UNS – The Coordination Board of Traditional Culture (BKKT) at Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS) Surakarta made a remarkable return. They performed at the 19th World Dance Day (WDD) 24-Hour Dance event. The Institut Seni Indonesia (ISI) Surakarta hosted the event. On Monday (29/4/2025), BKKT showcased a captivating performance titled Bedhaya Saptasrawana, one of the special highlights of the 24-hour celebration. The event, known for its nonstop dance performances. Moreover, it also attracted a diverse audience who witnessed a unique fusion of spirituality and tradition.
Exploring the Spiritual Depth of Bedhaya Saptasrawana
The Bedhaya Saptasrawana dance carried on the theme “Spiritual Harmony in the Perfection of Life.” It explored the deep philosophical concepts of Saptasrawana (seven sacred hearings) and Papat Kiblat (four cardinal directions of life). These profound elements intertwined within the spiritual awareness of humanity.
Through this performance, BKKT UNS presented a modern interpretation, enhancing the dance’s traditional significance. Featuring 11 dancers, the performance drew attention to the artistic and spiritual nature of Indonesian traditional dance.
Creative Contributions to the Performance
According to BKKT UNS Public Relations Officer, Najwa Annastya Pramesti, Bedhaya Saptasrawana was an original choreographed piece. It is the result of intense internal collaboration. The performance featured 11 talented dancers. They included Hellen Vicky Monalisa, Nikmatull Tsalasa Putri, and Nita Kusuma Putri. Other dancers were Nita Sri Widayati, Valerina Siska Megarantantri, and Fahma Wijaya Sukma. Masinda Nahar Kanaya, Angela Gysca Ariella, and Mahiswari Adya Mumpuni also joined the performance. Iodesma I. S. Pamulatsih and Derren Romentiska Asmara Khrisna completed the lineup. The performers wore elegant costumes. The 21 young UNS musicians played traditional gamelan music. Together, they created an atmosphere that was both mystical and emotionally engaging.
The dancers and musicians were not the only contributors to the performance. Choreographers Aline Dwi Putri Agnesia, Azzahra Rasdyan Eka Putri, and Stefani Ayudya Prasetyo contributed to the performance’s success. Their creative efforts played a key role in its success. The musical arrangement by Maritza Novalina Kusuma Wardhani, Raysandy Satrio Wicaksono, and Muhamad Davi Andang Pragama enriched the piece. It enhanced the spiritual tone of the performance. The lighting design by Vadya Sulistyo played a vital role in enhancing the overall presentation. Stage management by Hafshoh Sri Lestari and Muhammad Ammar Azfa also contributed to the performance’s success.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
Expressing pride in BKKT UNS’s participation, Najwa emphasized the importance of traditional arts in preserving Indonesia’s cultural heritage. She shared, “We are truly honored to perform at ISI Surakarta’s 24-Hour Dance. This event provides an excellent platform for self-expression. It is also an opportunity to introduce and preserve traditional arts for a broader audience.”
This year, the 19th World Dance Day 24-Hour Dance carried the theme “Land of Thousand Kingdoms.” It highlighted the rich cultural heritage, history, and royal legacies of the archipelago. The event served as a collective celebration of the nation’s diverse ethnic groups, customs, and traditions. It performed artistic expressions as a unifying force for Indonesia. Humas UNS
