A new kind of experience is making a splash in Bali’s Gianyar Regency. Varuna, Indonesia’s first underwater theatrical dining show, is transforming how visitors experience entertainment, culture, and conservation. Located inside Taman Safari Bali, the production combines storytelling, Australian creative direction, and Balinese artistry to create an underwater world filled with mermaids, music, and mythology.
Recognised by CNN Indonesia as “The Best Outstanding Tourism Innovation”, Varuna has quickly become a must-see for travellers seeking something special. Hosted inside Asia’s largest aquarium, the show immerses guests in a 360-degree ocean setting.
“Varuna was designed to inspire, to make audiences fall in love with the ocean and all its creatures,” says Alexander Zulkarnain, ACT CMOr of Taman Safari Indonesia Group. “Every scene and every dish tells a story of balance between nature and humanity. It’s entertainment with a message.”
A Story Inspired by the Sea
Varuna follows a young guardian on a quest to restore balance to the ocean. Guided by Australian Creative Director Peter Wilson, the show blends Balinese cultural elements such as wayang kulit with modern choreography, projection mapping, and cinematic music by Elwin Hendrijanto. Australian and Indonesian creatives worked closely together, creating a performance that feels both global and uniquely Balinese.
Underwater Theatre and Live Performances
Guests are transported into an aquatic fantasy with real mermaids, underwater performers, and over 30 dancers and musicians. Dynamic lighting, colourful costumes inspired by coral, and immersive soundscapes create a magical world beneath the waves.
“Varuna represents the kind of creative partnership Australia and Indonesia do best,” adds Laetitia. “It’s imaginative, heartfelt, and rooted in respect for culture and conservation.”
Dining Meets Theatre
Varuna offers three dining options:
- Premium (approx. AUD 115) – Three-course menu with wine, front-row seats, VIP lounge access, and canapés and cocktails/mocktails
- Deluxe (approx. AUD 95) – Three-course lunch or dinner with preferred seating and included drinks
- Regular (approx. AUD 65) – Show-only ticket with snacks and drinks available for purchase
Each dish takes inspiration from ocean flavours and aligns with scenes in the performance, creating a seamless journey between food and theatre.
A Creative Partnership
The production brings together award-winning artists including Patrick Larsen, Ian Knowles, I Made Sidia, and Benoît Justras of Cirque du Soleil fame. Principal performers Ferry and Nikita lead the story as the Prince and Princess of the Sea, supported by a talented ensemble and advanced aquatic technology that makes the theatre feel truly submerged.
A Message for the Planet
While visually impressive, Varuna carries an important message about ocean conservation. It forms part of Taman Safari Indonesia’s mission to use creativity and education to inspire environmental awareness. The show also introduces guests to the soon-to-open Marine Safari Bali, a large marine park with immersive zones, interactive learning, and conservation initiatives.
A Must-See in Bali
Located close to Ubud and Sanur, Varuna offers visitors a world-class cultural experience beyond Bali’s beaches. Performances run daily at 12.30pm and 6.30pm and last around 90 minutes. Suitable for couples, families, and solo travellers, the experience leaves guests with a deeper appreciation for the ocean.
“Australians have always felt a deep connection with Bali,” says Laetitia. “Varuna builds on that bond, inviting guests to experience the island in a completely new way, through creativity, conservation, and community.”
For more information, visit their website and follow them on Instagram.
