Wahyuningsih Millane

WHY DO YOU LIKE INDONESIAN DANCING?

I love Indonesian dancing because it is an important part of Indonesian culture which allows me to express myself. I love that dance connects people and I love how it makes me feel happy and young at heart. It means everything to me! I am so proud. My culture is my pride.

WHY ARE YOU PASSIONATE ABOUT INDONESIA?

I learnt dancing from a young age from home and formally attended 'Sekolah Serimpi' in Blitar (East Java) to learn Javanese dances. When we moved to Sulawesi in my High school years I joined with 'IKS' (Institute Kesenian Sulawesi), which is an Arts Institute. Here I perfected my technique in South Sulawesi dances. Following that, I moved to Jakarta to further my studies and joined a dance group there, learning dances from EAST to the WEST of Indonesia. I also spent my childhood singing in Indonesian Bands in different dialects from around Indonesia and have always felt passionate about performing and Indonesian Culture. When I moved to Australia, I wanted to continue my passion and love of Indonesian dance. That is why I formed Sanggar Lestari 30 years ago. My first performance in Australia was Tari Angin Mamiri at Crown Melbourne for a World Vision Fundraising event.

MY FAVOURITE STYLE OF INDONESIAN DANCE

It's so hard to choose just one! But if I really have to, it is classical Javanese dancing. My mother was Javanese and at home we mainly spoke Javanese, Ambonese and Sulawesi dialect. Despite this, my Mother's influence was very strong and I have always admired the graceful, authentic movements accompanied by Gamelan.

I feel so proud of the efforts of all of my dancers in Australia who continue to be passionate about Indonesia's culture. My group are so wonderful and feel like my own children. It is so important for us to share our beautiful culture with our neighbours in Australia and ensure that we don't lose our roots.

Peace Lestari!