wayang golek
Wayang golek is a traditional Indonesian puppet theater that originated in West Java. It features three-dimensional wooden puppets, often intricately carved and painted, which are manipulated by a puppeteer called a dalang. The performances typically depict stories from Indonesian folklore, mythology, and the Ramayana or Mahabharata epics.
The puppets are usually accompanied by traditional music played on instruments like the gamelan. Wayang golek serves not only as entertainment but also as a means of cultural expression, preserving local traditions and values. It is often performed during festivals, ceremonies, and community gatherings, engaging audiences of all ages.