Traditional Theatre in Indonesia

Indonesia is a country with diverse cultures, and tradition plays a significant role in shaping the country's identity. Traditional arts such as dance, music, theater, and crafts are integral to Indonesian culture, and they have been passed down from generation to generation for centuries. These traditions are often deeply rooted in the beliefs and customs of the local communities, and they reflect the country's rich cultural heritage.

Traditional arts have evolved over time, and many contemporary artists have been incorporating modern elements into their work to appeal to a broader audience. For example, traditional dance forms like the Javanese court dance, which was once performed exclusively for the royalty, have been adapted for public performances and competitions. Similarly, traditional music forms like Gamelan and Keroncong have been infused with modern instruments and styles to make them more accessible to younger generations.

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in traditional theater in Indonesia, particularly in the form of puppetry. Wayang Kulit, or shadow puppetry, is one of the most popular traditional theater forms in Indonesia, and it has been recognized as a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. Contemporary puppeteers are experimenting with new techniques and themes, using the traditional art form to comment on modern social and political issues.

Despite the modernization of traditional arts, many Indonesians continue to hold on to their traditional values and customs. Traditional ceremonies, such as weddings, funerals, and religious festivals, are still celebrated across the country, and they often involve intricate rituals and performances. These ceremonies play an essential role in preserving and passing down cultural traditions from one generation to the next.

Some traditional Indonesian theater is as follows:

1. Lenong (Traditional Indonesian Theatre of Batavia)

There are two forms of Lenong;
(1) Denes
Denes Lenong spectacle tells of kings and princes in the kingdom, now it is rarely encountered, since almost no successors.

(2) Lenong Preman

Performances of "Lenong Preman" tells about ordinary people, as we know it today, in the beginning, Lenong Preman played all night. Since the days of growing and demand situation, the changes occur.

Along with the launch of TIM (Taman Ismail Marzuki), lenong that had just played in the villages, by SM. Ardan, brought to TIM, but when the show was shortened by one or two and a half hours.

Another traditional Betawi theater include Betawi Mask (Topeng Betawi), Mask Blantek (Topeng Blantek) and Jipeng (Jinong).

•  Lenong using musical instrument "Gambang Kromong"

•  Topeng Betawi using musical instruments "Tabuhan Topeng Akar"

•  Topeng Blantek using musical instruments "Tabuhan Rebana Biang"

•  Jipeng or Jinong using musical instruments "Tanjidor"

Lenong performances using Betawi. Historically, Lenong under the influence of the theater Nobility.

2. Longser (traditional Indonesian Theatre in West Java)

Longser is a traditional theater art form in Indonesia that originated in the 1920s and gained widespread popularity until the 1960s. The name Longser is derived from the words "Melong" meaning seeing and "seredet" meaning intrigued. This term refers to the emotional impact that a Longser show can have on its audience. The show is designed to captivate the audience with its simple, witty, and entertaining performances.

Longser shows can be performed anywhere, as they do not require elaborate decorations. The seating arrangement is circular, which allows the audience to be close to the performers and to have a clear view of the show. Longser performances usually consist of a group of actors, dancers, and musicians who work together to tell a story through movement, music, and dialogue.

Longser shows often feature comedic and satirical elements, with actors portraying exaggerated characters and situations. The characters in Longser shows are often based on archetypes of Indonesian society, such as the poor farmer, the wealthy merchant, or the cunning thief. Some of the most famous Longser characters include Ateng Japar, Bang Tawes, Bang Tilil, Bang Soang, and others.

Despite its declining popularity in recent years, Longser remains an important part of Indonesian cultural heritage. Many efforts have been made to preserve and promote Longser, such as holding festivals and competitions, documenting performances, and providing training and support for performers. Longser continues to be an entertaining and engaging form of traditional theater, beloved by audiences across Indonesia.

3. Ketoprak (Indonesian Traditional Theatre in Central Java)

Ketoprak is a form of traditional theater in Indonesia that originated from the Javanese culture, specifically from Central Java. It is believed to have been first staged around 1909 and was initially called Ketoprak Dimples. At first, Ketoprak was just a game played by villagers to entertain themselves by using a mortar that sounded at full moon, which was called gejogan entertainment. However, Ketoprak later evolved to become a complete and popular traditional theater spectacle that includes music, drums, flutes, singing, and drama that depicts the lives of people in the countryside.

Ketoprak has become an important aspect of Javanese culture and is often performed during cultural events and festivals. It usually tells a story about the struggle of the common people against the power of the elites, with elements of comedy and satire added in. The stories often feature Javanese mythology, legends, and history. The characters are usually played by male actors, although female roles are also present in some Ketoprak performances.

The music and songs in Ketoprak are an essential part of the performance. They are usually played by a gamelan orchestra, consisting of traditional Javanese instruments such as gongs, xylophones, and drums. The music and songs are meant to enhance the emotional impact of the story being told and to convey the feelings of the characters.

Ketoprak has undergone various changes and developments throughout its history. In modern times, it has been influenced by Western theater and cinema, leading to the incorporation of new elements such as lighting, costumes, and set designs. Despite these changes, Ketoprak remains an important part of Javanese culture, and efforts are being made to preserve and promote this traditional art form.

4. Ludruk (traditional Indonesian Theatre in East Java)

Ludruk is a type of traditional theater that originated from Jombang, a city known as the city of students in Indonesia. It is performed using the East Javanese dialect of the Javanese language. Ludruk has become popular over time and spread to other areas, including the western region of the Madiun and Kediri residency, and to Central Java.

One of the unique aspects of Ludruk is that all the roles are played by men. The performances are characterized by the use of humor, satire, and parikan, which are humorous Javanese verses. Ludruk's stories often depict the daily struggles and challenges faced by ordinary people in society, and their fight against oppression.

The influence of parikan in Ludruk theater is significant, as it adds humor and light-heartedness to the performances. An example of a famous parikan sung during the Japanese colonial era by Cak Durasim, which depicted the struggle against the kempetei, the Japanese military police. The parikan goes like this: "Pagupon Omahe doro melok Nipon added soro," which means "Our house is small, but the Japanese (kempetei) is even smaller."

Despite being a traditional form of theater, Ludruk remains popular and relevant in modern-day Indonesia. It has been performed in various festivals and events, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage.

5. Arja (traditional Indonesian Theatre in Bali)

Arja is a traditional Balinese theater that has been popular for many years in Bali. It is a unique form of traditional theater that is known for its emphasis on dancing and singing. Originally, Arja was performed by men, but over time, women have taken on a more prominent role in the art form, due to its emphasis on dance.

The performances in Arja are generally based on the Gambuh story, which is a story of contrast. However, over time, other stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata have also been incorporated into the performances. The characters that appear in Arja include Melung (Inye, Lean), a servant girl, Galuh or Sari, Limbur or Prameswari, the king and princess, paramedics, and others.

The dancers in Arja performances are highly trained and skilled. They are able to convey a range of emotions through their movements, and their movements are often accompanied by the sounds of gamelan music. The performances are elaborate, colorful, and visually stunning, with elaborate costumes and makeup.

Arja is an important part of Balinese culture and is often performed during temple ceremonies and other important events. The performances serve as a way to connect people to their culture and history, and to preserve traditional forms of expression. The popularity of Arja has led to the establishment of Arja schools in Bali, where young people can learn the art form and continue its legacy for future generations.

6. Kemidi Rudat (traditional Indonesian Theater in NTT)

Kemidi Rudat is a traditional theater performance that is popular in West Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. This form of theater is similar to other traditional theater forms found in Indonesia. The Kemidi Rudat spectacle is a combination of drama, dance, and singing.

The word "Rudat" means marching, and it is said that the origin of the word comes from the influence of the Malay culture. The music used in Kemidi Rudat performances has a Malay influence and is played using drums, tambourines, violins, and other instruments. The story of Kemidi Rudat is based on old Malay stories, and the dialogue is spoken in the Malay language.

Kemidi Rudat performances are known for their colorful costumes and lively dance movements. The performers wear traditional Malay clothing, such as sarongs and kebayas. The dance movements are accompanied by the rhythm of the music and are meant to tell the story of the performance.

Kemidi Rudat is an important cultural tradition in West Nusa Tenggara, and it is often performed during special events and celebrations. The performance is a symbol of the region's rich cultural heritage and is an important part of its identity.

7. Kondobuleng (traditional Indonesian Theatre in  Makassar)

Kondobuleng is a traditional theater form originating from Makassar, which is part of the Bugis culture in Indonesia. The name "Kondobuleng" is derived from the words "condo" which means stork and "buleng" which means white, hence "Kondobuleng" means white stork. The spectacle of Kondobuleng is filled with symbolic meaning and is played spontaneously, just like any other traditional theater. The symbolic story revolves around humans and storks and is presented with a combination of jokes, motion, and stylization.

What sets Kondobuleng apart from other traditional theaters is the absence of a boundary between the player character and the property that is used in a particular scene. In other words, the actors play multiple roles, including inanimate objects. For example, they can play the role of a boat crossing the ocean while also portraying characters on board the boat. This unique approach to acting creates an immersive experience for the audience and makes the performance more engaging.

Kondobuleng is not only a form of entertainment, but it also plays an important role in preserving the Bugis culture. The traditional theater form is passed down from generation to generation and is seen as a way to keep the Bugis culture and traditions alive. Today, Kondobuleng is still performed in Makassar and other parts of Indonesia, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Bugis people.

8. Dulmuluk (traditional Indonesian Theatre in Palembang)

Dulmuluk is a traditional theater performance that originated in Palembang, South Sumatra, Indonesia. It is a type of theatrical performance that tells stories from the Abdoel Moeloek saga, with the main character named Dulmuluk, hence the name of the theater. Dulmuluk is also known as the Indra Duke Theatre.

The performance of Dulmuluk involves a combination of drama, dance, and singing as a means of storytelling. Music is also an integral part of the spectacle, as the actors sing their dialogue. The music is played using traditional instruments such as the gong, rebana, and gendang.

The Dulmuluk spectacle is well-known for its use of humor and jokes, making it a lively and entertaining performance. The use of dance, singing, and drama create a dynamic and engaging performance, which draws in the audience and keeps them captivated throughout.

Dulmuluk has been passed down through generations and has become an important part of Palembang's cultural heritage. It is often performed during traditional ceremonies, such as weddings and religious festivals, and is also featured in cultural festivals and events. The Dulmuluk spectacle has become an important symbol of Palembang's rich cultural history and identity, and continues to be celebrated and performed by local communities today.

9. Randai (traditional Indonesian Theatre in Minangkabau)

Randai is a traditional theater performance that originated from the Minangkabau culture of West Sumatra, Indonesia. The term "Randai" is derived from the word "randah", which means to invite or summon. The Randai theater performance has its roots in oral literature called "kaba", which means "story". The kaba is in the form of couplets and quatrains sung to the accompaniment of various musical instruments, including the rabab, saluang, bansi, and tambourine.

The Randai performance takes place in a circular pattern, based on the movements of contrasting dance and martial arts movements, which are called "wave". The stories that are told in the Randai spectacle are often oral stories in the form of legends and fairy tales that are popular in the community. The performance is characterized by the integration of music, singing, dance, drama, and martial arts.

The Randai performance is usually exhibited in the context of traditional ceremonies or festivals. It is a unique art form that is often used to preserve cultural heritage and promote cultural identity. The Randai theater is also used as a tool for social and political commentary, as it can address issues that are important to the community.

The martial arts movements in Randai are not just for show, but they also have practical applications. The movements are derived from traditional Minangkabau martial arts, which are used for self-defense and combat. The martial arts movements in Randai are performed by the dancers in synchronization with the music, creating a mesmerizing visual spectacle.

Overall, Randai is a unique and fascinating art form that combines music, singing, dance, drama, and martial arts. It is an important cultural heritage of the Minangkabau people and a valuable contribution to the world of theater.

10.Makyong (traditional Indonesian theater in Riau)

Makyong is a traditional theater art form that originated from the Mantang island in Riau, Indonesia. It started as a dance and singing performance, but later evolved into storytelling, depicting legends and folk tales. The art form was highly regarded by nobles and sultans, and was often exhibited in palaces. The spectacle begins with a ceremony presided over by a panjak, who is responsible for all offerings given for salvation.

Humor, dance, singing, and music are the main components of a Makyong performance. What sets Makyong apart from other traditional theatrical performances is that it is predominantly played by women. If male performers do appear, they always wear masks, while the female performers do not. The stories of the play are based on oral literature in the form of fairy tales and legends that are popular in the community.

Makyong is a highly ritualistic art form that requires a lot of preparation and discipline. The performers must undergo rigorous training to perfect their movements and singing, and the costumes and makeup must be meticulously crafted to create a visually stunning experience for the audience. The music and instruments used in Makyong are also unique, consisting of traditional Malay instruments such as the gambus, rebab, and serunai.

In recent years, Makyong has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks to efforts by cultural preservationists and the government to promote traditional art forms. Makyong festivals are now held annually in various regions of Indonesia, providing a platform for artists to showcase their skills and for audiences to experience the beauty and richness of Indonesian culture.

11.Mamanda (traditional Indonesian Theatre in Banjarmasin)

Traditional theater Mamanda is a cultural heritage from Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan. Its roots date back to 1897 when the Duke Malacca group arrived in Banjarmasin, bringing with them the story from the poem Abdoel Moeloek. Despite Banjar people being familiar with various traditional arts such as puppets, masks, Rudat, dancing, Hadrah, and Japin, the Duke group managed to carve out a special place in the society with their unique theatrical performances.

Over time, the group’s name changed to Badamuluk Duke and eventually evolved into Bamanda or Mamanda. The term Mamanda itself comes from two words, "mama" meaning "uncle" and "nda" meaning "honorable". Thus, Mamanda is translated to "Dear Uncle". The structure and characterization of Mamanda performances have remained relatively unchanged over the years, except for some minor modifications in terms of dressmaking, hairdressing, music, and artistic expression.

Mamanda performances typically involve a group of male actors who play different roles, ranging from the lead characters to supporting roles. The storyline often revolves around the themes of love, betrayal, and family conflicts, and the performances are usually accompanied by traditional music, dance, and singing. The actors in Mamanda theater use their voice, movement, and facial expressions to convey the emotions and messages of their characters.

Despite the popularity of modern entertainment, traditional theater Mamanda still holds a significant place in the cultural heritage of South Kalimantan. It serves as a reminder of the rich history and traditions of the region, as well as a means of passing down cultural values and beliefs to future generations.

Q&A : Traditional Theatre in Indonesia

What is a traditional theater?

A traditional theater is a form of performing arts that has been passed down through generations and has deep cultural roots in a particular region or country.

What does the most well known form of traditional theater in Indonesia consist of?

The most well known form of traditional theater in Indonesia is wayang kulit, a form of shadow puppetry.

What is a well known Indonesian theater popular?

Wayang kulit is a well-known and popular Indonesian traditional theater.

What are the elements of Indonesian theater?

The elements of Indonesian theater include music, dance, storytelling, and visual arts, often combined to create a rich and immersive theatrical experience.

What is a traditional theatre art of Indonesia?

Wayang kulit is a traditional theater art of Indonesia that involves shadow puppetry.

What is the traditional entertainment in Indonesia?

Traditional entertainment in Indonesia includes various forms of music, dance, puppetry, and theater.

What are the three traditional forms of theater?

The three traditional forms of theater are puppetry, dance drama, and masked theater.

Is wayang kulit a traditional theater form in Indonesia?

Yes, wayang kulit is a traditional theater form in Indonesia.

Is wayang kulit a traditional theater art of Indonesia?

Yes, wayang kulit is a traditional theater art of Indonesia that has a long history and cultural significance.

What is the most popular Indonesian traditional ensemble?

The most popular Indonesian traditional ensemble is the gamelan orchestra, which often accompanies wayang kulit performances.

What country is known for their traditional theater art form?

Many countries have their own traditional theater art forms, but some well-known examples include Japan's Noh theater, China's Beijing opera, and India's Kathakali.

What is one of the most famous forms of arts in Indonesia?

One of the most famous forms of arts in Indonesia is batik, a traditional textile art that involves dyeing fabric with intricate patterns.

What kind of theatre is wayang kulit?

Wayang kulit is a form of puppet theater that uses shadow puppets made of leather to tell stories.

What are the traditional types in wayang kulit?

The traditional types in wayang kulit include the heroes (pandawa), the villains (korawa), and various gods and goddesses from Hindu mythology.

Where did wayang kulit theatre originate?

Wayang kulit theater originated in Java, Indonesia, and has since spread to other parts of the country and Southeast Asia.

What is wayang puppet theater?

Wayang puppet theater is a traditional form of puppetry from Indonesia that involves using intricately designed puppets to tell stories from Hindu epics.

What instrument is wayang kulit theater?

The main instrument used in wayang kulit theater is the gamelan orchestra, which typically includes a variety of percussion and melodic instruments.

What are the main characters of the wayang kulit theater?

The main characters of the wayang kulit theater include the heroes (pandawa), the villains (korawa), and various gods and goddesses from Hindu mythology, such as Krishna, Arjuna, and Sita.

What is the function of wayang kulit as a theater form?

The function of wayang kulit as a theater form is to entertain, educate, and transmit cultural and moral values to the audience, while also serving as a form of ritual and spiritual expression.

What is the story of wayang kulit?

Wayang kulit tells a wide range of stories from Hindu epics, such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as local legends and folklore. These stories often feature themes of good vs. evil, heroism, and the triumph of virtue over vice.