(8/11/2006)
The Grup Gedebong Goyang (the Swaying Banana Sisters) was formed in 2003 as a response to the mood of the Balinese post-Bali bombing by four Western women living in Ubud who, arguably, had too much time on their hands.
Bali's Answer to an USO Show?Armed with unequal amounts of enthusiasm and talent,
"the girls" decided to "entertain the locals" by performing a repertoire of songs and comedy in Balinese and Indonesian. Forming an alliance with the
Satya Hati - the Bali Hati Band with a very strong anti-drug message, the
Swinging Banana Sisters specialize in outlandish renderings of
Dangdut, Bali Pop and
Bali Rock Alternative music.
Parental Discretion Advised?The four "stars" of the
Swinging Banana Sisters are Rucunia Ballinger, Kerry Pendergrast, Suzan Kohlik and Antonella Disantis. All women of a
"certain age," the group's wild gyrations and contortions on stage are regularly monitored on the Island's seismic disturbance systems; giving corset makers both pause and concern.
After a two-year hiatus, organizers promise the Wednesday, August 16th concert will include the Balinese Reggae song
"Melalung" (Naked), a musical commentary on the recently proposed Anti-Pornography Law and
"Megegenjekan," a Balinese Pop song about silliness.
As a special bonus, a special edition of the
TV Biyu Tasak News (Overripe Banana News) together with a gala premiere of the latest new "life-style" foods available at the Ubud market will be presented.
In the words of the group's Diva, Rucina Ballinger, "Be there or be a banana,
lassi!"The
Swinging Banana Sisters appearance forms part of the closing ceremonies of the Ubud Arts Festival.
Place: Ubud Soccer Field
Date: Wednesday, August 16, 2006
Time: 7:00 p.m.
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