The Bedhaya Court Dances of Central Java

The stately bedhaya dances of the Central Javanese courts represent an ancient tradition of the House of Mataram. As they were considered an heirloom of Javanese royalty, the esoteric songs and choreographies accompanied by special gamelan music have almost fallen into oblivion. The present discussion on their form and content provides important information on the development of the Performing Arts in Java. It aims at preserving this beautiful tradition for future generations.