Buffalo Hosts Inaugural Balinese Gamelan and Dance Celebration

Bali Comes to Buffalo! – A Celebration Performance

Buffalo's cultural landscape is about to be enriched with the traditional sounds and movements of Bali, thanks to the debut performance of the Balinese Bronze gamelan and dance group. Hailing from Indonesia, Balinese culture will be represented in Buffalo by Nusantara Arts, a non-profit organization dedicated to Indonesian culture. The event will take place on Saturday, December 16, promising an evening of authentic music and dance from the tropical island of Bali.

An Ensemble of Local and Guest Talent

The performance will not only include local artists but also feature revered guest performers such as Gusti Komin and Ayu Ari Candrawati, who are well-known for their expertise in Balinese music and dance. With an assembly of 20 local performers, the event is set to be a grand exhibition of cultural talent.

Gusti Nyoman “Komin” Darta – Guest Balinese Artistic Director

Komin, a distinguished Balinese musician, is admired for his mastery of the traditional gamelan Semar Pegulingan, as well as his skill in the Barong Dance. From a musically inclined family in Pengosekan village, Komin developed his talent by learning from his father and the community. Renowned for his involvement in Cudamani, one of Bali's most famous performing arts ensembles, Komin has been imparting his knowledge in the US for over a decade. His expertise in gamelan has influenced students at various colleges and community groups across the country.

Ida Ayu Ari Candrawati – Master Balinese Dancer

Candrawati's profound experience in Balinese dance began at the age of seven, and since then she's honed her skills to become an accomplished dancer in professional ensembles, including international tours. With a background as a dance director and teacher, she's revered for her pedagogical approach in teaching Balinese dance in the US.

Nusantara Arts Introduces Balinese Culture to Buffalo

The upcoming event is a significant addition to Nusantara Arts' eight-year history of promoting Javanese music in Buffalo. After acquiring a set of Balinese Semar Pegulingan instruments, the organization is extending its programs to include Balinese arts.

Attendees will experience an enchanting spectrum of gamelan compositions, delving into both historical and contemporary styles. Additionally, the program will feature performances of the sacred Rejang Dewa dance and the expressive Topeng Keras mask dance. The evening is a rare opportunity for Buffalo’s audience to immerse themselves in the artful melodies of Balinese gamelan and the captivating elegance of its dance forms.

Event Details and Venue Information

The cultural extravaganza will kick off at 7:00 pm, with doors opening at 6:30 pm, at the Nusantara Arts Culture Center, located at 51 Colonial Circle, Buffalo, NY. A variety of seating options are available, including traditional floor seating that offers an intimate encounter with Indonesian culture. In addition, general seated admission ensures that everyone has a spot to enjoy the performances. While the venue is currently not wheelchair accessible, there are plans to improve its inclusivity in the future.

The gamelan music played at Nusantara Arts is part of the Semar Pegulingan tradition, hailing from Bali's royal courts. The music is characterized by its melodious and gentle nature, produced by uniquely tuned instruments that create a resonant, undulating sound.

music, dance, culture