Tari Longgo Mayuru dalam Konteks Sejarah dan Kehidupan Sosial Masyarakat Molingkapoto

Abstract

This study was motivated by the existence of Longgo Mayuru Dance as a traditional art form of Gorontalo that still maintains its socio-cultural functions and relatively authentic movement structure amid cultural dynamics. This dance not only serves as an aesthetic expression but also as a cultural text that represents the history, customary system, and social identity of the Molingkapoto community. The purpose of this study is to analyse the movement structure of the Longgo Mayuru dance in relation to the historical context and social life of the Molingkapoto community. The study uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive-interpretative design. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews with dance performers and traditional leaders, as well as visual and written documentation. Data analysis was carried out by describing the dance movement structure at the level of motifs, phrases, and movement sentences, then interpreted through structural and sociocultural approaches. The results of the study show that the Longgo Mayuru Dance has its roots in traditional martial arts, which underwent historical transformation into a symbolic escort dance. It has a sacred socio-customary function and is composed of a systematic and symbolically meaningful movement structure. The implications of this research emphasise the importance of preserving the Longgo Mayuru dance, not only in terms of its movements, but also in terms of the socio-cultural context and historical values that underpin it as part of the cultural heritage of the Molingkapoto community.