Melissa Yoebaidi

WHY DO YOU LIKE INDONESIAN DANCING?

I performed my first dance around 20 years ago with a group of my friends, that’s what kick started my love for Indonesian dancing.

What I also like about Indonesian dancing is that every dance tells a unique story. I love that we perform dances from many parts of Indonesia - the movements and costumes are spectacular!

WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT INDONESIA?

I was born and raised in Australia by Indonesian parents from Surakarta/Solo, Central Java. They have always spoken to me in Indonesian and Javanese so as to not forget my roots and so that I’m able to communicate with my family. This has made me passionate about many aspects of my Indonesian cultural heritage.

I really fell in love with Indonesia when I was in my teens, I visited a place that made Batik and learned the process. I respected their work so much more from that moment!

This is only one part of what makes Indonesia so beautiful. Every province has their own unique beauty in culture and tradition that I have yet to discover.

MY FAVOURITE STYLE OF INDONESIAN DANCE

I don’t have a favourite Indonesian dance style, I love them all!

HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A PART OF SANGGAR LESTARI

I’ve been a part of Sanggar Lestari from around 2008! I’m so glad I am a part of a group that have the most supportive, strong and amazingly gifted people I know.