Zhao Si Anak Yatim (The Orphan of Zhao): A Contemporary Bangsawan Performance Structure

Abstract

This investigation is in the context of my continuous learning and research on the art of Bangsawan with Rahman B. between 2000 and 2018. This is the period when Bangsawan experienced another important step in its development in Malaysia through the establishment of Istana Budaya, which led to the use of sophisticated technology in its production. This period also saw the introduction of the Semarak Bangsawan project, which has been offering monthly Bangsawan performances since 2007 to date. In my previous study on Bangsawan, I highlighted nine fundamental aspects of contemporary Bangsawan. This paper specifically focuses on performance structure, one of the nine conventions applied in a 2018 Bangsawan production titled Bangsawan Zhao Si Anak Yatim (The Orphan of Zhao). Through the design of the practice-led research, I defined a contemporary approach by revealing not only current visual elements in the performance, but also the theme and idea of the story, which is unusual for a traditional art form. While the structure of the performance remained true to the traditional framework of Rahman B., the visuals, the essence of the story as well as the interpretation were developed through my contemporary thinking. The performances have shown how various elements of the Bangsawan tradition can be successfully received/modified in a contemporary socio-political context. Moreover, a creative activity is an important work that has real social relevance and becomes part of performance history itself.