Written on June 26, 2012 by CB Driver in Asia, Cultures, Photography 
It’s not every day that I attend a kindergarten party/celebration–especially in a village in Sumatra! So I shot many photos (and some video), which I’m sharing so that you can get a sense of what it was like to be there…
Payakumbuh kindergarten dancer
The Invitation
You may be wondering…how did I end up there?
Well, Eti, the friend/English teacher I was staying with in Tiakar Guguak (a village in Payakumbuh, Western Sumatra), said that we were both invited (people knew that I was her guest and that I’m a teacher and thus, extended the invitation) and so, of course I went. I had a feeling it would be a fun and interesting way to see and experience the culture from another perspective.
We showed up a little late and were immediately seated close to the front, where the view was best—and handed little boxes with bananas (fried and non-fried). And small plastic cups of water and straws (very common here.) The show had already begun and the next part of it—the singing—was about to happen.
Singing
The kindergarten girls joined together on stage and sang, and then one belted out a tune on her own.
Kindergarten girls ready to sing
Dancing
There was also dancing, which was quite impressive for kids so young. The dances were choreographed and the costumes looked heavy for the warm, sticky weather. I give the kids credit for the hard work they did!
Video of Kindergarten Dancers
Most of the photos I have are of the girls, but I do recall the boys (in white outfits) being involved at some point… The girls, however, ran the show for the most part. And the teachers sat in the audience, watching proudly…
Proud Payakumbuh teachers (some from other schools) enjoying the show
Lunch
Later, people removed their shoes, went inside the school and sat and ate, sitting on the floor (which is quite common.)
Shoes are removed before entering all homes in West Sumatra and sometimes at schools…
Lunch…
I was invited to eat, but wasn’t hungry (had a huge breakfast) and declined. One of the women in charge was not pleased and gave me a little slap on the arm that stung a little. I was shocked, but then learned later that it’s common and is meant lightheartedly only.
After that, I ended up eating a tiny bit (I also learned to eat less at each meal just in case I found myself in a similar situation)… 
The Village Chief
Anyway, the show was adorable and the party was fun. Many of the people of the village were there—including the chief—and in the end, it was a cool experience. I’m glad I went.
Chief of Tiakar Guguak
I think these were teachers, but I’m not sure. They may have been singing coaches…hmmm.
Your Thoughts/Experiences?
Have you ever attended a traditional school celebration in another country? If so, where…and what was it like? If not, would you like to?
Also, what do you think of this party? I personally think the kids worked hard to put on a great show!
Payakumbuh boys at kindergarten celebration
Can’t Get Enough?
Want to read more about my experiences staying in Tiakar Guguak, Payakumbuh? Then check out these posts:
Teaching: The Unexpected Gifts
Village in Sumatra: Photo of the Day
Newlyweds in Sumatra: Photo of the Day
6 Offbeat Experiences I’ve Had in Sumatra
Saying Goodbye–and Why It’s So Hard This Time
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