Performing Arts /Contents

Mak Yong as ritual

Ghulam-Sarwar Yousof

A ritual Mak Yong performance is more elaborate than that staged for entertainment, combining shamanism, feasting the spirits and dance theatre. It reflects the deep, mystical significance of Mak Yong's stories and dances, and its original aim to serve as a conduit to the spirit world. Ritual performances are enacted for spiritual healing, to pay homage to a teacher and for the graduation of a performer.

  • Information in the full article includes
  • The spiritual performance
  • Opening night
  • Culmination of the performance
Cik Ning

The late Cik Ning was a leading Mak Yong performer in the 1980s.