Barong Dance is the most popular of all the Balinese Dances. It depicts the typical traditional dance form; where a story -typically a myth or legend- is narrated through a series of choreographed movements and expressions. Indonesian myth and legends have links to the religion that precedes the island; Hinduism. Their tales are so powerful that when emulated in the form of dance it becomes almost hypnotizing. The Barong Dance is one such performance; powerful and intense this dance is the very epitome of the battle between the good and the evil.

The Barong Dance is purely classical and is comprised of a series of traditional moves. The tale narrated through this dance is actually a very interesting one. The dance begins with the beast Barong playfully enjoying the company of 2 monkeys. It then goes on to the ‘Keris Dance’ which narrates the actual legend of Rangda, the mother of the 10th century king of Bali, Erlangga. Her obsession with black magic got her condemned by her husband and as soon as he passed away she waged war on her son Erlangga by summoning the evil spirits from the jungle. This part is very powerfully portrayed in the dance and has a sinister aura about it. The troops of the evil spirits were too strong for Erlangga whose men fell into a trance of possession and turned their Keris towards themselves in a suicidal attempt. It was at this point that the help of Barong was beseeched. Barong the powerful beast cast an even stronger spell that protected the soldier’s from the blade of their Keris. In the end Barong and Erlangga emerge victorious.

This powerful myth in the form of dance captivates its audience. It is through such performances history and myth blend together creating a reality. Despite how entertaining it is, the Barong dance is in fact quite dangerous. There is a risk of serious injury by the pointed blade of the Keris. Perhaps it is this risk that makes the dance even more intriguing and adds a sense of thrill to it.

While choosing from the hotels in Seminyak, the W Retreat & Spa Bali Seminyak tops the list. This 5 star hotel Seminyak has certainly beats all the others.

Jayani Senanayake is a writer who dabbles in travel and all things exotic. Under the pseudonym of Caliope Sage, she writes of the allures that must simply be discovered.Google+