SOLE OHA DANCE AS A CULTURAL COMMUNICATION MEDIA: AN ETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY OF THE EAST FLORES COMMUNITY

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the Sole Oha Dance as a traditional communication media in the Lamaholot ethnic community in East Flores, East Nusa Tenggara. However, globalization and popular culture spread through social media have reduced young people's interest in local regional dances. Young people who were previously active and involved in the traditional sole oha dance event are now more interested in foreign cultures that they consume digitally. This phenomenon shows the transformation of shifting values ​​and the potential for erosion of local cultural wealth, including the sole oha dance. Therefore, this study makes an important contribution to the preservation of unique and valuable local culture. This research method uses an ethnographic approach to explore the social meaning in the lyrics and dance movements, as well as its role as a traditional communication medium. This study found that the Soleh Oha Dance contains values ​​of togetherness, respect for customs, and gratitude which are manifested through traditional lyrics, dance movements, and its implementation involving all members of society. This dance is also used in various events, such as traditional ceremonies, religious celebrations, and thanksgiving activities, so that it becomes an important means of strengthening the unity and cultural identity of the community. The uniqueness of this study lies in its focus on aspects of cultural communication that are rarely explored in previous studies, especially the role of the Soleh Oha Dance as a means of conveying moral and religious messages that are relevant to the social life of the community. The results of this study are expected to be a reference for the government and local communities in designing cultural preservation programs and promoting the Soleh Oha Dance as a cultural tourism attraction in NTT. Thus, this study closes the research gap regarding the documentation and analysis of cultural values ​​in Lamaholot traditional art.