Performing Arts: Encyclopedia of Malaysia

Over the past two millennia indigenous elements as well as influences from a host of cultures and religions from both the East and the West have combined in interesting ways to shape Malaysian performing arts. While indigenous folk forms such as the shamanic Main Puteri or those related to storytelling have changed very little over the centuries, others have been transformed in diverse ways. At the same time new genres have come into being following contact with imported models or through the flowering of local genius. The interfusion of beliefs, elements of repertoire, performance techniques and so on have, over the centuries, resulted in the creation of new genres of theatre serving the traditional functions of ritual and entertainment as well as education over the centuries. This volume provides insights into not just the indigenous forms of performing arts of the Orang Ash, but also of the various other communities in Malaysia including those of Sabah and Sarawak. The traditional and modern performing arts are discussed in terms of their origins and characteristics, performance elements and structures, as well as functions within the communities in which they exist. Also included is the development of the Malay film industry and that of television dramas. Above and beyond the arts genres themselves, this volume discusses recent developments, such as the role played in the arts by religion, and by various academic institutions and organisations, in the teaching, research, reservation and conservation as well as promotion of the performing arts.