The Kecak dance was created in the 1930s by a Balinese artist named Wayan Limbak and a German painter named Walter Spies. The Balinese Kecak dance is inspired by the Sanghyang dance. Sanghyang dance itself is a sacred Balinese dance that is performed in Hindu temples to drive away misfortune and disease. The original Kecak dance is only performed by men aged 50 years and over.

Meanwhile, the name of the Kecak dance is inspired by the word “Cak… cak… cak…” which is chanted throughout the dance performance. In the past, the Balinese Kecak dance was only performed in certain areas, such as Bona Village in Gianyar Regency. Day after day, Kecak is performed in almost all areas of Bali, especially on special occasions to welcome guests. But nowadays, this dance drama is shown everywhere in Bali, especially in culture-based tourist destinations.