Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Caci Dance is a game of agility between two men in Manggarai, Flores, East Nusa Tenggara
(NTT). They are whipping and warding opposing lashes. This dance originated from
Manggarai community tradition where men fight each other one on one to test their courage
and dexterity in the fight. And then it developed into an art.
The name “Caci” comes from the word “ca” meaning “one” and “ci” meaning “test”. So, this
dance can be interpreted as a one-on-one agility test. Caci Dance from Manggarai, NTT
symbol of strength looks so heroic and beautiful because it is a combination of Lomes
(beauty gestures and clothing worn), Bokak (the beauty of vocal art while singing). And it is
also combination of Lime (agility in whipping or fending off the beating of the opponent).
Caci Dance is usually performed between two groups from two different villages. In addition,
the dance is usually performed in Penti (thanksgiving after the harvest) ceremony, Pesso Beo
(kampung kampong), welcome newlyweds, important guests, and in other merry ceremonies.
The Caci player wore a special costume and symbolized Manggarai culture.
Ronald Adipati,
Jl. Gajah Mada
Ruteng-Flores
July 28, 2019
Sincerely,
Ronald Adipati