Shadow Theatre in Java - The puppets, performance and repertoire
Javanese society and wayang theatre are closely connected; not only are ideas from the wayang Stores deeply embedded in Javanese culture, wayang is also a means of expression. The heroes of wayang stores, accompanied by their servants, demons and gods, have been part of everyday life in Java for centuries. They have played the part of role models and examples, but at times they have also served as mouth-pieces that are able to express sentiments that would otherwise remain unspoken.
Over the centuries, the ancient wayang theatre has developed into a distinctive form of art. Foreign influences provided new stories, characters were added, new styles were refined at the courts, and, in the twentieth century, wayang theatre even served as a vehicle for propaganda, especially during the struggle for independence from Dutch colonial rule.
Illustrated with many high-quality colour reproductions of some of the most beautiful puppets known, and with historical pictures, this book is an excellent introduction to wayang purwa, one of the most important features of cultural life in Java.