AIAV Annual Dinner
Sanggar Lestari was delighted to perform for the Australian Indonesian Association of Victoria's Annual Dinner.
The Australian Indonesian Association of Victoria (AIAV) is a non-profit organisation in Victoria which promotes friendship, understanding and good relations between the people of Indonesia and Australia. A mix of both Australians and Indonesians make up this group and share a passion and interest for Indonesia. Many members are fluent or studying Bahasa Indonesia, which is further supported through social activities including 'Malam Ngobrol' and Indonesian Film Nights.
Our founder, Mama Ning has been involved with AIAV in past events and we were so excited to be part of such a wonderful evening.
For this event, Sanggar Lestari performed two Betawi Dances including two of our favourites - Tari Kembang Jakarta and Tari Lenggang Nyai! We adore these dances as they are so vibrant and fun to perform! A lot of the Chinese influence of the Betawi culture is evident through the bright colours, hairpieces and music style used in Betawi Dances.
Other performances included Indonesian Music from 'The Rantau' Band as well as a captivating session from the guest speaker, Jewel Topsfield (Fairfax Media Indonesian Correspondent 2015 and current editor of The Age) Further, a Commemorative Edition of 'How To Cook Indonesian Food' was launched at the dinner. Many copies were sold and we are sure these will be treasured for years to come!
Jess, Mira and Yana performed the two Betawi dances at the event, but as usual, we were supported by a team attending in their Batik prints including Mama Ning, BibiUa, David and Ben! The more the merrier - especially in vibrant Batik!
After enjoying a delicious Indonesian Dinner, the Lestari Team closed the event with a Line-Dance Workshop. Under the direction of Mama Ning (aka Line dance queen) we taught AIAV members and attendees Tari Poco-Poco and 'Ge Mu Fa Mi Re'.
I couldn't think of a better way to close such a wonderful night!
Peace Lestari