The Dibingi Bebai Dance in Saibatin Wedding Ceremonies: Performance Form, Cultural Meaning, and Traditional Continuity

Background Traditional performing arts constitute an essential component of intangible cultural heritage because they preserve collective memory, cultural identity, and customary values across successive generations. Dibingi Bebai dance, however, remains insufficiently documented, while relationships among its performance form, cultural meaning, and traditional continuity have received limited scholarly attention. This study investigates Dibingi Bebai dance performed during Saibatin wedding ceremonies by examining its performance form, cultural meaning, and mechanisms sustaining traditional continuity. Method A qualitative case study with an ethnographic orientation was employed in the sub-district of Penengahan La’ay, West Coast Regency, Lampung Province, Indonesia. Twelve purposively selected participants, comprising traditional leaders, senior dancers, musicians, younger dancers, a cultural practitioner, and community elders, contributed rich cultural knowledge. Data were collected through field observations, semi-structured interviews, and document analysis, then analysed using reflexive thematic analysis supported by methodological triangulation and member checking. Results The findings of this study reveal that Dibingi Bebai possesses an integrated performance structure encompassing movements, costumes, makeup, musical accompaniment, floor patterns, venue, duration, and ceremonial themes. The performance elements collectively communicate respect, dignity, hospitality, and Saibatin cultural identity while functioning as symbolic expressions within customary wedding traditions. Furthermore, intergenerational learning, community participation, and repeated ceremonial performances sustain the dance as living intangible cultural heritage. Conclusion Hence, this study provides valuable evidence supporting heritage documentation, culturally responsive arts education, community-based safeguarding, and sustainable cultural preservation policies.