SYMBOLIC MEANINGS OF MOVEMENTS IN THE BORDIR ICIK DANCE OF KUDUS REGENCY

Abstract

Bordir Icik Dance is a dance work that takes embroidery activities as the source of its creative ideas and relates them to the life of the people of Kudus Regency. This study aims to describe the movement forms of Bordir Icik Dance and analyze the symbolic meanings contained in them. The study uses a qualitative descriptive approach, with the forms and meanings of the dance movements as the object of study. Data were obtained through observations of movement forms and sequences, semi-structured interviews with the choreographer and dancers, and documentation in the form of photographs, videos, and notes related to the creative process and performances. Data validity was examined through source and technique triangulation, while analysis was conducted interactively through data condensation, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings show that the movements of Bordir Icik Dance are characterized by agility, firmness, coordination, and aesthetic quality. Several movement motifs originate from activities such as measuring or preparing fabric, piercing fabric, embroidering, and illustrating the marketing process. The symbolic meanings of the movements go beyond imitating work activities and develop into representations of perseverance, precision, patience, discipline, hard work, cooperation, and mutual assistance.