Dolalak is a typical art from Purworejo Regency. This dance is a relic from the Dutch colonial era. The origin of the word Dolalak is from the notes Do and La because this dance is only accompanied by a two-tone musical instrument using a pair of Kenong lights.
Along with the times and technology, the Dolalak dance is now accompanied by modern music, namely the keyboard. The songs that are played are varied and diverse.
The Dolak dancer is the equivalent of a laughing stock, wearing a black uniform and wearing shorts. This uniform mimics the army serms of objects in ancient times. Over time, generations of female pullers emerged, accompanied by uniform modifications. And now, with the presence of matrarang dancers, one of the towing groups that still has them is the Dolalak dance group from Kaligesing. Dolalak dancers can experience trance, which is a condition where they are not aware because they are so immersed in dance and music.
Their behavior can be weird and funny. The Dolalak dance is currently growing rapidly and has even become the brand image of Purworejo Regency.
Dolalak is increasingly popular among the younger generation. This is not spared from the role of the Purworejo Regional Government which continues to develop and maintain this original art from the Purworejo area. In fact, in every art event at the national level, Dolalak always appears as a unique art. In every art competition at the national level, the Dolalak art always wins.
This is what drives Dolalak to remain sustainable. Dolalak art is always displayed in the Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia, Scout Jamboree from regional to national levels, inter-regional cultural performances, and has even traveled to several countries in Asia and Europe. Therefore, Dolalak perli is patented as an original art from Indonesia in general and as an original art from the Purworejo Regency area in particular. This is intended so that Dolalak is not claimed as the property of individuals, regions, or even other nations.