A Thousand Dancers by the Sea: My Experience at Gandrung Sewu in Banyuwangi I had heard whispers of this mesmerizing event years ago—a sea of dancers moving in perfect harmony on a beach in Banyuwangi, East Java. The idea of witnessing a thousand Gandrung dancers performing together felt almost
Applying for a Schengan Visa is quiet a time consuming process. There is a lot of preparation required before even thinking about filling out your application form and booking in your appointment. When I was in Australia, once I had all of my documents ready to go, I then
My journey through various dance styles, culminating in an unexpected challenge to perform freestyle at an event called Blossom Through the Memories. Confronting my fears head-on, this experience marked a pivotal moment in my path to embracing freestyle dance and reclaiming my confidence.
I never imagined myself diving into the world of Theatre in Bali. I’d always admired it from afar, but being part of it seemed out of reach. That all changed when Bumi Bajra, a Balinese Theatre group specialising in the traditional art of Gambuh, reached out to me. It
Blending traditional Indonesian dance with spontaneous photography in an impromptu backyard photoshoot, using custom Lightroom presets to capture the essence of our heritage.
A journey to learning traditional Balinese dance in Bali. From childhood exposure in Australia to a determined search for the perfect dance school in Bali, the narrative captures the challenges faced, including language barriers and varying teaching styles. Including a list of other schools explored during the her quest.
Explore the challenges of dual identity, from navigating languages and racism in Australia to a transformative experience in Indonesia. This narrative promotes embracing uniqueness and celebrating personal growth through life's twists.
In 2023, Deena participated in the Indonesian Arts & Culture Scholarship program, to learn Tari Gandrung and performed at events like the Banyuwangi Ethno Carnival and Indonesia Channel in Jakarta. Overcoming challenges, including dancing in the rain, she achieved a unique and successful experience.
Joining Sanggar Lang Lang Buana through the Indonesian Arts & Culture Scholarship, Deena learned two dances Tari Gandrung and Tari Kembang Bakung. The dynamic East Java style, influenced by Balinese elements, led to successful performances at the Blue Fire event and Indonesia Channel in Jakarta, fostering lasting friendships and
Tari Kembang Bakung, a traditional dance from Banyuwangi, East Java, is inspired by the ancient Seblang Bakungan ritual. Rooted in the region's history since the 1600s, the ritual involves a mystical dance. As part of the Indonesian Arts & Culture Scholarship, Deena experienced the dance, observed the Seblang Bakungan
Exploring sustainable living in Bali, focusing on family practices and delving into the environmental challenges posed by tourism. Sharing both successful and unsuccessful experiences with waste management solutions and various eco-friendly businesses in Bali adopting sustainable practices.
In 2021, amid the pandemic, Deena virtually explored Indonesian arts with Sanggar Lang Lang Buana. Yearning for an in-person experience, she found serendipity in March 2023 when her friend joined the same program. A spontaneous visit resulted in an irresistible offer to immerse herself in the cultural journey once
A practical guide in obtaining an ITAS (Limited Stay Permit) for an Australian spouse in Bali. The steps to apply for an e-Visa (C317) online, detailing stages, required documents, and the subsequent process of converting it to ITAS upon arrival in Indonesia.
In 2021, during the pandemic, Deena participated in the Indonesian Arts & Culture Scholarship (IACS), delving into traditional arts remotely with Sanggar Lang Lang Buana. Born in Australia with a strong Indonesian connection, she seized the chance to learn dance, music, and art online, crafting head accessories and showcasing