Description
Book SynopsisThe stately bedhaya dances of the Central Javanese courts represent an ancient tradition of the House of Mataram. As they were considered an heirloom of Javanese royalty, the esoteric songs and choreographies accompanied by special gamelan music have almost fallen into oblivion. The present discussion on their form and content provides important information on the development of the Performing Arts in Java. It aims at preserving this beautiful tradition for future generations.
Trade Review'...it will be treated as equal to the most important studies of dance in general and will become a standard reference work for Javanese dance.' Rüdiger Schumacher, Bijdragen tot de Taal-, Land- en Volkenkunde, 149. 'The scope is very comprehensive...this excellent book is recommended for those libraries supporting programs specific to the study of Indonesian performing arts.' A.G. Kaplan, Choice, 1992. 'I can strongly recommend this book to those who are interested in the analysis of dance as a means of communication by text, context, music, dance formations and dance movements.' Wim van Zanten, Odion, 14.
