Barong And Keris Dance

Overview of the Dance

Barong and Keris Dance is one of Bali’s most iconic and traditional dance performances. It is a Balinese ritual drama that symbolizes the eternal battle between good and evil, expressed through the figures of Barong (a lion-like creature representing god) and Rangda (the witch-like figure representing evil). The dance is accompanied by exhilarating music, detailed costumes, and dramatic storytelling, making it one of the must-see cultural performances in Bali. Barong and Keris Dance is typically performed as a ceremonial dance or entertainment, showcasing a battle between the forces of good and evil. The dance is rooted in Balinese Hindu Mythology and animism and often acts as both a religious ritual and a public spectacle.

• Barong : is a lion-like creature who represents the forces of god in Balinese mythology. He is the protector of the village and its people.
• Rangda : is the witch-like demon queen, represents evil and chaos. She is often depicted as a terrifying creature with a grotesque face and wild hair.

Storyline of The Dance

Barong and Keris Dance tells a captivating and symbolic story rooted in Balinese Hindu mythology. It depicts the eternal battle between the forces of good and evil, where Barong, a lion-like creature, represents the forces of good, and Rangda, a witch-like demon queen, represents the forces of evil. The storyline showcases a struggle for balance, protection, and the triumph of good over malevolent forces. Here’s an outline of the dance’s storyline :

Introduction of Barong and Rangda:

• The dance begins with the appearance of Barong, the lion-like guardian spirit of good, who appears as a creature with an ornate and intricate costume. He is the protector of the people, representing positive forces.
• Rangda, the demon queen, appears as a grotesque figure with a long, hanging tongue and wild hair. She represents evil and causes destruction.

The Battle:

• The dancers, often in the role of warriors, are enchanted by Rangda’s dark powers and, in a trance-like state, are forced to fight for her.
• The keris, a traditional dagger, plays a crucial role in the battle. The warriors under Rangda’s spell attempt to kill themselves with their keris in a trance, showing the power Rangda has over them.
• At this point, Barong steps in to save the warriors. He engages in a battle with Rangda, protecting the village and the people from the forces of evil.

Resolution:

• In the end, Barong’s protective forces prevail, and the warriors, who were under Rangda’s spell, are freed from her dark influence. The ceremony often ends with Barong chasing Rangda away, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

Key Characters

Barong and Keris Dance is a rich and dramatic performance that features key characters who represent gods and evil, playing important roles in the narrative. These characters not only embody mythological figures but also serve as symbolic representations of spiritual forces. Below are the key characters involved in the Barong and Keris Dance :

Barong

• Role : The Protector (Gods)
• Character Description : Barong is the central figure in the dance, symbolizing goodness, protection, and spiritual harmony. He is often depicted as a lion-like creature or a mythical animal with a large, decorated head, representing a guardian spirit that protects the community from evil forces.
  • Barong’s appearance is grand and majestic, with a fierce lion face, colorful ornaments, and elaborate decorations. His body is often covered in fabric and fur, making him look larger-than-life.
• Symbolism : Barong is associated with positive spiritual forces. He is a protector of the village and often linked with good spirits that bring prosperity, fertility, and health to the community.
• Personality : Barong’s movements are graceful and dignified, conveying his role as a guardian and bringer of peace. He serves as the protector against evil, which is represented by Rangda.

Rangda

• Role : The Witch (Evil)
• Character Description: Rangda is the embodiment of evil, chaos, and destruction. She is portrayed as an old, terrifying witch with a distorted face, sharp teeth, and wild hair. Rangda is often shown wearing a long black robe with a flowing, disheveled appearance, symbolizing her malicious, uncontrolled nature.
  • Her character is fearsome and grotesque, with exaggerated features like large, bulging eyes and sharp, menacing teeth. Rangda is a classic antagonist in Balinese mythology.
• Symbolism : Rangda represents destruction, death, and evil spirits. She seeks to destroy the harmony created by Barong and create chaos in the community. She also symbolizes death and the fear of the unknown, drawing power from the darker forces.
• Personality : Rangda’s movements are wild and erratic, highlighting her evil and dangerous nature. She is often shown dancing and casting spells, attempting to overcome Barong’s protective influence.

The Barong’s Followers (Gods Spirits)

• Role : The Loyal Supporters of Barong (Gods)
• Character Description : The Barong’s followers are dancers who support Barong in his fight against Rangda. They are typically portrayed as noble warriors or spirits who follow Barong’s command and assist in defending against Rangda’s dark powers.
  • These dancers are usually seen wearing bright-colored traditional attire and carrying various symbolic weapons. They are loyal and brave and act as Barong’s support team during the battle against Rangda’s evil forces.
• Symbolism : The followers symbolize divine forces, good spirits, and the power of harmony. They act as the physical manifestation of spiritual support, ensuring that the forces of evil are kept at bay.

Rangda’s Followers (Evil Spirits)

• Role : The Minions of Evil (Evil)
• Character Description : Rangda’s followers are usually depicted as evil spirits or demonic beings who serve her in her quest for destruction. They are often shown wearing dark robes, with intense facial expressions and ferocious movements, reflecting their malevolent nature.
  • Some of Rangda’s followers carry keris (traditional Balinese daggers), which they wield during the dance. These followers act under Rangda’s influence, performing frantic, trance-like movements that are meant to display their possession by evil spirits.
• Symbolism : Rangda’s followers symbolize the destructive forces of the universe, and their role is to show the dangerous power of evil. They are meant to contrast with Barong’s followers and illustrate the ongoing spiritual struggle between good and evil.

The Trance Dancers (Possessed by Rangda’s Evil Spirits)

• Role : Victims of Possession (Evil)
• Character Description :  These are the dancers who are possessed by Rangda’s evil spirits during the performance. Under Rangda’s influence, they enter a trance-like state, which makes them appear out of control and violent. They may appear to stab themselves with keris (daggers) or engage in erratic behavior.
  • These trance dancers are often shown as vulnerable but strong in their devotion to Rangda. Their out-of-control actions reflect the destructive nature of the evil spirits that have taken hold of them.
• Symbolism : The trance dancers symbolize the unleashing of evil and the chaos that Rangda brings. Their wild actions serve as a physical manifestation of the destructive force of evil, and their apparent self-harm represents the dangerous power of malevolent forces in the world.

Performance Elements

Barong and Keris Dance is a highly captivating and culturally significant performance that incorporates several elements that make it unique. These performance elements combine storytelling, traditional music, spiritual rituals, and intricate choreography to create a powerful theatrical experience. Below are the key performance elements of this traditional Balinese dance :

Choreography

• Stylized Movement : The dance involves a series of stylized movements that reflect the character’s personality. Barong’s movements are typically graceful and majestic, symbolizing goodness, while Rangda’s movements are erratic and wild, representing evil and chaos.

• Symbolic Gestures : Every movement is rich with symbolism, and each character’s gestures communicate their essence. Barong’s movements are meant to inspire protection and harmony, while Rangda’s frenetic gestures symbolize destruction and the uncontrollable nature of evil.

• Trance Movements : One of the most striking features of the dance is the trance-like state of the dancers. Followers of Rangda, under her evil influence, display uncontrolled movements, which can appear erratic and dangerous. This trance effect heightens the intensity and drama of the performance.

Music

• Gamelan Orchestra : The dance is accompanied by a traditional Gamelan orchestra, which is an ensemble of percussion instruments, including gongs, drums, xylophones, and metallophones. The music is essential to setting the emotional tone and rhythm of the performance.

• • Rhythmic Intensity : The music becomes faster and more intense during the battle scenes, heightening the drama. The deep, resonant sounds of the gongs and the energetic beats of the drums help create a sense of urgency and tension.

• • Emotional Atmosphere : The Gamelan music guides the audience through different emotional states, from the peaceful and harmonious presence of Barong to the frenzied and chaotic energy brought by Rangda.

Costumes and Makeup

• Elaborate Costumes : Costumes are one of the most eye-catching elements of the Barong and Keris Dance.

• • Barong Costume : Barong is represented by a large, lion-like creature with a massive, intricately decorated head. The costume is adorned with colorful beads, feathers, mirrors, and golden ornaments, reflecting the grandeur and spiritual power of the character.

• • Rangda Costume : Rangda is portrayed as an evil witch-like figure with a grotesque, terrifying face. Her costume is typically dark, flowing, and adorned with sinister details, symbolizing her malevolent power. The long hair, sharp teeth, and wild appearance give her a truly fearsome look.

• • Followers Costume : The dancers who support Barong wear brightly colored traditional attire, representing the good spirits, while Rangda’s followers are dressed in dark, threatening clothing, further emphasizing the evil forces they represent.

• Facial Makeup : The makeup is dramatic and symbolic, especially for Rangda. Her face is painted in ghastly, exaggerated features, with large eyes and sharp, menacing teeth to reflect her evil nature. Barong’s makeup is usually more serene, designed to represent protection and strength.

The Trance State

• Spiritual Possession : One of the most remarkable aspects of the Barong and Keris Dance is the trance element, where the dancers enter a state of possession. This is particularly evident in the followers of Rangda.

• • The dancers are believed to be temporarily possessed by evil spirits, leading to erratic, aggressive movements. They often hold keris (traditional daggers) and appear to try to stab themselves in a trance-like state.
  • The trance state represents the spiritual battle between good and evil, and the performers’ ability to seemingly harm themselves and not be injured is attributed to the protective power of Barong.

Keris (Dagger) Ritual

• Symbolism of the Keris :  Keris is an important symbolic object in the Barong and Keris Dance. It represents spiritual power and is wielded by Rangda’s followers in their trance state.

• • The dancers use the keris in dramatic, intense movements, often slashing the air or appearing to stab themselves. However, due to the protective power of Barong, no harm actually comes to the dancers.
  • The keris serves as a reminder of the balance of power in the universe, with good (Barong) ultimately overcoming evil (Rangda).

Narrative and Storytelling

• Good vs. Evil : The story told through the Barong and Keris Dance is a battle between good and evil. Barong, symbolizing good, protects the community, while Rangda, representing evil, tries to bring chaos and destruction.

• • The performance is a visual narrative where the audience witnesses the struggle between Barong’s followers and Rangda’s evil forces. This battle is not just physical but metaphysical, with each side representing opposing spiritual energies.
  • The narrative unfolds through the actions of the dancers, who interact with each other, leading to moments of intense conflict and resolution.

Interaction with the Audience

• Engagement with the Audience : The Barong and Keris Dance often features direct interaction with the audience, especially during moments when dancers are in their trance states. The dancers may seem as if they are moving toward the spectators or even appearing to interact with them, making the experience more immersive.

• Suspense and Drama : The audience is often on the edge of their seat, especially when the dancers wield their keris and appear to be in danger of harming themselves or others. This interaction heightens the suspense and engagement, making the audience feel the tension and the spiritual intensity of the performance.

 Lighting and Atmosphere

• Theatrical Lighting : The lighting during the performance plays a key role in setting the atmosphere. Dim or dramatic lighting enhances the mystical, supernatural feel of the dance, while bright lights might be used during moments of Barong’s victory or to symbolize the defeat of evil.

• Outdoor vs. Indoor Performances : The Barong and Keris Dance is often performed in open-air theaters or temple courtyards, where natural light and the surrounding environment add to the mysticism and authenticity of the experience. The setting further immerses the audience in the cultural and spiritual context of the performance.

Cultural and Religious Significance

Barong and Keris Dance is deeply embedded in Bali’s cultural and religious traditions. It is more than just an artistic performance; it is a spiritual ritual that reflects Bali’s belief system, its mythology, and the importance of maintaining cosmic balance. Here are the key cultural and religious significances of the dance :

Representation of Good vs. Evil

• Barong and Keris Dance portrays the eternal battle between the forces of good and evil. This concept is a fundamental part of Balinese culture and Hinduism in Bali. Barong, the lion-like creature, symbolizes good, protection, order, and prosperity, while Rangda, the evil witch-queen, represents evil, destruction, chaos, and death.
• The dance embodies the constant struggle between these opposing forces, reflecting the belief that both good and evil are inherent parts of the world, and that one cannot exist without the other. The dance is a reminder of the need to maintain balance in the world and in one’s life.

Spiritual Protection

• One of the most significant religious purposes of the Barong and Keris Dance is spiritual protection. In Bali, the dance is often performed as part of temple ceremonies or rituals to ward off evil spirits and to protect the community from misfortune, illness, or negative energies.
• Barong, as a guardian spirit, is believed to have the ability to shield the people from harm. During the performance, the battle between Barong and Rangda symbolizes the ongoing effort to keep evil forces at bay and to ensure spiritual harmony within the community.
• The trance-like states that some of the dancers enter during the performance are also seen as a form of spiritual cleansing, where evil spirits are temporarily exorcised from the participants, allowing them to be free of negative influences.

Symbol of Balance in Hinduism

• In Balinese Hinduism, the concept of balance—specifically the balance between good and evil, life and death, order and chaos—is central to understanding the world. The Barong and Keris Dance is a reflection of this duality.
  • Barong is the embodiment of the positive cosmic force, representing harmony, health, and prosperity.
  • Rangda, on the other hand, symbolizes the destructive force of death and chaos that must be controlled to ensure the continuation of life and societal order.
• The dance is an expression of the spiritual belief that good must always strive to overcome evil for the preservation of life and balance.

Ritualistic Nature

• The dance is not just entertainment, it has a ritualistic function that plays an essential role in Balinese religious ceremonies. It is often performed in temples or sacred places during festivals, such as odalan (temple anniversaries), and other ceremonies meant to purify or protect the community.
• The trance state that the dancers enter, especially the followers of Rangda, is considered part of the ritualistic process, where the evil spirits are believed to possess the performers. The ceremonial nature of this performance provides the community with a sense of spiritual security and offers a channel to connect with the divine.

Symbolism of Keris

• Keris (traditional dagger) plays a vital role in the dance as a symbol of power and spiritual protection. The weapon represents the spiritual strength that allows the dancers to face the forces of evil.
• Keris is believed to carry magical and mystical properties, and in the context of the dance, it symbolizes the physical and spiritual weapon used by the forces of evil (Rangda’s followers). However, the protection of Barong ensures that the dancers are not harmed, highlighting the power of good over evil.

Exorcism and Healing

• Barong and Keris Dance is sometimes considered a form of exorcism or healing ritual. The trance-dancers, who are believed to be possessed by evil spirits, are healed or cleansed by the dance’s spiritual forces. Keris-wielding dancers, who seem to stab themselves, are believed to be purging evil energy under the influence of Rangda, but the protective force of Barong ensures they are unharmed.
• The performance serves as a collective ritual of purification, where the community can release negative energies and restore spiritual balance.

Ceremonial Role in Community Life

• The Barong and Keris Dance is closely tied to the community’s life cycle and rituals. It is not only an entertainment form but also a communal activity that strengthens social and spiritual bonds. When performed during a temple ceremony, it fosters a sense of unity among the community as they come together to ensure spiritual well-being and prosperity.
• The dance is a way of expressing gratitude to the gods, acknowledging the divine forces, and reinforcing the sense of togetherness within the community. It reinforces the idea that the community’s collective efforts, through rituals and performances, maintain harmony and balance in the world.

 Connection to Ancient Balinese Beliefs

• The Barong and Keris Dance is rooted in Bali’s pre-Hindu animistic beliefs and mythology, where deities, spirits, and mythical creatures played an important role in daily life. Even after the advent of Hinduism on the island, many local animist traditions continued to influence cultural practices, and the Barong figure likely has origins in these ancient beliefs as a spirit guardian.
• Over time, it evolved into its present form as a Hindu-influenced dance-drama, but it still retains elements of Bali’s ancestral spiritual practices. Barong, in this sense, is not only a Hindu deity but also an ancestral guardian spirit that transcends the religious boundaries of time.

Symbol of Reconciliation

• The dance also conveys the message of reconciliation. While Barong and Rangda are in conflict, it’s important to understand that both characters play crucial roles in the cosmic order. This dance reflects Bali’s belief that both good and evil are needed to maintain the natural flow of life.
• Harmony can only be achieved when these forces are in balance, and the performance symbolizes the constant effort to keep this equilibrium intact.

Tips for Watching Barong and Keris Dance

Watching Barong and Keris Dance is an exciting and culturally enriching experience. To make the most of your visit and truly appreciate the performance, here are some tips to enhance your experience :

• Check Schedules : Many of the venues have regular performances, but it’s always a good idea to check the specific performance schedule in advance to avoid missing out.

• Arrive Early : Popular venues like Batubulan and Ubud Palace can get crowded, so it’s good to arrive 15–30 minutes early to get the best seats.

• Enjoy the Entire Experience : The dance typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour, and staying for the entire show allows you to fully witness the unfolding of the cosmic struggle between good and evil.

• Avoid Distractions : Keep noise and distractions to a minimum during the performance. Silence your phone or avoid taking flash photography, as it can disrupt the performers and other attendees.

• Photography and Videos : In some places, photography and video recording may be allowed, while in others it may be restricted. Always ask before taking photos or videos to avoid disturbing the performance.

Where to See the Dance

The Barong and Keris Dance is performed regularly in cultural centers and temples in Bali, with some of the best-known locations being :

• Batubulan Village (near Denpasar) : A popular venue where you can see professional performances.
• Ubud : A central hub for Balinese arts and culture where you can watch the dance.
• Other temples and cultural venues around Bali also host this iconic performance.

Why Watching Barong and Keris Dance ?

Watching Barong and Keris Dance is a unique and immersive experience for tourists. You get to witness an important part of Balinese culture, enjoy the artistry of the dancers, and feel the powerful energy of the music and performance. The dance’s dramatic storyline, combined with the mystical trance element, leaves a lasting impression and offers a deep insight into Bali’s spiritual and artistic traditions.

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