Transforming the traditional Joget Sonde dance for the preservation of Malay culture

Abstract

Purpose: to analyze the transformation of the Joget Sonde dance at Sanggar Buih Selari, Pekanbaru, and how Malay cultural values are maintained in the process of adapting a traditional dance into a modern performance form.

Method: this research employs a descriptive qualitative approach, utilizing observation, interviews, and documentation, with data analyzed through the stages of data reduction, presentation, and conclusion.

Findings: the Joget Sonde dance at Sanggar Buih Selari has transformed movement, music, costume, and stage presentation to align with modern aesthetics. The dance movements have become more varied, traditional music is combined with modern instruments, costumes are made more dynamic, and performances are staged on formal platforms. Despite these innovations, Malay cultural values such as politeness, togetherness, beauty, and cultural identity are preserved. This transformation demonstrates creative and sustainable cultural preservation.

Implications: the research indicates that innovations in transforming the Joget Sonde dance enable the creative preservation of Malay culture while remaining relevant to modern society. The findings can serve as a reference for artists and cultural managers in developing strategies to adapt traditional arts so that they remain vibrant, appealing, and educationally valuable.

Originality: this research comprehensively examines the transformation of the Joget Sonde dance while demonstrating the creative and adaptive preservation of Malay cultural values.