Wayang Puppet Theatre

　　Proclamation: 2003

　　Member State(s): Indonesia

　　Region: Asia-Pacific

　　Associated themes: Performing arts

　　Renowned for its elaborate puppets and complex musical styles, the ancient form of story-telling known as Wayang Puppet Theatre originated on the Indonesian island of Java. For 10 centuries wayang flourished at the royal courts of Java and Bali as well as in rural areas. Today, wayang is practiced not only on Java and Bali, but also on the islands of Lombok, Madura, Sumatra and Borneo, where various local performance styles and musical accompaniments have developed.

　　Wayang performances are visually striking, owing mainly to the puppets themselves. Although these carefully handcrafted objects vary considerably in size, shape and style, two principal types prevail: the three-dimensional wooden puppet (wayang klitik or golèk) and the flat leather shadow puppet (wayang kulit) projected in front of a screen lit from behind. Both types are characterized by stylized costumes and facial features and articulated body parts. The master puppeteer (dalang) carefully manipulates the swiveling arms by means of slender sticks attached to the puppets. For greater dramatic effect, singers and musicians play complex melodies on bronze instruments and gamelan drums. In the past, puppeteers were regarded as cultivated literary experts who transmitted philosophical, moral and aesthetic values through their art. The words and actions of comic characters representing the "common man" have provided an acceptable vehicle for criticizing sensitive social and political issues, and it is believed that this special role may have contributed to wayang's survival over the centuries. Wayang stories borrow characters from indigenous myths and ancient Indian epics, and heroes from famous Persian tales feature prominently in the distinctive narrative styles developed in Java and Lombok. The repertoire and performance techniques were transmitted orally within informal family circles of puppeteers, musicians and puppet-makers. To this day, master puppeteers are expected to memorize a vast repertoire of stories and to recite archaic narrative passages and poetic songs in a witty and creative manner.