Regional Rhythms: the traditional dances of Southeast Asia

As a region, Southeast Asia stands out for its rich cultural diversity, heritage, and creativity. Blending tradition with modernity, the countries and their people have, over the years, developed artistic expressions of profound stories that hold great significance in the history of each of the communities.

Traditional dances are also an important part of community life and serve as a stunning pageantry and representation of identity, history, and values.

“The traditional dances of Southeast Asia are known the world over for their intricate movements, mesmerizing costumes, and profound stories,” Jigs Davios, owner of a dance studio, told Thai PBS World.

“Classical dance narratives and vibrant folk dances of the region easily captivate audiences across countries and generations because of the diverse presentation of styles and heritage,” she added.

The classical dance narratives of Southeast Asia are cherished artistic depictions of historical myths and legends.

Iconic expressions

“During various cultural events and traditional gatherings in the region, these dance forms serve as powerful expressions of cultural identity and creative spirit,” Jigs explained.

“Hopefully, through continued practice and appreciation, these art forms will continue to thrive and inspire generations to come well into the future.”

Some of the classical dance narratives of Southeast Asia include the Ramayana.

It is a Hindu epic recounting the life and journey of Rama that has been adapted into dance dramas across countries in Southeast Asia, such as Cambodia, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Laos, and Brunei.

The Wayang Wong of Indonesia is a traditional Javanese dance drama that portrays the stories of the Ramayana and Mahabrata.

Thailand has Lakhon Nai, a classical Thai court dance that is usually accompanied by verse recitation or narrative songs telling tales of mythology and history.

“It is a dance-drama presentation that was performed exclusively within the royal court by an all-female cast. Only the king, his guests, and members of the court would be allowed to watch the performance.

The journey of lakhon nai can be traced back to the Ayutthaya period when, it is believed, lakhon nai flourished,” explained Sujitra, a student of dance history.

Lakhon nai showcases refinement and elegance, with maidens dressed in elaborate costumes and glittering headdresses.

“The classical dance movements involved can take years to master. Nowadays, lakhon nai performances are no longer exclusive to the royal palace and can be performed by any gender,” she said.

Folk dances

Southeast Asia’s indigenous and folk dances are reflections of community life, agricultural rituals, and regional practices passed on from generation to generation.

These traditional folk dances may no longer be as popular as they were many years ago, but are now showcased in various traditional events and performances across the region.

“Southeast Asia is rich in historical, ethnic, and spiritual influences, which explains why our traditional dances are a representation of unmatched beauty and complexity,” Jigs continued.

“Because of our rich cultural diversity, unique stories told through our diverse traditional folk dances create a colorful tapestry of regional culture and heritage.”

“The Indonesian Samon folk dance of the Dayak people of Kalimantan, for instance, is performed to give thanks for a bountiful harvest and to attract more blessings from the gods."

In Myanmar, they have a lively folk dance where dancers perform intricate steps while navigating through bamboo poles.

The dance form celebrates bamboo’s significance to the livelihood of the locals. Similar to Myanmar’s bamboo dance is the Philippines’ tinikling where dancers imitate the movements of farm birds as they hop between bamboo poles.

“Meanwhile, a communal folk dance called ramwong is often performed during festivals and celebrations in some areas of Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and even Malaysia. The lively dance creates an atmosphere of joy and unity among the participants."

“Vietnam has its bai choi, a unique form of traditional performance blending music, poetry, dance, and theater. It reflects the culture of the central coast of Vietnam. This dance form was also recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage,” Jigs added.

National treasures

Indeed, the region’s classical and traditional folk dances encompass a diverse range of captivating styles and rich cultural heritage.

“The traditional dances of Southeast Asia have captured the hearts and minds of many dance enthusiasts from far and wide, and they still continue to captivate global audiences today whenever they are performed during special events and occasions. The rhythms of the region presented through our classical and folk dances, I believe, will still continue to resonate through generations,” she enthused.

(This story is part of a series about the vanishing cultural traditions in Southeast Asia.)