Topeng Masked Theatre

This chapter focuses mainly on Topeng Pajegan , the one-man form of Topeng, often seen in sacred temple events, as opposed to Topeng Panca that is produced with up to five performers, although techniques are similar. It is the Balinese form that most strongly demonstrates acting and performance skills with a mixture of stylised and occasional improvised realistic techniques. The word topeng means mask. The stories enacted by the performer are derived both from Balinese and Javanese myths as well as local history. The focus is often though on local stories and thereby creates a close communal bond between spectators and performers. Most Balinese are concerned more with the social, religious and entertainment values of the performance rather than historical detail. The origins of the form are briefly narrated and discussed. In a typical performance, as in the case study described in detail, a single performer narrates a story and plays every character himself. By changing character masks and sometimes other items such as wigs and hats he creates the whole cast of characters. Each masked character has specific movements, gestures and voice diction that take many years to learn.