As part of the 2013 Asian Mass celebration, KKIH performed “Saman Dance” during the cultural show following the Mass. Saman Dance is a traditional dance from Aceh, Sumatra, Indonesia. Its uniqueness lies in the remarkable cohesiveness of the movement. This dance was played by the majority of KKIH youth and also with our beloved parents. Moms and dads took part in dancing as well as singing. We as dancers, move in unison along with our parents’ harmonious song. Our trainer, Stannia, patiently taught us movements in an orderly step-by-step process. This dance allows us to move our body to be driven as one that continues to dance with a compact, following dynamic songs. With its rhythmic flow that goes from a slow to a faster phase, Saman Dance manage to captivate the art of dance to the audience.

 

KKIH Saman Dance performed at Asian Mass 2013
KKIH Saman Dance performed at Asian Mass 2013

The dancers clap their hands, chest, and thigh, bending and swaying their heads to the rhythm. Each of us took part in switching movement from left to right to the rising beats. With the help of parent’s voice, our dance became truly harmonious. We could never be thankful enough for all the parents and children that took part in this activity. We want to thank all the parents for sacrificing their busy schedule, for driving us to and from the practice places and for providing us luscious foods. Thanks also to the Indonesian Consulate General (KJRI) who kindly allowed us to borrow the festive and colorful dresses for the dancers. Without all these hard works, we would never have made it to this far.

In my opinion, this activity has brought us together as a family. This event has become something beautiful and valuable than any other experience life could offer us; something that make our time here as a KKIH family beyond worthwhile. I find myself completely and implicitly captivated with the KKIH family, from knowing nothing to learning something as interesting as the Saman Dance. Thanks to everyone for giving their support and time to come up with such a coruscating idea. It’s as beautiful to me as the very symphonies that roll off your radiant mind.