Enviro News Asia, Washington, D.C. — The rhythm of clapping hands and synchronized movements of Saman dancers filled the Dr. Bird Room at the Sandy Spring Museum in Maryland during the Spotlight Indonesian Dance Workshop, organized by Spotlight Academy USA with the support of the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia (KBRI) in Washington, D.C.
Held on a Sunday afternoon, the event featured a range of traditional Indonesian dances, including Pendet from Bali, Enggang Gading from East Kalimantan, and Saman from Aceh. In addition to performances, the workshop offered interactive sessions where visitors were invited to try characteristic Indonesian dance movements—such as the expressive Balinese eye gestures, the synchronized hand coordination of Saman, and the feathered hand ornaments inspired by the Dayak Enggang dance.
The Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to the United States, Indroyono Soesilo, attended the event with his wife, Mrs. Nining Soesilo, and expressed his appreciation and support for the initiative led by the Indonesian diaspora community.
“These dancers are our cultural ambassadors. Through dance, they not only showcase the beauty of movement but also carry forward Indonesia’s cultural heritage for future generations,” said Ambassador Indroyono Soesilo in his remarks.
Ambassador Indroyono also noted that on November 24, 2011, UNESCO officially recognized the Saman Dance from Aceh as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.
“We should be proud, and I hope that many more of Indonesia’s cultural traditions will follow in being recognized by UNESCO, so that the world may continue to appreciate the richness of our nation’s heritage,” he added.
The atmosphere throughout the event was warm and spirited. Participants of all ages were eager to join in, enthusiastically learning the Saman movements under the guidance of Spotlight Academy USA instructors. Laughter and applause filled the room as participants successfully synchronized their fast-paced motions.
Many attendees shared their admiration for the grace and meaning behind Indonesian dances and hoped that similar programs would continue in the future.
Spotlight Academy USA is a dance community founded by members of the Indonesian diaspora in the DMV area (District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia) with the mission to introduce the diversity of Indonesian traditional dances to the American public.
Through events like this, the Embassy of Indonesia in Washington, D.C. continues to promote the preservation and appreciation of Indonesian culture in the United States. The participants’ enthusiasm demonstrated how Indonesia’s cultural arts continue to inspire and strengthen friendship across nations. (*)
