The Mak Yong is an ancient dance drama, an all-inclusive theatre performance combining dance, opera, drama, comedy, vocal and instrumental music, gestures and elaborate costumes. Their make-up is very distinct especially around the eyes.
Experts believe that Mak Yong appeared well before the Islamization of the country. The theatre is believed to have originated from Kelantan several centuries ago as a popular court entertainment. Mak Yong is also performed for ritual purposes related to healing practices.
A typical Mak Yong performance opens with an offering followed by dances, acting and music as well as spontaneous monologues and dialogues. A single story can be presented over several consecutive nights in a series of three-hour performances. In the traditional village setting, the performances are held on a temporary stage constructed of wood and palm leaves.
The dance in Mak Yong performance is divided into four sections: namely, sitting, kneeling, squatting, standing and walking. The lead dancer and the supporting dancers must be able to sing the haunting melody.
Except for three men, all the characters in a Mak Yong are played by women. It is the main dancer, called Mak Yong who develops the story, which is usually from ancient Malay folk tales with its royal characters, divinities and clowns.The Mak Yong is supported by a cast of 16 performers and backed by a traditional music ensemble consisting of gongs, drums and rebab. Music and melody add colour to the dance.
Mak Yong has been preserved until the present day thanks largely to oral transmission, which requires long years of training. However, in today’s society, few young people are willing to commit to such rigorous apprenticeships. As a result, this important tradition is undergoing steady decline.
By: Chuah Kar Wooi (134185)
B. Ed. (TESL)
Group 21
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