Wayang wong literally means “human shadow”, is a type of Javanese theatrical performance with themes taken from the Indian epics of Ramayana and Mahabharata. The enthusiasm towards traditional art performance was low very among the local young population, who tend to see it unfashionable and boring. To regain its young audience, this daily performance in Solo also incorporates current political jokes, trending topics, and even world pop culture in Javanese style. When I was there, I watched the hero and heroine were dancing Gangnam Style. The tradition survives, and the young crowd surely has come back with laughter and joy.
Solo, Indonesia, 2013