Preparation:
1. Choose a suitable location: Sarung banggi is traditionally performed in an open space like a field or a stage. Make sure the area is clear and provides enough room for the dance movements.
2. Wear appropriate clothing: The dancers should wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows for fluid movement. Traditional Malay costumes, such as the baju kurung or kebaya, are often worn during sarung banggi performances.
3. Music: Sarung banggi is typically accompanied by traditional Malay music played using instruments like the kompang (hand-held Malay drums), gong, and serunai (Malay oboe). The music sets the tempo and rhythm for the dance.
Basic Movements:
1. The Walk (Langkah Banggi):
- The dance starts with the dancers walking in a synchronized manner, imitating the slow and steady steps of a flying fox. The feet should be lifted high and placed gently on the ground, alternating between the right and left feet.
2. The Flapping (Kepak Kepak):
- As the dance progresses, the dancers begin to flap their arms, resembling the flapping wings of a flying fox. The arm movements should be exaggerated, with elbows bent and hands open.
3. The Gliding (Terbang Layang):
- In the gliding movement, the dancers extend their arms and slightly tilt their bodies to the side, mimicking the gliding motion of a flying fox. The arms should move gracefully in a wave-like motion.
4. The Head Tilt (Geleng Kepala):
- While gliding, the dancers tilt their heads from side to side, imitating the head movements of flying foxes. This adds an element of charm and playfulness to the dance.
5. The Quick Flaps (Kepak Pantas):
- The dance intensifies as the dancers accelerate the flapping of their arms, conveying a sense of urgency and excitement. The arm movements become faster, resembling the rapid flight of flying foxes.
6. The Final Glide (Terbang Layang Akhir):
- The dance reaches its climax with the final glide. The dancers extend their arms wide, tilt their bodies, and take a graceful bow, symbolizing the graceful landing of a flying fox.
Advance Movements (Optional):
1. The Leap (Loncatan):
- Advanced dancers may incorporate leaps or jumps into the dance, adding an acrobatic element. These leaps imitate the sudden bursts of flight displayed by flying foxes when startled or threatened.
2. The Drop (Jatuh):
- The drop involves the dancers suddenly dropping to the ground, representing the flying foxes' ability to quickly descend and land. This movement requires flexibility and coordination.
3. The Circle Formation:
- In larger performances, the dancers may form circles, resembling a flock of flying foxes. The circles expand and contract, creating a dynamic visual effect.
Performance:
1. Practice:
- Thorough practice is essential to master the intricate movements and coordination of sarung banggi. Dancers should rehearse regularly to achieve flawless execution.
2. Expression:
- Sarung banggi isn't just about the steps; it also requires dancers to express the playful and enigmatic nature of flying foxes. Facial expressions and body language should convey the animal's characteristics.
3. Group Synchrony:
- When performed as a group, sarung banggi should showcase synchronized movements. The dancers' actions should be precise and cohesive to create a visually captivating spectacle.
Sarung banggi is a remarkable dance that combines cultural heritage, storytelling, and artistic interpretation. It celebrates the beauty of nature's creatures while showcasing the grace, agility, and creativity of the dancers.