…And They Danced

I attended the much-hyped traditional Balinese dance the other night. I had been pawing at the idea for a few days but never really made the commitment to go.

Well tonight was the night, I was ready to see some art. I had been given the brochure many times on my passing of the outdoor theatre. Not really looking it over much, I had decided to see whatever performance was playing that night. They would all be new and fresh to me.

I packed up my camera gear and headed to a restaurant. I was hungry. While eating, I mentioned to my server Wayan that I intended to see a Balinese Show tonight. He informed me they have many outdoor theatres throughout Ubud and suggested that I attended the one across the street at the Lotus Pond. I agreed after hearing a little about what the show entailed and Wayan ran and got my ticket while I was waiting for my food.

I was really getting excited now because I could see the theatre from the rooftop restaurant and it had a small and intimate look to it. It was just what I was looking for. Every seat would be a great seat.

Wayan returned with my ticket and began to talk to me about my stay in Bali. He explained that tourism had really taken a hit after the Bali bombings and the 2004 tsunami. He expressed his distaste for radical fundamentalists and how their skewed views on life were hurting the rest of the world. I agreed and we both acknowledged that there was no right or wrong religion.

We also agreed that we would all ultimately get to the same place even though our beliefs of how we get there may be different. We left it at that because neither one of us is fanatical about the way a person should think or act nor do I particularly like getting into discussions about religion. I usually steer clear of the subject because everyone has the right to his or her own beliefs as long as its not physically hurting someone.

After my meal, I still had 45 minutes until I had to be at the theatre. Wayan knew this so, since the restaurant wasn’t busy, came over to talk some more about life. After talking for a while, I asked Wayan if he would give me a guided tour around Bali. This is quite common for the men in Bali, it’s how they make their second or third income on the off days from their regular jobs.

Wayan said that he couldn’t go tomorrow but the next day would be perfect. He explained that he didn’t drive a car but his friend would drive us while he guided me through the sites of Bali. We negotiated a fair price, $35 dollars for 8 hours, and agreed to meet the day after tomorrow at 9:00 am. We shook hands and I was on my way to the theatre.

I got there just as the quaint little theatre was filling up. There were three rows of eight chairs on each side. About three-quarters of the seats filled. I decided to stand in the back with a Japanese fellow and photograph the performance from there.

It was an interesting performance filled with music, dancing and many different costumes. I took many photographs of the performance.

The literature describes the show, Kebyar Terompong, as “A classic example of the “Kebyar” style of dance and music, “Kebyar” refers to an explosion of flash, and “Terompong” is the name of the instrument featured in this piece. A key showpiece for dancers, “Kebyar Terompong” requires a high level of technical achievement on the part of the dancer. The performer is challenged to dance dynamic expression, the signature of the Kebyar style… while playing a long row of pot gongs on the Terompong! The playing of the Terompong is embellished lavishly with dance, and the range of expression throughout is exceptional, flashing from strength to refined delicacy, courage to coy flirtation. “Kebyar Terompong” was created in the 1930’s by Mario.”

I had another great Bali experience to remember. They just seem to keep adding up.

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Dancing is an important cultural and regional art, but learning to dance can be intimidating to beginners. A dance class taught by a professional is a great way to get started. Don't be afraid to take a dance lesson just because you've never danced before!