Preserving the Dampeng Dance Tradition in Rundeng District, Subulussalam City, Aceh

Abstract

The Dampeng dance of the Singkil people is performed at weddings, circumcisions and guest receptions, but it is performed less often than in the past. An earlier study in Rundeng District described preservation efforts in one village from the viewpoint of village officials; the views of young people and the reasons for declining interest were not examined. This study describes why interest in the Dampeng dance has declined, which cultural values residents attach to it, and which measures and obstacles they identify for its preservation in Rundeng District, Subulussalam City, Aceh. A qualitative descriptive design was used, with interviews of five informants (the mukim, a young man, a woman resident and two community figures), observation and documentation. Informants attributed the decline to outside cultures and modern entertainment, performances regarded as less appealing than before, and the absence of places to learn. The values named were togetherness, mutual cooperation, responsibility, politeness, respect for guests and local identity. Proposed measures were a dance studio led by senior dancers for children, open performances at public events, village-level socialisation and school activities. Obstacles were low interest among youth, declining understanding of customary meaning and limited government support. The measures remain proposals.