HISTORY OF ZAPIN IN JOHORE
Long time ago, after Malacca was invaded by Portugese, the Sultan and his people moved to Johore with the Malay-Islamic cultures and customs. From the mixture of Malay-Arab, Zapin Melayu was later introduced as one of the dance to be performed during the ceremonies and spread througout the Malay-Arab arpachilego. Zapin also known as Jipin, Jepin or Dana. it was created from the influence of steps and song from Hadramaut and then involved with the touches of Malay style until it becomes part of Malay culture.
What is special about this dance is that the it is performed exhibit the Malay culture which implement the politeness and richness of it. To make it more integrity, the sounds of percussion will liven up and usually, the dance will be accompanied by Gambus, Gendang Marwas and others.
There are 13 types of Zapin dance in Johore:
- Zapin Pekajang
- Zapin Tenglu
- Zapin Pulau
- Zapin Tanjung Labuh
- Zapin Kores
- Zapin Padang Sari
- Zapin Dayung
- Zapin Sri Bunian
- Zapin Parit Mastar
- Zapin Lenga
- Zapin Parit Bagan
- Zapin Muar
- Zapin Putar Alam