Javanese Wayang Kulit, Shadow-Puppet Theater of Indonesia

Performed by:

Ki Purbo Asmoro, dhalang

Accompanied by full Javanese gamelan orchestra

Featuring members of Mayangkara (Solo, Java) and Gamelan Kusuma Laras (New York City)

With English translations provided live by Kathryn Emerson

Welcoming music will start 20 minutes before showtime

This one-night-only performance allows New York City audiences the rare opportunity to experience a traditional Javanese shadow-puppet play, featuring one of the most exciting and renowned artists performing today. Ki Purbo Asmoro combines the skill of a supreme master with the voice of a poet and the energy of a rock star. His performances often have audiences of several thousand in Java, where he is known for his ability to present ancient stories with contemporary nuance and topical humor. Javanese wayang kulit, or traditional shadow puppet theater, is one of the world’s great theatrical traditions. The three-hour performance will include an informal atmosphere allowing audiences to move around and see the performance from both sides of the kelir or shadow screen.

Co-sponsored with the Consulate General of Indonesia, New York; Cakra, Inc.; and Gamelan Kusuma Laras

This program is made possible in part by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

This program is part of Asia Society's ongoing initiative Creative Voices of Muslim Asia, supported by the Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art.

Can't make it to this program? Tune into AsiaSociety.org/Live at 8:00 pm ET for a free live video webcast.