From Sacred to Profane: Barong and Rangda Dance

Saturday, August 4th, 2007 by Sidarta Wijaya

Of all the form of Balinese dance, the Barong and Rangda performance which involves trance possession were the most fascinating to early western residents and visitors. Followers of the Barong frequently practiced self-stabbing during a performance, to the great interest of scholars and curiosity seekers alike. In the early of 1930s, Walter Spies directed many visitors to the villages of Pagutan and Tegal Tamu in Gianyar Regency, where variants of Calonarang dance-drama were performed. Many special performances were commissioned by Walter Spies and his guest, and in Pagutan, especially, Calonarang performances become something of a local industry, three or more might be requested in a single week.

Calonarang performance on The Annual Bali Arts Festival 2006

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Dance, Drama & Music | Comments (0) | 1,177 views |

Tumpek Wayang: A Day for Puppet

Friday, March 23rd, 2007 by Sidarta Wijaya

Saturday, March 24, 2007, Balinese-Hindu follower will celebrate the sacred Tumpek Wayang day. The Tumpek Wayang takes its name from the name of week of its occasion. It is celebrated every 210 days, in the 27^th week of Balinese Pawukon cycle (a cycle consist of 30 weeks).