Archipelago Dance: Indonesia's Wonderful Cultural Asset

Abstract

Indonesia is known worldwide as a country rich in Arts & Culture, particularly its captivating and unique dances, also known as Tari Nusantara. The diverse range of Nusantara dances makes it an enticing subject for researchers to delve deeper into the process of Cultural Transformation, which involves openness among the Indonesian society in accepting the presence of foreign cultures through the processes of Inculturation and Acculturation. Over time, Nusantara dances have undergone evolution in four different
artistic eras, which are still evident today in their form, style, makeup, costumes, props, dance movements, and accompanying music. These four eras are: (1) Prehistoric-themed Dances; (2) Hindu-Buddhist-themed Dances; (3) Chinese-themed Dances; and (4) Islamicthemed Dances. Tari Nusantara is a wonderful cultural asset that contributes to the social capital and national pride of Indonesia.

Keywords: Archipelago Dance; Indonesia Wonderful; Cultural Aset