As Asian communities worldwide prepare to ring in the Year of the Snake, Indonesia’s Naga Merah Putih dragon dance club is beating the drum for an extra special lunar new year celebration. This talented troupe, named for the red and white of the Indonesian flag, transformed a local shopping mall in Bogor, West Java into a festival of color, movement, and music that left spectators spellbound.
Dragon Dance Steeped in Tradition
Dragon dance, known as barongsai in Indonesia, is an ancient art form believed to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. Troupes like Naga Merah Putih carry on this proud tradition, training diligently to perfect their gravity-defying acrobatics and mesmerizing choreography.
The club practices in the abandoned back area of a small local storefront, watched by curious onlookers. Members range in age from children to adults, united by their passion for this centuries-old custom. When not in use, the elaborate dragon and lion puppets rest on shelves, silent and still until stirred to life by their skilled animators.
Welcoming the Snake with Style
After intense rehearsals, Naga Merah Putih piled into a small truck, puppets and all, to bring their lunar new year magic to the masses at the mall. Those who couldn’t squeeze in followed on motorbikes, a procession of excitement and anticipation.
The crowd went wild as an undulating dragon emerged, “flying” through the air in a display of power and grace. Drums pounded and cymbals crashed as lion dancers pranced and leapt to a mesmerizing beat.
After the breathtaking performance, delighted audience members posed for photos with members in full costume. The troupe also gratefully accepted traditional angpau envelopes as tokens of appreciation and to bring good fortune in the coming year.
Preserving Culture, Creating Joy
For the members of Naga Merah Putih, dragon dance is more than just a holiday performance. It is a vital link to their heritage, a vibrant art form that promotes cooperation, discipline, and cultural pride. By sharing their skills and passion with the community, they spread happiness and nurture understanding.
- Lunar new year is a time of renewal – out with the old, in with the new
- Dragon and lion dances are believed to chase away bad luck and usher in a prosperous future
- For troupes like Naga Merah Putih, the season is both joyful and busy as they bring smiles to countless faces
As the Year of the Snake slithers in, Indonesia’s mighty dragon dancers prove that ancient traditions never go out of style. Through their artistry and dedication, they bridge past and present, uniting young and old in a joyful celebration of culture and community. Gong xi fa cai, Naga Merah Putih – thank you for a roaring start to lunar new year!
