Balinese dance is globally celebrated for its artistic complexity and cultural significance. Within this rich tradition, the role of children is particularly fascinating. A new ethnographic study, “Children Dancing in Bali” by Jonathan McIntosh, delves into the intricate dynamics between children and adults in this art form, revealing surprising insights into child agency and power.
While traditional Balinese dance contexts often position adults as authority figures guiding young learners, McIntosh’s research uncovers a more nuanced reality. Beyond formal instruction, children in Bali actively engage with dance in diverse settings, from informal gatherings to popular music events. In these spaces, they emerge not just as students, but as dynamic artistic agents, shaping their identities and social interactions through movement and performance.
“Children Dancing in Bali” offers a fresh perspective on how Balinese children navigate the complex interplay of practice, performance, and power. Drawing on extensive ethnographic fieldwork, McIntosh illuminates the creative potential of dance as a medium for children to negotiate their place in Balinese society. The book explores how children utilize dance to express themselves, build relationships, and exert influence within their communities.
Jonathan McIntosh, an Associate Professor at the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts, brings his expertise in ethnomusicology and anthropology to this compelling study. His work sheds light on the multifaceted roles children play in shaping and sustaining Balinese dance traditions, making “Children Dancing in Bali” an invaluable resource for those interested in dance, childhood studies, and Southeast Asian culture. This book promises to be a significant contribution to the fields of performance studies, anthropology, and heritage studies, offering a deeper understanding of children’s dynamic engagement with cultural practices.
