The Ramayana- new dance photos

all female gamelan orchestra

 "The Spirit of Women" is the name of this community dance troupe.
Non-professionals, I had my doubts but I was pleasantly 
surprised.  The orchestra was not up to snuff but the dancing was good.  Best of all , Kadek the 22 year old daughter of Ina and Nyoman 
(the family compound where I  live) had a major dancing role.

notice the lovely frangipani blossoms

 It is unusual for there to be a primarily female troupe, and  it is unique for the orchestra to be  all female. It is common for males to play female roles (as in many traditional cultures, including Shakespeare and Japanese theatre), but uncommon for women to play the lead male roles. (although "Puck" is often played by a girl)

 is

 This is Kadek, she is playing Rama's brother, Laksamana

Kadek studies dance at the university.  I have often watched her and friends put on music and do some contemporary moves.  I look forward to Dee and Kadek meeting.

Sita

Sita and Rama (played by a female)

Sita and Rama

Laksamana tries to protect Sita

 This is a story in "The Ramayana" a Hindu epic tale.
It has all the theatricality of an opera.  Lots of battles, revenge, gods and goddesses and of course love.

demonic Maricha who desires Sita

King Rahwana of Alengka kingdom

they plot to kidnap Sita

Brothers Rama and Laksamana plot to return Sita

 

the bird Jatayu ,a friend of Rama's father is killed by Maricha trying to save Sita

Rama sends Jatayu to heaven

The monkey warrior arrives

with frenetic energy

Rama commands him to save Sita

he enters the kingdom where Sita is being held

palace dancers of Alengka kingdom

demonic soldiers try and defeat Hanoman

the monkey warrior is triumphant

travelin' woman