Piring Dance of Bukittinggi City, Indonesia
One of the reasons for visiting Bukittinggi City is definitely to learn some interesting cultural attractions, including local dances. In this case, tourists would be interested in a historical and meaningful entertainment called Piring Dance. “Piring” means plates, actually. According to the locals, the dance belongs to Minangkabau Tribe and it has been performed over time either as entertainment or religious requirement. For tourists, though, the dance becomes a unique attraction that they can enjoy during a vacation in Bukittinggi. Moreover, some of them are interested in its history and other trivial information regarding the dance.
The Nuance
Most of the time, Piring Dance becomes the part of Minang wedding ceremony. The dancers perform it as an entertainment and they do it passionately. Usually, the dancers are all males but some women dancers also perform it sometimes. What about the attire? The dancers wear traditional clothes of Minang with unique and silky fabric. The dominant color is orange and dancers don’t wear any footwear during the performance. When it comes to accessories, as the name suggests, the dancers may carry a plate on both hands!
Exploring Piring Dance
Many people come to Bukittinggi and watch Piring Dance for more than just an entertainment, after all. Another reason is to learn the history of such unique dance. According to the locals, the dance has been there since the 12th century! Also, it has been the part of Minang society for generations. In the past, the locals perform the dance to show gratefulness toward the God due to the abundant crops and blessings. The dance even has been performed by those people before the influence of Islam in Minang.
After Islam caused a big impact in Minang society, it did the same thing to Piring Dance. Instead of being an offering dance, it simply provides entertainment to villagers. These days, people only perform the dance during special occasions like weddings and other local ceremonies. Due to this reason, tourists should talk to a tour agent first regarding the schedule of the dance before coming to Bukittinggi. Otherwise, they may miss the chance to watch or enjoy the dance during the holiday!
When it comes to the moves, Piring Dance combines several beautiful movements reflecting both magical and acrobatic values. It is said these moves tell the activity of farmers doing their jobs. As for the number of dancers, it consists of 3 – 5 dancers. Here is the tip for tourists. During the performance, the audience is allowed to take pictures but they should not use the flash (as it may disturb the dancers).
Other Attractions
- Payung Dance
- Barek Solok Traditional Song
- Ayam Den Lapeh Traditional Song
How to Get There
The best place to witness Piring Dance is definitely Bukittinggi City. If tourists come from Padang City, they may spend a trip of about 2 hours and 13 minutes. The distance is 95.7 km and the best route to take is Lintas Barat Sumatra Street. Once again, make sure to come at the right time or you may lose the chance to watch the dance.
Where to Stay
- Pusako Hotel
- Graha Muslim Hotel
- Mitra Arena Hotel
- Nikita Palace Hotel
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