balinese dances have proved to give many contributions in international cultural exchange, tourism promotion and a tightening up of relationships among the nations. These days, it is not difficult to find a dance studio that teaches Balinese dances outside Bali. Sekar Jaya troupe for example was established in the United States and, hopefully, will be followed by other troupes around the world. If Western countries offer franchises on their language courses, or commercial products to the world, Bali may start franchising its dance courses. (BTN/Punia)