<![CDATA[This research is motivated by concerns about the fading of the meaning of local culture due to the development of popular culture that tends to ignore traditional values. The Domba Garut Dance by Sanggar Galura Kencana was chosen as the object of study because it is believed to hold cultural symbols that represent the identity of the Garut people. By using a qualitative method and ethnographic approach, and based on the theory of symbolic interactionism, this research aims to reveal the symbolic meaning contained in dance movements, makeup, costumes, music, and dancers' roles. Data was obtained through observation and in-depth interviews with choreographers and dancers. The results showed that dance movements represent Garut sheep in the art of agility known as dashing, make-up and costumes symbolize strength, simplicity, and courage, while music and poetry strengthen the nuances of fighting. This dance can be performed by men and women as long as they are able to internalize the symbolic value in question. In conclusion, Domba Garut Dance is not just a performing art, but a symbolic communication medium that represents cultural identity and a means of local education that needs to be preserved. Abstrak Penelitian ini dilatar belakangi oleh kekhawatiran terhadap lunturnya makna budaya lokal akibat perkembangan budaya populer yang cenderung mengabaikan nilai Tradisional. Tari Domba Garut karya Sanggar Galura Kencana dipilih sebagai objek kajian karena diyakini menyimpan simbol-simbol budaya yang merepresentasikan identitas masyarakat Garut. Dengan menggunakan metode kualitatif dan pendekatan etnografi, serta berlandaskan teori interaksionisme simbolik, penelitian ini bertujuan mengungkap makna simbolik yang terkandung dalam gerak tari, tata rias, kostum, musik, dan peran penari. Data diperoleh melalui observasi dan wawancara mendalam dengan koreografer dan penari. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa gerak tari merepresentasikan Domba Garut dalam seni ketangkasan yang dikenal dengan gagah. Make up atau tata rias dan kostum menjadi simbol kekuatan, kesederhanaan, dan keberanian, sedangkan musik dan syair memperkuat nuansa pertarungan. Tari ini dapat dibawakan oleh laki-laki maupun perempuan selama mampu menginternalisasi nilai simbolik yang dimaksud. Kesimpulannya, Tari Domba Garut bukan sekadar seni pertunjukan, melainkan media komunikasi simbolik yang merepresentasikan identitas budaya dan sarana edukasi lokal yang perlu dilestarikan.]]>
