Dance of the Week: Baris (Warrior Dance)

Baris is a series of warrior dances in Bali, Indonesia. The dances show the stages of a man going to battle. These stages are preparing to battle, fighting the battle and displaying the respect his presence commands after having won.

Costume:

celana - white leggings

stewel - adorned fabric in dancers' calves

setagen - belt

awiran - fabric that hangs in around around chest

lamak - fabric that hangs right in the middle of the chest

badong - collar around the neck

gelungan- triangular headdress

At the beginning of the dance, the dancer takes his time to study the enemy and the location. Movements are slow and careful. Towards the middle of the dance, the dancer gains confidence. Then, there is a pause in the dance where the dancer stands on his toes and starts dancing aggressively as if the battle has begun. The ending is calm and triumphant.

Solo Dance