Grade 7 Music
Grade 7 Music
STORIES:
TRADITIONAL
THEATER IN
SOUTHEAST
ASIA
Theater in Southeast Asia includes many traditional
performances that tell stories through acting, singing,
music, dance, and sometimes puppetry. Each country in
Southeast Asia has unique theater styles that reflect its
culture, beliefs, and history. For example:
In Indonesia, there’s wayang kulit, shadow puppet theater
that uses intricately carved puppets to act out stories.
Spiritual Connection: Wayang Kulit is often seen as a bridge between the human
world and the spirit world. Performances are sometimes used to communicate with
ancestors or seek blessings and protection. The puppeteer, known as the dalang, is
considered a spiritual guide who understands these connections.
Rituals Before the Show: Important preparations and rituals are done before a
Wayang Kulit show, especially during religious ceremonies, harvest festivals, or
celebrations. The dalang may say prayers, make offerings, and bless the puppets to
bring positive energy and ensure a successful performance.
5
WAYANG KULIT
Wayang Kulit is a traditional shadow puppet theater from
Indonesia, especially popular in Java and Bali. In Wayang
Kulit, flat leather puppets are intricately carved and
painted, then held up behind a lit screen to cast shadows.
The puppeteer, called the dalang, moves the puppets and
tells the story, making the characters come to life with
voices, music, and sound effects.
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WAYANG GOLEK IN SUNDA
Wayang Golek is a traditional wooden puppet theater
from the Sundanese culture in West Java, Indonesia.
Unlike Wayang Kulit, which uses flat leather puppets and
shadows, Wayang Golek uses three-dimensional wooden
puppets that are carved, painted, and dressed in colorful
costumes.