Notes from the Field: Return of the Rhino Dance to Way Kambas A collaborative agreement between Way Kambas village and the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary
Submitted by Robin W. Radcliffe, DVM, DACZM Rhino Conservation Medicine Program, IRF, FRWC, CUCVM

Sponsored by the International Rhino Foundation - Rhino Conservation Medicine Program and the Sumatran Rhino Sanctuary

No longer are young children able to partake in centuries-old dance celebrations or learn traditional dance from their elders. As with many things in our modern world, the colorful traditions of Sumatra and Java are disappearing. If we can bring back dance, stories and song – including the rhino as part of the celebrations – we hope to make significant progress in raising awareness for the rhino, the rainforest and their role in a sustainable future.

Goal: Improve awareness of the rhinoceros, tiger and other creatures of the rainforest through dance rituals. Dances will return first in Way Kambas and then extend to other regions of Sumatra such as Bukit Barisan Selatan, Ujong Kulon and Gunung-Leuser regions as staff time allows.

Methodology: Purchase dance costumes and musical instruments (i.e. tiger dance costume, gongs, drums, flutes, sound instruments, etc.) for use by village dancers in local celebrations. All dance materials would be owned by and maintained by the SRS and stored in the new Visitor Center. Local village members would be encouraged to use the materials as part of the collaborative conservation and cultural awareness program incorporating the Way Kambas rhino dance.

Objectives:

1) Enhance awareness for role of the rainforest and its life forms as an integral part of sustainable living and local culture.
2) Increase visibility of SRS and staff in village activities and caring for the rhino and the rainforest.