ARTS AND CULTURE INFORMATION GATEWAY
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Introduction and history
The Gobek Dance is inspired by the traditional practice of elders using a gobek (mortar and pestle) to crush betel leaves and areca nuts. The beauty of this dance lies in its melody and the graceful movements of male and female dancers, who incorporate the gobek as a central prop in the performance. The origins of the Gobek Dance are linked to the era of the Kedah Sultanate, where it was performed during royal ceremonies, particularly for celebrations and official events. This dance is renowned for its energetic and dynamic movements, reflecting the spirit of collaboration and teamwork in traditional community life.
The Gobek Dance serves not only as entertainment but also as a medium for cultural education. The musical accompaniment, which includes instruments such as rebana (frame drum), flute, and the gobek, creates a lively atmosphere, while the costumes adorned with traditional embroidery showcase the beauty of Malay textile art.
The Gobek Dance, a traditional art form rich in cultural values in the state of Kedah, emphasizes the significance of costumes and accessories in enhancing the performance. The costumes typically consist of brightly colored baju kurung moden or kebaya, paired with songket or batik fabric featuring fine embroidery. The songket fabric used not only highlights the beauty of Malay weaving art but also holds deep symbolic value, representing the luxury and modesty of Malay culture.
Accessories include shawls or silk scarves neatly tied, as well as jewelry such as rings, bracelets, and earrings often crafted from silver or gold. These elements not only enhance the appearance of the dancers but also reflect their social status and position within the community.
The Gobek Dance, originating from Kedah, is a traditional Malay dance known for its lively rhythms and energetic body movements. The use of props and materials plays a vital role in delivering meaningful artistic expression. Key props include traditional musical instruments such as drums (gendang), rebana, and the flute (serunai), which provide the rhythm and melody that accompany the dance. The gendang, for instance, is played with quick beats to create the driving rhythm for the dancers, while the rebana adds a background sound that strengthens the performance.
Other materials, such as shawls and traditional Malay attire including baju kurung, kebaya, and sarong, are used by dancers to complete their costumes, adding elegance to their movements. Beyond their functional use, these props and costumes serve as cultural symbols, connecting the modern generation with traditional heritage and preserving the values and identity of Kedah's culture.
The performance of the Gobek Dance requires agility and balance, where dancers must follow the musical rhythm precisely while maintaining the elegance of their movements. The dance also involves interaction among the performers, with some pairs of dancers performing together or moving in groups, adding an element of beauty to the presentation.
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Reference Source
Bahan Bacaan
Utara Semenanjung Malaysia: Esei-Esei Warisan (Penerbit USM). (2012). Malaysia: Penerbit USM.
Location
State JKKN Contact Information
Encik Mohammad Salleh bin Mahmud
Cultural Officer
Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara, Kedah
Kompleks JKKN Kedah
Lot PTD 400, Pumpong
05250 Alor Setar
KEDAH DARUL AMAN
011-10899646
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