Bali is known for its sun-drenched beaches, verdant rice terraces, spiritual retreats, and—perhaps most captivating—its vibrant culture. One of the most iconic symbols of Balinese heritage is Balinese dance: a mesmerizing art form that combines intricate movements, expressive facial gestures, vivid costumes, and deep religious significance.
Whether you’re a curious traveler, a performing arts enthusiast, or someone with a deep love for Indonesian culture, taking a Balinese dance class is a unique and enriching experience. But where should you go to learn it? This guide covers the best places to take Balinese dance classes, what to expect, how to prepare, and why this experience could be transformative.
🕊️ The Soul of Bali: A Brief History of Balinese Dance
Balinese dance isn’t just about performance—it’s a sacred ritual, a narrative medium, and an offering to the gods. Originating centuries ago, it blends Hindu epics, ancestral worship, and local mythologies. Many dances are tied to temple ceremonies and religious festivals, such as Galungan or Odalan.
There are many types of Balinese dance, including:
- Legong: Delicate, refined, traditionally performed by young girls.
- Barong: A mythological story involving good and evil forces.
- Kecak: A dramatic dance with a chanting male chorus.
- Pendet: A welcoming dance originally performed in temples.
- Topeng: A masked dance that tells historical or comedic stories.
Understanding these helps deepen your appreciation when you begin your lessons.
📍 Where to Take a Balinese Dance Class in Bali
Below are some of the most recommended places across Bali to take authentic and enriching dance lessons:
1. 🎭 ARMA (Agung Rai Museum of Art), Ubud
Why it stands out:
This iconic cultural center offers structured dance classes in a serene setting surrounded by art galleries and lush gardens. ARMA doesn’t just teach dance—it immerses students in the philosophy and spirituality behind it.
What you’ll get:
- Classes for beginners to advanced.
- Instruction by professional dancers trained in classical Balinese styles.
- Opportunities to watch live performances.
Perfect for: Art lovers and cultural travelers.
2. Bali Culture Center, Denpasar
Why it stands out:
Located in the heart of Denpasar, this center provides an academic approach to dance instruction, including theory and history. It’s ideal if you want a comprehensive foundation.
What you’ll get:
- Group or private lessons.
- Access to traditional costumes for rehearsal.
- English-speaking instructors with deep cultural insight.
Perfect for: Long-term learners or students doing cultural research.
3. Sanggar Tari Balerung, Peliatan
Why it stands out:
This village near Ubud has a legacy of Legong dance, and this studio is run by a family of dancers with royal ties. The immersive vibe of a traditional village setting adds authenticity.
What you’ll get:
- Village-style, hands-on training.
- Warm community engagement.
- Affordable pricing for daily or weekly classes.
Perfect for: Cultural purists and village experience seekers.
4. Ubud Palace (Puri Saren Agung)
Why it stands out:
Though primarily a performance venue, Ubud Palace offers private classes by appointment with their performers. Imagine learning where kings once watched sacred dances!
What you’ll get:
- Access to elite-level performers.
- One-on-one coaching.
- Spectacular atmosphere.
Perfect for: Luxury travelers and serious dance students.
5. Gita Yoga & Art Studio, Canggu
Why it stands out:
Canggu may be known for surfing and digital nomads, but this studio bridges yoga, wellness, and traditional Balinese arts—including dance!
What you’ll get:
- Integration of movement and mindfulness.
- Multilingual staff.
- Classes tailored to Western learners.
Perfect for: Wellness travelers and modern spiritual seekers.
6. Homestays Offering Dance Packages
Many family-run guesthouses in Bali include cultural immersion programs, which feature dance lessons alongside cooking classes, temple visits, and gamelan music.
Recommended areas:
- Sidemen (East Bali)
- Mas Village (Ubud)
- Munduk (North Bali)
Perfect for: Travelers seeking local immersion and sustainable tourism.
🧣 What to Expect in Your First Class
Taking your first Balinese dance class can be both exhilarating and humbling. Here’s what usually happens:
👣 Warm-up & Grounding
- Exercises to loosen hips, knees, wrists, and shoulders.
- Grounding to connect with earth energy—essential in Balinese dance.
🙆♀️ Basic Postures & Gestures
- Learn the “agêm” posture (a foundational stance).
- Eye movements (a key expressive tool in Balinese dance).
- Hand mudras (symbolic hand gestures).
🎶 Movement to Gamelan
- Dances are synced with the gamelan orchestra. Even during classes, simple recordings are used.
- You’ll learn how to “listen with your body.”
😄 Facial Expression Practice
- Facial expressions are critical. You’ll be coached to smile, widen your eyes, or express fear or divinity.
👗 What to Wear
While most studios provide basic sarongs or sashes, you’re encouraged to bring or wear:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing.
- A sarong or long scarf for your waist.
- Bare feet (some studios may request socks).
Advanced students might rent or buy traditional costumes for recitals.
🧘♂️ Cultural Etiquette and Mindset
Balinese dance is sacred. Be respectful, open, and humble.
- Bow to the shrine or altar if present in the studio.
- Avoid stepping over sacred offerings.
- Smile often—Balinese culture sees it as a sign of good intentions.
🎓 Benefits of Learning Balinese Dance
Learning Balinese dance isn’t just about movement—it impacts your mind, body, and spirit.
🌿 Physical Health
- Improves flexibility, posture, coordination, and balance.
- A great low-impact cardio workout.
🧠 Mental Focus
- Enhances memory, since routines require intricate choreography.
- Helps develop spatial awareness and emotional intelligence.
🪷 Spiritual Growth
- Deepens connection with Balinese culture and rituals.
- Encourages mindfulness and presence.
🌍 Cultural Understanding
- Offers authentic insight into Balinese worldview.
- Builds bridges between tourists and locals.
📅 Recommended Timelines
Short Stay (1–3 days)
Take a drop-in class or short workshop at places like ARMA or Ubud Palace.
Mid Stay (1–2 weeks)
Join daily lessons at a local sanggar (studio). Participate in a performance or showcase.
Long Stay (1–3 months)
Enroll in a cultural program or homestay. Some studios offer certification for regular attendance.
📸 Capture the Memory
Most classes allow photos after the session. Some even offer:
- Costume dress-up and photo shoots.
- Short video recordings of your dance.
Be sure to ask for permission before filming any performances or rehearsals.
🛍️ Where to Buy Balinese Dance Accessories
Want to take home more than memories? Check out:
- Pasar Sukawati: Famous for costumes and fabrics.
- Ubud Market: Great for fans, scarves, and traditional jewelry.
- Toko Adi in Denpasar: A dancer’s dream for professional gear.
🛫 Final Thoughts: Dance as a Bridge Between Worlds
Taking a Balinese dance class isn’t just another holiday activity—it’s a way to connect. You step into a story told for centuries, and you carry its rhythm long after your trip ends. Whether you perform under the stars or just for your reflection, the grace, discipline, and joy of Balinese dance stay with you.
So, are you ready to let your hands tell a story, your eyes express the divine, and your body flow like a sacred offering?
