Update from Fulbright recipient James Hesla

In September, TDPS PhD candidate James Hesla headed to Indonesia to research Balinese clown theater and traditional masked dance on a Fulbright grant for the 2013-2014 year.

In September, TDPS PhD candidate James Hesla headed to Indonesia to research Balinese clown theater and traditional masked dance on a Fulbright grant for the 2013-2014 year. (He was featured in the Diamondback in August 2013.) He is studying the role of satirical commentary in clowning and how this commentary reflects the realities of audience experiences. This work examines the intersection between performance art, history, and politics.

James has sent an update on his research after his first few months in Bali. He sends these photos of a Topeng dance performance and says:

"These are from a couple different funerals. A funeral is a long involved process for Balinese. They cremate their dead in a very elaborate ceremony. This is followed by a funeral or memorial-type ceremony at the temple, which includes gamelan, a topeng (masked dance) performance, and a shadow puppet performance, all happening more or less simultaneously. How does a shadow puppet performance work during the day, you might ask? It is strictly a spiritual thing, and they do not use a screen or a light (since the sun is shining overhead). Instead, there is a string drawn between two sticks to indicate the presence of a screen for the shadows. There is also a guy on a very loud PA system reading from sacred hindu texts, and a group of priests performing various rituals on a high platform. You can see this in one of the photos. It is wrapped in bright yellow fabric in the left side of the photo."

The masked performer enteres from between the curtain in a series of different masks. James says that the performance is complex and he is still learning what it all means.

Topeng Pajegan performance at the temple in Batubulan village

Kodi performance

Topeng Pajegan performance in the temple at Singapadu village

Left: Topeng Lemah performed as part of a child's first birthday celebration in Singapadu village

Right: Women waiting outside the temple to pray and proffer offerings in Penarungan village

The Dancer's table where he dresses and then prays prior to a performance in Tophati village

James also sent us some videos:

Above: Two videos of topeng pajegan (masked dance) performance

Above: Wayang lemah (daytime shadow puppet performance)

Besides this research, he has been enjoying the natural beauty of Indonesia, hanging out with his son by the pool, chasing frogs out of his house, and surfing in the warm waters when he gets the chance.