Ever wonder about those bug-eyed expressions you see during Pacific Rim dances?
There's a name for it, and it's a legit form of expression that's part of the Purnama Sari Balinese Dance Co.'s show, which offers a glimpse back in time to the ancient traditions of dances created and performed as offerings to the deities.
The colorful costumes, masks and expressive movement of the traditional and sacred dances of "The Island of the Gods" can be enjoyed this Friday in St. Pete at the Studio@620.
The Purnama dance company's January performance in Sarasota brought a standing room only crowd that was spellbound by the magic of Balinese classical and ritual dances.
The performances are made even more distinctive by out-there traditions, including the Balinese's signature eye movement called Seledet and dazzling costumes glittered in regal colors.
Drawing from its extensive repertoire, Purnama Sari will introduce the audience at The Studio@620 to court and ritual dances that express stories from Balinese myth and Hindu epics. Some are ancient mask dances that represent archetypes.
For the Balinese, dance is a medium for traveling between "Sekala" (the world of form) and "Niskala" (the world of spirits).
The founders of Purnama Sari ("essence of full moon") studied traditional Balinese dance with internationally acclaimed masters from Ubud, the arts capital of Bali. \
Fri., May 6, 7:30 p.m., Studio@620, 620 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg, $15 and $20, 941-320-9666. studio620.org, PurnamaSariBali.com.
This article appears in Apr 28 – May 4, 2011.
