Topeng, an historical theatrical art form of Bali, is a mesmerizing drama of masked dance, music, mime and comedy. It is believed to have originated in A.D. 840 and perhaps earlier, based on the stories and genealogy found in ancient palm-leaf manuscripts known as 'lontar". The performance celebrates the mythology and folklore of the island, heroism of a kingdom or clan, and its relevance to the present society, with the characters reflecting the social structure and circumstances. In the following article, I Wayan Dibia presents the history, role and a description of the various forms of this performing art, and speculates on its future.
