Kecak Dance is a traditional Balinese dance from Indonesia. It is dedicated as an offering to the gods of Bali through unique male choruses and powerful dancing. This article provides information based on my experience watching a Kecak Dance performance in the Ubud area of Bali in July 2023.
Characteristics of Kecak Dance
- Male-Only Chorus: The greatest feature of Kecak Dance is its male-only chorus. Approximately 150 men form a circle and produce powerful vocalizations. Their voices evoke the roars of nature or the words of the gods.
- Powerful Dancing: The dancing in Kecak is also very powerful and dynamic. Dancers move intensely as if manipulating fire, expressing reverence and prayers to the gods.
- Fire Performance: Kecak Dance is often performed against the night sky, and the addition of fire creates an even more mystical atmosphere. The spectacle woven by the dancers’ movements and the flickering flames is truly breathtaking.
- Offering to the Gods: Kecak Dance is dedicated as an offering to the gods of Bali. Through the dance, performers express gratitude to the gods and pray for the prosperity and safety of the village.
Features of Kecak Dance in the Ubud Area
The Ubud area is known as a vibrant region for Kecak Dance in Bali. Kecak Dance in Ubud has the following characteristics:
- Traditional Style: Kecak Dance in Ubud faithfully adheres to traditional Balinese styles. It gives a more rustic and powerful impression than Kecak Dance performed in other regions.
- Unity with Nature: Ubud is surrounded by beautiful nature. Kecak Dance is often performed in such natural settings, allowing for a stronger sense of unity with nature.
- Interaction with Locals: Many Kecak Dance performances in Ubud are not just for tourists but also for local residents. You can enjoy Kecak Dance while interacting with the local people.
Highlights of Kecak Dance
- Dynamic Dancing: The highlight of Kecak Dance is the powerful dancing of the men. Dancers express emotions with their entire bodies, overwhelming the audience.
- Mystical Atmosphere: Kecak Dance is often performed against the night sky, and the addition of fire creates an even more mystical atmosphere.
- Experience Balinese Culture: Kecak Dance is a traditional Balinese dance and a valuable opportunity to experience Balinese culture firsthand.
Where to Watch Kecak Dance in Ubud
There are several places in Ubud where you can watch Kecak Dance. Representative locations include:
- Puri Peliatan Temple: Located in the center of the Ubud area. Kecak Dance is performed in the evening.
- Ubud Royal Palace: The residence of the Ubud royal family. Kecak Dance is performed at night.
- Tegalalang Rice Terrace: Rice terraces located in the Ubud area. You can enjoy Kecak Dance while admiring the beautiful scenery.
Information
In July 2023, I watched a performance at a temple on Hanoman Street in the Ubud area. It seems to be held every Wednesday and Sunday there. The performance starts at 7 PM, but since it’s free seating, it’s necessary to arrive early for a good spot. The fee was 100,000 Rupiah (approximately 1,000 Yen). I bought the ticket from an old woman selling them in front of the temple gate before the performance. I suspected she might be a scalper, but after exchanging glances with a staff member, it seemed to be legitimate. Speaking of which, there were also people selling similar tickets in front of the Royal Palace venue during the day. (Prices are as of that time.)
Conclusion
Kecak Dance in the Ubud area faithfully adheres to traditional Balinese styles, allowing for a stronger sense of unity with nature. Interaction with local people is also possible. When you visit Bali, why not experience Kecak Dance in the Ubud area? I hope this blog post helps deepen your understanding of Bali’s Kecak Dance, especially in the Ubud area.
