Topeng Sidha Karya: A Balinese Mask Dance - Yavanika

TOPENG: SIDHA K ARYA 179dalem watu renggong (king of Gegel), I Nyoman Sedanapatih arya tangkas (minister of Watu Renggong), I Made Sidiarsi markandya (Hindu priest), I Ketut Kodiida sangkya, later called sidha karya (a Brahman from Keling), I KetutKodibondres wus (leaking fool, since his voice “leaks” into his nose), I Ketut Kodibondres sengap (out-of-control fool), I Ketut KodiPart I: Dance of Preliminary Characters(The presentation begins with a full component of four solo masks thatrepresent different stages in human life. A strong but refined male figure,topeng keras manis, dances first, followed by a more forceful andaggressive warrior, topeng keras agung. Next a comic, coarse male,topeng buduh/demung, bounds around the open space, and,finally, a frail old man, topeng tua, totters around the area, remindingviewers of their mortality as they watch youthful vigor give way to age.The performance takes place outside the Sidha Karya temple in the villageof Sidha Karya with viewers gathered on all sides. People from all over theFigure 1. Topeng tua,represents a frail oldman who reminds usof our mortality.(Photo: Kathy Foley)