KUALA LUMPUR – Seni Reog is a tradition that originates in Ponorogo, East Java, and is practiced by communities of Javanese descent in Johor.
The centrepiece of the Reog tradition is the majestic Singa Barong mask, which depicts a lion’s head elaborately decked with peacock feathers.
Other prominent figures in a Reog performance are valiant and playful Bujang Ganong masked dancers and alluring jathilan dancers on woven horses. A Reog performance is accompanied by a musical ensemble consisting of gong, kenong, gendang, tipong, angklung and slompret.
Meanwhile, Manora, also known as Nora Chatri, is a folk dance-drama tradition practised by the Thai community in Kelantan, Kedah and Penang, as well as throughout southern Thailand.
A Manora performance incorporates stylised dance, singing, comedy, and drama. Manora is traditionally performed on special occasions, such as Buddhist temple ceremonies, community gatherings including weddings, as well as to celebrate Thai festivals such as Loy Krathong and Songkran.
In Kelantan, there has been mutual influence among the traditions of Manora and Mak Yong. Manora in Kelantan incorporates Kelantanese music and dialogue in Kelantanese dialect.
Dance movements are characterised by backward-bent fingers and outstretched arms, alternating subtle and sudden gestures that are said to reflect those of a mythical bird. The opening dance is followed by a lakon (dramatic sequence), during which various stories are performed by the principal dancer, a pair of clowns and supporting actors.
The highlights of the performances presented by Pusaka were captured by The Vibes’ photographer AZIM RAHMAN. – The Vibes, September 20, 2022
