The sounds of Okokan wooden cowbells marked the official opening of the 37th Bali Arts Festival at the Ardha Candra open stage at the Bali Art Center on Saturday night.
The sounds of the traditional musical instrument from Tabanan regency that was played by Tourism Minister Arief Yahya marked the start of the much awaited one-month arts festival.
“Bali has a huge potential for the cultural industry. I feel sure that Bali can beat the world in the cultural industry,” Arief said.
Bali Governor Made Mangku Pastika said the festival was an event for Balinese artistes to be appreciated as well as a communication tool for artistes that was the pride of the Balinese.
“This event is strategic not only in preserving traditional Balinese art but also in revitalizing the value of the arts,” he said.
A grand Balinese drama dance, Ayodya Kertanegara, from the famous Hindu epic Ramayana, was the highlight of the opening ceremony.........
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