TRANSFORMING SACRED MOVEMENTS: THE IMPACT OF COVID-19 ON INTERNATIONAL TERTIARY DANCE EDUCATION AND RELIGIOUS EXPRESSION

Abstract

This study employs a qualitative descriptive technique, incorporating observation, document analysis, and interviews to explore the implications of COVID-19 on international tertiary dance education, particularly focusing on its impact on the spiritual and religious dimensions of dance as a form of expression. As the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues to affect societies globally, this research delves into how international relations and discourse within dance education can persist amidst physical immobility brought about by the pandemic. We explore the transformative potential of dance during this era of restricted physical interaction, examining online learning, education, and research within the domain of dance. The study also investigates how choreographers have adapted to these constraints, using dance not only as artistic expression but also as a means to maintain and enhance spiritual and communal connections in a time of isolation. The paper presents three case studies reflecting the early experiences of dance educators and scholars who have navigated the shifts in their practice due to the pandemic. Themes such as innovation in teaching methods, motivation, cultural agendas, and the concept of 'slow science' are discussed. Additionally, it examines how the move to online platforms has affected both the physical and spiritual aspects of dance education. The findings suggest that while the COVID-19 pandemic initially posed significant challenges to choreographers in East Java and beyond, it also catalyzed a creative resurgence, enabling them to infuse their work with new meanings and depth. Dance has emerged not just as a method of physical expression but as a vital tool for spiritual resilience and expression, offering new avenues for international engagement and dialogue in the field of dance education. This study aims to shed light on the ongoing evolution of dance practices and their role in fostering an enriched understanding of the interplay between physical movement, spirituality, and global crises.