How to Take a Balinese Dance Lesson: Move to Bali’s Ancient Rhythm
By Jayantha
The air in Bali carries music. Sometimes it’s the soft hiss of rice paddies, sometimes the steady thrum of distant gamelan. But if you listen closely, you’ll hear another beat—one that pulses through temple courtyards, nighttime festivals, and the sunlit rooms of local dance studios. It’s the heartbeat of Balinese dance, an ancient art that tells stories through every flick of a finger and dart of an eye.
If you’re the kind of traveler who likes to do more than just see—if you want to become a part of Bali’s living culture—then read on. I’ll take you step by step through how to join a Balinese dance lesson, and maybe even find your own rhythm on this island of gods.
1. Find Your Studio: Where to Learn Balinese Dance
Bali isn’t shy about her traditions. In Ubud—the spiritual and artistic soul of the island—dance schools are as common as smoothie bowls. My favorite? Sanggar Tari Sudi Dharma, a tucked-away studio run by a family of dancers who’ve passed down their skills for generations. But you’ll find lessons everywhere from Denpasar to Canggu, each with its own flavor.
Tips:
– Ask your homestay host for recommendations; locals always know which studios are welcoming to beginners.
– Look for “open class” or “workshop” signs chalked onto blackboards outside studios.
– Many hotels and guesthouses can arrange private lessons, sometimes with a temple performance as your graduation ceremony.
2. Dress the Part: Sarongs, Sashes, and Spirit
Balinese dance is a full-body experience, and the right outfit is part of the magic. You’ll usually be wrapped in a vibrant sarong and a sash tied tightly at your waist—which, by the way, really helps you feel those hip movements! Most studios have spare costumes for visitors, but if you want to look like a local, pick up your own at a market (think: Pasar Ubud or Sukawati Art Market).
Pro tip:
Ladies, pin your hair up. Gents, wear a simple shirt. Bare feet are the norm—you’ll want to feel the cool tiles under your toes.
3. Step Inside: The Dance Lesson Experience
Picture this: The sun slants through carved wood windows, painting golden shapes on the floor. The teacher—often a smiling ibu (mother) or bapak (father)—hits play on a weathered speaker, and the first notes of gamelan chime out. Suddenly, you’re not just a visitor; you’re in the story.
What to Expect:
– Warm-up: Stretch those wrists and ankles! Balinese dance is all about controlled, expressive movements.
– Hand & Eye Movements: You’ll learn to curl your fingers just so, and shift your gaze from side to side—mimicking the intense, dramatic eye work that’s iconic in Balinese performance.
– Basic Steps: Dancers teach you to shift your weight, glide your feet, and find your “center.” Don’t worry if you wobble—every beginner does!
– Facial Expressions: Here’s where it gets playful. Balinese dance is as much about your face as your feet. I remember my teacher, Pak Made, grinning as he told me: “Your eyes dance too!”
4. The Stories You Tell: More Than Just Movement
Each dance tells a legend—of gods and demons, love and longing, victory and loss. As you practice, your teacher will weave in snippets of these stories. My first lesson was in the “Legong,” a dance of youthful grace and playful rivalry. Even as I fumbled through the steps, I could feel the centuries-old narrative alive in every gesture.
Why it matters:
Learning the story transforms your dance from a simple exercise into a living connection with Balinese culture. You’re not just copying moves—you’re embodying myth.
5. Capture the Moment: Photos, Videos, and Memories
After an hour, you’ll be sweating, laughing, and—if you’re like me—amazed at how expressive your hands have become. Most teachers are happy to snap a photo or film a short video of you performing your newfound skills. These moments make for some of the most authentic travel memories (and killer Instagram posts).
6. Beyond the Lesson: See the Masters Perform
Once you’ve tried the moves yourself, catch a professional performance at a temple or community hall. Watch the dancers’ precision, their costumes sparkling under torchlight, and you’ll appreciate their artistry on a whole new level. Trust me—after you’ve tried it, every movement will speak volumes.
Jayantha’s Insider Tips
- Be Curious: Ask your teacher about the meaning behind each gesture. Balinese people love to share their culture with those who show genuine interest.
- Go With Friends: It’s way more fun to laugh at your wobbly wrists together.
- Respect the Space: Studios are often family compounds or temple grounds. Dress modestly and move mindfully.
- Try Different Styles: From the dramatic “Baris” (warrior dance) to the flirtatious “Joged,” each dance has its own vibe.
Final Thoughts: Moving to Bali’s Beat
Taking a Balinese dance lesson isn’t just about learning steps—it’s about stepping into a story, feeling the island’s spirit move through you, and connecting with a tradition that’s as vibrant today as it was centuries ago.
So tie on that sarong, let your eyes do the talking, and move to Bali’s ancient rhythm. Trust me, the music will stay with you long after your feet leave the island.
Ready to dance your way through Bali? Drop a comment if you’ve tried it—or if you’re brave enough to give it a go! Selamat menari—happy dancing!
Comments (0)
There are no comments here yet, you can be the first!