The Graduate Program in Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies (PSPSR) at Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM), in collaboration with CEMPALA and the Wayang Philosophy Study Center, successfully organized a Guest Lecture on Thursday, July 11, 2024. The event, held in the Auditorium on the 5th floor of the UGM Graduate School, explored the theme “Wayang as a Living Tradition: Legacy of the Past, Gift for the Future.”
The program commenced with an opening address by the Head of the PSPSR Doctoral Program, Dr. Budi Irwanto, S.I.P., M.A. This was followed by a moderated session led by Dr. Rr. Paramitha Dyah Fitriasari, M.Hum., featuring esteemed speakers: Prof. Sumarsam from Wesleyan University, Prof. Dr. Matthew Isaac Cohen from the University of Connecticut, and Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A. from the Performing Arts and Visual Arts Studies UGM Yogyakarta. The seminar attracted approximately 100 participants, including graduate students, faculty members, researchers, and wayang artists.
The seminar focused on the historical and technological aspects of wayang art. Prof. Sumarsam’s presentation delved into the history of wayang art, drawing from his forthcoming book scheduled for publication in October of this year. Prof. Dr. Matthew Isaac Cohen followed, exploring the duality inherent in wayang art. The final presentation by Dr. G.R. Lono Lastoro Simatupang, M.A., centered on “Screening Technologies: From Kelir to Screen,” examining the allure of technology in wayang performances and concluding with the remark: “If we understand the behavior of media event audiences, we will better navigate the future of performing arts.”
The audience’s enthusiasm was evident in the numerous questions posed to the speakers regarding wayang. This engaging discussion contributed to the preservation of Indonesia’s cultural heritage, particularly wayang art. It also highlighted the PSPSR UGM program’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals. The successful organization of this event epitomizes the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility towards achieving sustainable development. (AT)
