presents
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| Tari Aceh |
7pm -- pre-performance lecture
8pm -- performance
11am-1pm -- workshop with dancers of Tari Aceh,
exploring traditions and hallmarks of Acehnese dance
Aceh (Sumatra, Indonesia) is renowned for its exuberant performances combining text, poetry, dance, and movement with a distinct flavor that reflects local culture as well as a strong Islamic influence. It has been ten years since the devastating tsunami killed over 200,000 people in Aceh. This performance celebrates the resilience of the people and a new generation of young women whose traditions have provided an important part of the healing process.
One of the hallmarks of Acehnese dance is a form of body percussion in which various rhythms are created by slapping the body or clapping. One form — saman — is done in a tight line, shoulder-to-shoulder, becoming almost a singular-being moving at split-second speed. The form is not only entertaining, but also has an educational side which reflects the morals and teachings of the community.
This is a rare opportunity to see an all-female group from Syiah Kuala University, located in Banda Aceh, the capital of the Aceh province on the western Indonesian island of Sumatra.
This program is part of Asia Society's ongoing initiative Creative Voices of Muslim Asia.
Can't make it to this program? Tune in to AsiaSociety.org/Live at 7pm EST for a free live video webcast.
