First published in 1987. This book began in Bali during 1970–72, during the author’s Ph.D. research on the shadow theatre for the School of Oriental and African Studies in London. However, two subsequent trips to Bali in 1980 and 1984, when I studied other forms of dance-drama and ritual, greatly contributed to the work. The shadow theatre in Bali is described and its place in the society and culture explored. It is so called, as during the night performance puppets cast vibrant shadows against a white cotton screen which is illuminated by a flickering coconut-oil lamp.

Discover the richness and beauty of Bali's many performing art forms. This book is a lavishly illustrated introduction to the most popular forms of traditional performing arts in Bali--among the most intricate and spectacular musical and theatrical performances found anywhere. Ideal reading for visitors to the island, as well as anyone interested in Balinese culture, this book presents the history and form of each performance--with 250 watercolor illustrations and full-color photos to aid in identification. Introductory sections discuss how the performing arts are learned in Bali and the basic religious and cultural tenets expressed through the arts. Subsequent chapters describe each form, including Gamelan Gong Keybar, Gambuh, Legong Keraton, Baris, Wayang Kulit and many more! Chapters include: What is Gamelan? Women in Non-Traditional Roles The Stories in Balinese Theatre Sacred and Ceremonial Dances And many more! Expert authors I Wayan Dibya and Rucina Ballinger discuss how the performing arts in Bali are passed from one generation to the next and the traditional values these performances convey, as well as their place within religious celebrations and how and when the performances are staged. In addition to including a bibliography and discography, the book is enhanced with over 200 stunning photographs and specially-commissioned watercolor illustrations from artist Barbara Anello.

Despite the world-wide association of music and dance with religion, this is the first full-length study of the subject from a global perspective. The work consists of 3,816 references divided among 37 chapters. It covers tribal, regional, and global religions and such subjects as shamanism, liturgical dance, healing, and the relationship of music, mathematics, and mysticism. The referenced materials display such diverse approaches as analysis of music and dance, description of context, direct experience, observation, and speculation. The references address topics from such disciplines as sociology, anthropology, history, linguistics, musicology, ethnomusicology, theology, medicine, semiotics, and computer technology. Chapter 1 consists of general references to religious music and dance. The remaining 36 chapters are organized according to major geographical areas. Most chapters begin with general reference works and bibliographies, then continue with topics specific to the region or religion. This book will be of use to anyone with an interest in music, dance, religion, or culture.

First published in 1987. Routledge is an imprint of Taylor & Francis, an informa company.

"Exciting and fascinating, this reference work succeeds in its goal of bringing "joy as well as enlightenment" about all forms of dance in all countries of the world. An extremely useful synoptic outline of contents" with nine sections (including "Ritual and Religion" and "Popular Entertainment") enables the user to explore dance in its cultural and social aspects, while topical essays complement the 2,000-plus entries. Heavily illustrated with black-and-white photographs, the encyclopedia captures the fluid movement of dance; with its depth and scope, this outstanding work has carved a well-deserved niche."--"Outstanding Reference Sources: the 1999 Selection of New Titles," American Libraries, May 1999. Comp. by the Reference Sources Committee, RUSA, ALA.

"Jammed-to-its-endpapers with gorgeous white, gray, gold and silver pages; hundreds of full-color, sepia-toned, black-and-white and black-on-silver photographs, and pull-outs showing detailed drawings." -- "San Francisco Chronicle A volcanic island just off the coast of Java (between the Java Sea and the Indian ocean), Bali is one of the world's most exotic and enchanting destinations. With its volcanic peaks, rice-field terraces, and some of the world's most stunning beaches, Bali's natural wonders and unique island culture have made this a destination for sun-worshippers and adventure-seekers (not to mention the rich and famous) for generations. Witness the glorious sunsets from the pagoda temple of Tanah Lot, watch a traditional dance, and explore the sacred "Goa Gajah or "Elephant Cave" temple. Discover Balinese culture in the island's family compounds, traditional pavilions and palaces, and tour exotic temples such as Pura Luhur Uluwatu, situated on a dramatic limestone escarpment 825-feet above the Indian Ocean. Learn about Bali's customs and beliefs as well as its traditional medicine and rites of passage. A variety of iteneraries, including special tours for four- or ten-day stays, will show you the best of the island, from the bustle of Denpasar in the south to the raw beauty of the West Bali National Park to Gitgit waterfall in the north to the floating place and royal bathing pools in the east.