WAYANG
on IndoArtNet

Link to our pages on Wayang Kulit Shadow Puppets and Wayang Golek Rod Puppets.

The word Wayang includes a great variety of traditional Indonesian drama performances using shadow puppets (Wayang Kulit), pictorial scrolls (Wayang Beber), three-dimensional (Wayang Golek) or relief (Wayang Klitik) rod puppets or even human actors (Wayang Orang or Wong). It is a highly developed art with many regional forms. Most performances are held in classical Javanese language and last a whole night or longer. The stories are based on the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabarata.

Once upon a time, a Dalang (puppeteer) and his troupe would travel from village to village. In these days before TV and Internet, his performances were among the rare occasions for entertainment. He was a well respected man and often brought news from the outside world, which otherwise would never have reached remote areas.

Alas, these days are gone, but Wayang performances are still an integral part of many Indonesian weddings and other traditional functions. Nowadays, Wayang can also be seen at cultural centres, festivals and special performances are given for tourists.

IndoArtNet can supply everything you need for an authentic Wayang performance: a wide range of Wayang Kulit and Wayang Golek puppets, stages, screens, Wayang Orang costumes, accessories and even the Gamelan instruments for the accompanying music. Please contact us with your enquiry.