North Sulawesi: Kabasaran / Kawasaran Dance

A. Brief Information

Kabasaran dance is one of the traditional dances from Minahasa performed in groups wearing red clothes, showing cruel faces and bulging out eyes. While the dancers are lifting swords and spears, the Tambur (traditional percussion from Minahasa) is always played during the dance. In the past, most of the Kabasaran dancers were farmers who became the dancers of Kabasaran when there was a customary festivity. If Minahasa region was on the war situation, the Kabasaran dancers turned become soldiers called Waranei. The basic formations of the dance are Santi (nine steps swords) and Wingkow (nine steps spears) with fourth quarter of Kuda-kuda (one of the movement techniques in self-defense) that consists of two left steps and two right steps.

As the Kabasaran dance is a hereditary skill, each dancer has a sword that is inherited by his or her ancestors. The Kabasaran dance consists of three steps, Cakalele, Lumoyak, and Lalaya‘an. In present, it is often performed for welcoming regional guests and celebrating cultural festivities taken place in the North Sulawesi.

B. Distinctive Features

The Kabasaran dance is totally different from other dancers in Indonesia that frequently show smile and graceful movements. Red color combined with cruel faces make-up and rising fighting spirit music dominates the celebration of the Kabasaran dance.

In addition, the dancers are also provided with swords and spears so the dance looks rapid and cruel. The Kabasaran dance is a traditional heroism dance coming from word Wasal which means roosters whose combs are cut off intended to make them be more ferocious in fighting. The sound of Tambur, Gong and Kulintang usually called Kawasalan (dancing by impersonating two fighting roosters) will be great composition that will burn our spirit.

C. Location

Just come to Minahasa dance group named Tumau Tao Lestari that located in the Paslaten I and Paslatan II village at Tomohon city in the North Sulawesi Province, Indonesia. It is around 22 km away from Manado city.

D. Access

The devotees of the dance may visit Tumau Tao Lestari by land using minibus, taxi or any kind of transportation vehicles.

E. Ticket Price

If you are eager to watch the dance, you must consider how many couples of the dancers that will be ordered. Since the dance must be played in groups, the more couples the more attractive the dance. As a consequence, you must pay higher for more interesting performance.

F. Accommodation and Other Facilities

The dance group located in Tomohon region where it can be found many hotels. 

Source:www.wisatamelayu.com