Kecak and Cultural Tourism on Bali

The kecak is a famous dramatic dance performance practice on Bali that has been a major tourist attraction since the 1930s. This book provides a comprehensive study of its history, form, and cultural significance, analyzing its connection with cultural tourism and tourists' perspectives.

Format: Hardback
Length: 389 pages
Publication date: 14 December 2021
Publisher: Boydell & Brewer Ltd

The kecak is a captivating and renowned dramatic dance performance practice found on the enchanting island of Bali. Based on the ancient Indian Ramayana epic, this mesmerizing performance is brought to life by an ensemble of male and female solo dancers, accompanied by a hundred men who serve as both musicians and living scenery. Since its inception in the 1930s, the kecak has primarily been a spectacle for tourists, captivating audiences with its rich cultural significance.

In her comprehensive study, Kendra Stepputat delves deep into the history, form, and cultural significance of the kecak. The first part of the book focuses on the kecak in its present form, exploring its musical, choreographic, and dramatic elements. The author meticulously analyzes the intricate connection between cultural tourism on Bali and the kecak performance practice, shedding light on the dependency between tourism professionals and artists and the various strategies employed to promote the kecak.

Furthermore, the book addresses the perspectives of tourists regarding the kecak, providing valuable insights into their experiences and impressions. The second part of the book delves into the genesis and development of the kecak from the 1930s onward, tracing its journey from a local performance to a globally recognized tourist genre. The author explores the factors that contributed to the kecak's enduring popularity among tourists, as well as the challenges and opportunities it faces in the modern world.

Through her meticulous research and engaging writing style, Kendra Stepputat offers a profound exploration of the kecak, providing a valuable contribution to the field of cultural studies. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Bali's rich cultural heritage, as well as the broader phenomenon of cultural tourism and its impact on local communities.

Weight: 692g
Dimension: 169 x 235 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781648250316