For leisure, the people of Perlis enjoy a variety of activities ranging
from traditional dances to traditional games and pastimes handed down
through generations. "Tarian Canggung" and "Tarian Ayam Didik" are
examples of dances and equally irresistible feet stomping may still be
seen today.
Tarian Canggung, a traditional dance,
was brought from early historical times, and performed by the people as
a form of celebration after harvest time. In fact, it is the people's
dance where singing and exchanges of words in stanzas (called 'berbalas
pantun') are freely and jestingly called for to the accompaniment of
music.
Tarian Terinai, is yet another dance
and musical presentation, performed specifically during a royal
ceremony. The musical accompaniment is usually provided by the beating
of Gendang Terinai (drums), normally performed by five musicians.
Awang Batil is akin to a
'story-teller' who tells of the glory and richness of life of the people
of olden times. In a sense, Awang Batil is not much different from the
minstrels of old England. Awang Batil is an expert with words, albeit
colloquial, and as he proceeds with his story he beats a small drum and
plays a tune on his flute as and when the story line demands. Such a
presentation was normal during a big feast and during one form of
festivity or another in times gone by.
Seni Silat is the traditional Malay
art of self-defense. It has become an integral part of an official
function as it is also performed by individuals, singly or as a team, as
part of the festivities associated with the function. Silat takes on
various forms, depending on the origin, body thrusts and artistic
representations.
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