Indonesian

Indonesian Cultural Incursion

“Wow, I never realised getting to know our neighbours could be that much fun!”

On Thursday 21 November our Year 7 students were once again treated to an inspiring day of rich cultural experiences as they learned about Indonesia. Our hosts were Aaron and Nita, who have lived for many years in Central Java, Indonesia, and are now based near Bendigo. In the first part of the day the students experienced a variety of rotations which kept them engaged. Aaron taught each class how to play the ‘gamelan’, a centuries-old set of kettle-drums, gongs and traditional percussion instruments that come together to form an enchanting sound. Nita challenged the students to try traditional dancing using elaborate costumes to retell ancient folk stories. Pak Bradbury also taught a session on appreciating the beautiful artwork of Batik, or wax-dye cloth, in which the students created their own small patterns and made badges to wear proudly. One of the other highlights of the day was a turn to ride the ‘becaks’ or pedicabs around the basketball courts.

After immersing themselves in various examples of rich Indonesian culture, the whole cohort of Year 7s were treated to a shadow-puppet show called ‘wayang kulit’. Harking back to the era before screens and devices, Aaron skilfully portrayed an ancient Ramayana story of epic battles and love stories with the clang of brass plates and the dramatic interaction of shadows cast on a white sheet by ornate characters, some good, some evil. The students were mesmerised!

As a final crescendo of the day’s program, all Year 7 students donned highly decorated costumes and took part in yet another folk-story being told. But this time the students themselves were the actors and musicians! Classes took it in turns to put their earlier workshops of dance and music to use by playing out various parts of the epic love story. The whole experience was enthralling and those staff lucky enough to watch the show were not only entertained but later remarked how impressed they were at the quality of the acting and musical performing. Students went home inspired and enriched by such an experience. Thanks again to Aaron, Nita and all the staff who helped put together a great day! Terima kasih!

Daniel Bradbury

​​​​​Indonesian Faculty Leader & Secondary Teacher