Step Into the Shadows: Balinese Puppetry Comes to Life at UH Mānoa on 11/23

Have you ever watched a story unfold through dancing shadows? Balinese shadow puppetry, or Wayang Kulit, is an ancient art form that turns storytelling into something magical. With intricately carved puppets, flickering light, and the hypnotic sounds of a gamelan orchestra, it’s like stepping into another world.

On November 23rd, UH Mānoa is hosting a free performance of Lutung and the Storm, a mini wayang show full of heart, resilience, and artistry. This mini show was created for children with original puppets and is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the magic of shadow puppetry. The creative use of shadow play and music is natural fit for children and kids are invited to come early for a hands-on experience of puppet making.

What Makes Balinese Shadow Puppetry Special?

Imagine a screen lit from behind, and on it, shadows of puppets carved with the finest detail tell tales of heroes, villains, gods, and ordinary folk. These puppets, made from hand-painted leather, are brought to life by a dalang—a puppeteer who is truly a master of multitasking. They don’t just move the puppets; they voice all the characters, create sound effects, and even direct the gamelan orchestra.

If you’ve never heard of gamelan, this music is an experience in itself. The orchestra’s blend of gongs, metallophones, and drums sets the mood, weaving together excitement, tension, and celebration. It’s impossible not to get swept up in the rhythm.

What’s truly remarkable is how Wayang Kulit blends entertainment with deep cultural meaning. In Southeast Asian these performances often happen during temple ceremonies, exploring themes like light versus dark and harmony versus chaos. Yet, the stories are universal and anyone, anywhere, can find something to relate to.

Why You Can’t Miss Lutung and the Storm

Here’s your chance to experience this enchanting art form with the family up close. Lutung and the Storm tells a story about facing challenges with courage and finding balance in a chaotic world. This performance is part of the Jaga Alam Project whose mission is to create environmentally-themed traditional plays for kids & families with original music by Made Widana – a prominent Balinese musician and dancer. Made Moja, also a prominent artist in the field of Wayang Kulit, known for pioneering this type of modern shadow puppetry will be directing the show. This shortened mini piece will feature one musician playing a diverse range of instruments instead of a full gamelan orchestra – the norm for larger productions.

The show is free and open to the public. So, whether you’re a die-hard fan of traditional arts or just curious to see what it’s all about, this is the perfect opportunity to explore something new.

Event Details

• What: Lutung and the Storm — A traditional Balinese shadow play created by the Jaga Alam Ensemble
• When: November 23 at 7:30PM – Keiki puppet making activities start at 7pm!
• Where: East-West Center’s Hale Halavai on the UH Mānoa campus
• Admission: Free!

Inspired by the art of Balinese shadow play? Click here to check this article on how to make your own shadow puppetry shows at home!

by Honolulu Vibes