SENI PERTUNJUKAN TRADISIONAL (JAWA) ERA REFORMASI

Abstract

The aim of this study is to obtain a more in-depth explanation regarding the prob- lems in the life of classical Javanese performance from a sociological-artistic angle, in the face of changes that have occurred in the environment during the post Orde Baru era.   Nevertheless, in order to gain a clear picture about the changes during each era, this study also covers the life of classical Javanese performance during the two previous era, namely the era preceding the Orde Baru and the Orde Baru era itself.  This problem includes a general picture of the life of classical Javanese performance during these three periods, in particular at the time of this research. The next problem is concerned with the possibility of change occurring in the pat- tern of classical Javanese performances during the same period, and the nature of these new patterns, including which aspects, and with  what substance.   Likewise, to what extent are the aspects related to social change and  social phenomena re- flected in classical Javanese performance a response from the artist, in connection with preserving his existence.

In accordance with its goal, this study uses a sociological-artistic approach, from the  result of Arnold Hauser’s ideas in his book The Sociology of Art.   This ap- proach principally looks at the relation between a community and its art.  Classical Javanese performance is made up of a number of different elements, including its group, equipment, and audience.  Arnold Hauser explains that social changes in a given area will result in a unique artistic style, in accordance with the form of the community at that particular time.  An art form which in a certain period may be considered as a ritual art,  may have the potential to be used as a tool of propa- ganda by the authority or even emerge as a form of popular art.

Based on the results of the research, classical Javanese performance has a ten- dency  to  stand alone in each of the three eras, according to the changes in its environment.   During the era prior to the Orde Baru, classical Javanese was en- joyed mainly by the  agrarian community, who were influenced by arts from the court.   During the Orde  Baru era, performances were not only enjoyed by the agrarian community but also by the urban community as it spread to towns outside the court territory. At the present time, classical Javanese performances are coloured by government development policies and for  this reason are often used as a gov- ernment tool for conveying messages about  development.   In addition, during the Orde Baru era, other art forms began to penetrate and influence the form of clas- sical Javanese performance.  In the postOrde Baru era, its form has become more

open, as a result of the euphoria created by an excess of reformation, and it has become difficult to identify.  Furthermore, it is evident that audiences can no longer respond to the  moral messages conveyed in a classical Javanese performance.

 

Key words: classical Javanese performance, group, audience.