This class will be led by GSJ 2025 Guest Dance Artist, Ayu Sukmawati. Students will be introduced to the foundational movements of classical Balinese dance, with a focus on Pendet, a beautiful Balinese welcome dance in female style. While historically performed by females, this dance can be learned and performed by anyone, making the class open to all.
Students of all genders are welcomed; students must be at least 12 years old. These classes may sometimes take place outside in the outdoor patio area of the banjar building, depending on the preference of the instructor.
Ayu Sukmawati, S.H., is a celebrated Balinese dancer and choreographer from Ubud, specializing in classic female roles. As the dance director of Semara Ratih, she follows in the footsteps of her renowned mother and aunt, Ni Gusti Ayu Rai and Ni Gusti Ayu Raka Rasmi. Trained by Gunung Sari’s Anak Agung Gede Mandera, she has won top awards for Oleg, Belibis, and Legong Pelayon. Known for her powerful stage presence, she excels in Legong, Oleg, and Teruna Jaya and served as the master teacher for winning Legong dancers at the 2002 Gong Kebyar Festival.
SUNDAYS from 2:30-3:30 PM
Session 1: September 21, 28, October 5
Session 2: October 19, 26, November 2, 9, 16, 23
*No class on October 12 (come to our Open House!)
Students are welcome to invite their friends, family and community for an informal sharing during the final 30 minutes of class on November 19.
All classes are donation based on a sliding scale. No one turned away for lack of funds.
Suggested donation is $20/class. Full series registration and drop-ins welcome.
Please use the Paypal link below to pay. If you need to pay with cash or check you can do so in person at the banjar (studio).
When choosing your sliding scale rate, please keep in mind that GSJ depends on the generosity of its community to support high caliber artists and programming. Thank you!
