Wayang kulit

IMG_0169

The Indonesian shadow theater has been praticed for a long time. Accompanied by a group of musicians – Gamelan -, puppets move between the lamp and the fabric. From the other side of the screen, the viewer enjoys Indian legends from the Ramayana.

 

IMG_0199That evening we were invited to the weekly rehearsal of wayang. The atmosphere is very friendly. The master of the house brings donuts, jasmine tea and cigarettes. In a smoky atmosphere, the musicians move from instrument to instrument (which is a feature of this music). Meanwhile puppeteer continues imperturbably the litany of stories.

The evening continues until very late. In the past, wayang lasted all night, but now with modern life, the sessions last about 3 hours.

we were enchanted and we had the chance to learn the handling of finely crafted leather puppets.