CHI AWARDS 2023, A Special Tribute to Dance Artists in Indonesia

Kapanlagi.com - Following the success of the CHI Awards 2018, which was presented through the drama of Indonesian Traditional Fabric-Batik, this time the Al-Maryati/AlMar Foundation presents the CHI Awards 2023. This year, the CHI Awards are given to individuals who have shown extraordinary dedication in preserving and developing the cultural heritage of Indonesia.

The CHI Awards is a prestigious event aimed at honoring individuals who have shown exceptional dedication in preserving and developing the cultural heritage of Indonesia. CHI itself stands for The Cultural Heritage of Indonesia, which is an association dedicated to participating in preserving and developing the cultural arts of Indonesia. To achieve its goals, CHI will collaborate with various parties in organizing its programs.

Indonesia, with its rich cultural heritage, has many traditional dances from all over the archipelago, from Sabang to Merauke. Dance is one branch of art that uses human body movements as a means of expression. There are at least three main functions of dance, namely dance as a ritual ceremony, dance as personal entertainment, and dance as a performing art.

Some of these dances have received international recognition, such as the Saman Dance from Aceh, the Kecak Dance from Bali, and many others. These meaningful dances not only become a source of national pride, but also contribute to the nation's identity.

1. The Significant Role of Dance Maestros

To preserve these dances, it is undeniable that the dance maestros play a significant role. Their achievements, commitment, and consistency in delving into the 'ups and downs' of the dance world with extraordinary passion deserve recognition.

Their responsibilities are not only about the accountability for their own dances, as every element within a dance will also 'come alive' and be preserved while maintaining the life of the dance. For instance, the dancers' costumes, full of ornaments, details, and even meanings, as well as the musical instruments, gamelan, percussion, strings, and accompanying songs. Not to mention the distinctive makeup and the astonishing stories behind a dance choreography.

The dance maestros carry all of these in the context of cultural preservation, while they are also required to creatively create original dances within the cultural boundaries of their respective regions, which require above-average auditory sensitivity. Without it, it would be difficult to synchronize the spirit of dance movements with the spirit of the accompanying music.

2. Presenting 3 Prestigious Categories

CHI Awards 2023 (Photo Credit: Personal Documentation)

The CHI Awards 2023 was held on Thursday (9/11) at The Habibie & Ainun Library, Jakarta. There are a total of 3 awards given, namely "Successor", "Preserver" and Special Award "Amerta Askara Budaya".

The winners of the CHI Awards 2023 are as follows:

ELLY D. LUTAN
Category Awards 'Successor of Indonesian Dance Art'

ERY MEFRI - The Maestro of Minang Dance
Category Awards Successor of Indonesian Dance Art

NI KETUT ARINI - THE EMPU OF BALI DANCE
Category PRESERVER OF INDONESIAN DANCE ART.

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