The Kecak dance is one of the most famous of Balinese dances. It is unusual because it has no musical accompaniment like many other Indonesian dances do, the rhythm of the dance is produced by the chanting 'monkey' chorus. Instead, a troupe of over 150 bare-chested men serve as the chorus, making a wondrous cacophony of synchronized "chak-achak-achak" clicking sounds while swaying their bodies and waving their hands .From that chanting noise of "Cak-cak-cak", then it gave the dance its name Kecak.
What makes the Kecak such a fascinating dance to watch are the fifty or so men in the checkered pants. They are both the choir and the props, providing the music for the story in a series of constant vocal chants that change with the mood of the actors. They don't sit still, either, they wave their arms to simulate fire, and reposition themselves around the stage to represent wind and fire, prison cells, and unseen hand of protection from the gods.
The dance is played in five acts and lasts roughly 45 minutes. It taken from the Hindu epic Ramayana, which tells the story of Prince Rama and his rescue of Princess Sita, who has been kidnapped by the evil King of Lanka, Rahwana and somehow with the help of the white monkey army, Rama rescues his wife and defeats the evil Rahwana.
Attending a Kecak recital is a must for any visitor to Bali. It is a wondrous experience, and a window into the musical and artistic culture that make the Balinese a special people.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Kecak Dance
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Sanur Beach Hotel Bali
Sanur Beach Hotel is located right on the Sanur beach front and is surrounded by landscaped gardens and shaded by whispering coconut palms.
Rooms
The hotel has comfortable guestrooms that are well furnished and equipped with modern amenities.
Restaurant
The Verandah restaurant serves Thai and Continental cuisine, while the Tirta restaurant offers buffet and pool side snacks, and Pizzeria providing Italian favourites in an al fresco environment.
General
The hotel offers a variety of recreational facilities including 2 swimming pools and a lagoon, fitness centre, tennis courts, badminton, volleyball, mini-golf, bicycle riding, children's playground and water sports.
The hotel has a great location on the beachfront and has nicely landscaped gardens. The rooms in the old wing are little dated and showing signs of wear and tear, but still represent good value. The hotel restaurants are good quality, but a little pricey, however, there are plenty of good restaurants outside the hotel or on the beachfront. The gym is well equipped, an excellent sauna, but disappointingly, no jacuzzi. The hotel is very quiet and largely patronised by retired couples ( mostly German); the staff are very friendly and helpful.
