For ages 11 - 15 years.

A month-long immersive learning journey exploring Balinese history, culture, art, and identity with with Lisé Whitfield and Dr. Julian Michels. In Bali, community members gather regularly to create ceremonies through movement, music, props, and masks, exploring the many aspects of our humanity. Children grow up participating in these rituals, often using the movement and masks to explore and express their own emerging identities. During this month-long adventure, students will immerse themselves in Bali’s culture through dance, mask-making, ceremonies, and storytelling, focusing on the Ramayana and other traditional Hindu stories. They will articulate and reflect on their own strengths and challenges, drawing inspiration from Balinese mythology. Students will also explore how challenges can lead to growth and discover ways to celebrate all parts of who they are. The experience will culminate in an original Balinese-inspired performance, featuring masks, props, and storytelling elements the students create. Traditional fire and water purification ceremonies will open and close the journey, honoring their personal and creative growth. This program offers a unique, hands-on opportunity to engage with Balinese culture and mythology, while exploring students' own evolving identities. Learning in a small group in a spectacular bamboo architecture setting provides an intimate and inspiring environment for their personal and cultural discovery. Cost: $2200 per student Inclusions: Immersive program integrating history, literature, dance, theater, and visual arts Led by educator Lisé Whitfield and professor Dr. Julian Michels Classes: Monday-Thursday, 9:30 AM - 2:30 PM Daily Balinese lunch Family Welcome Dinner & Green Village tour Family participation in Balinese fire ceremony and water blessing Attendance at 2-3 Balinese dance performances Field trips to Toko Rawa mask shop and Setia Darma House of Masks Balinese dance classes and batik workshop Participation in water purification ceremony Study of "The Ramayana" and daily creative activities Creation of final performance inspired by Balinese mythology Exclusions: Accommodations (families book their own in Sibang or Ubud) Flights to/from Bali Local transportation This program is for children ages 11-15; siblings outside this range must make independent care or schooling arrangements.