04/16/2026
Live Streaming Event this Saturday (4/18): Balinese Music and Shadow Puppetry, 5pm
The Bucknell University Gamelan Ensemble presents: “The Defeat of Mayadanawa”
Accompanied by the music of a traditional Indonesian gamelan orchestra, Balinese wayang kulit (shadow puppet theatre) plays are directed by a master dalang who brings to life stories from Bali’s mythological past with ornately carved leather puppets. Showcasing the dalang’s virtuosity as a puppeteer, vocalist, entertainer, and social critic, these legendary tales provide commentary on today’s world: Saturday’s performance chronicles the fall of a famously narcissistic Balinese tyrant, and explores the social and ecological effects of authoritarianism.
We are fortunate that the famed Balinese artist I Nyoman Catra will be joining us as the dalang, and that one plot line concerning the poisoning of Bali's waterways will feature custom puppets representing waterborne pathogens, designed by Professor Austin Wadle and their Environmental Engineering students.
Emphasizing action, drama, and humor, and featuring an intricate musical accompaniment provided by the Bucknell Gamelan Ensemble, this entertaining event is appropriate for all ages. It is a rare opportunity to experience this art form live on campus—don't miss it!
Time: Saturday April 18th, 5pm
Location: Rooke Recital Hall in the Sigfried Weis Music Building (NOT the Weis Center)
Free of charge, ADA accessible.
Live Stream Link: https://www.youtube.com/
