Nonong and Basio, both aged 47, are not your typical workers Jakarta. In fact, they do not live in Jakarta but Cilicap travel from the south coast of West Java in the hope that some kind Drivers will appreciate their colorful costumes and traditional dances and part with some Rupiah so they can earn a living and continue for round trips between cities.
While most expatriates complain about the traffic in Jakarta for this couple, it is a boon because they are positioned at key locations where traffic is often at a standstill, the execution of Jaipong, a traditional Sundanese dance. The dance was created in the 1960s when President Suharto banned most forms of Western music in 1961.
The rainy season is an obstacle such as a wet and bedraggled street dancer does not have the same appeal to motorists, so during this time they perform in bus stations under shelter. Sometimes they get lucky and get a work contract of representation during circumcision ceremonies, birthday parties and weddings. The dance is quite the family as they follow the footsteps of their parents and their 23 year old daughter is also a very good dancer.
This smiling couple seemed very comfortable and happy with their work and really love the show. They are very honest, genuine people doing their best to survive in a competitive environment and a great example of people overcoming the odds, which is very much the life in the streets of Jakarta.