Mak Yong: Ancient folk theatre
Early 20th century costume of a male lead character.
Mak Yong is the oldest living example of Malay dance theatre and is the least subject to external influences. Developed from animistic beliefs and shamanistic activity, Mak Yong's origins are linked to divine sources. It is an arabesque of rituals, song, dance, stories and music, once performed only by women. Mak Yong in its original form is now rarely performed in its Kelantanese homeland for religious and economic reasons.
- Information in the full article includes
- Origins and history
- Conventions
- Performance elements
- The performance