Difference between Traditional and Modern Drama, Also Learn Their Characteristics and Examples!

Kapanlagi.com - In Indonesia, there are the terms traditional drama and modern drama. Although both are forms of performance, the difference between traditional and modern drama is quite clear.

For those who have watched both, the difference between traditional and modern drama can be immediately seen. However, this may not be realized by laypeople who do not study it at all.

Now, if you are curious about the difference between traditional and modern drama, along with their characteristics and examples, let's take a look at the following information.

1. Understanding Traditional and Modern Drama

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In general, there is an understanding of drama according to the Indonesian Dictionary (KBBI). First, drama is a composition of poetry or prose that is expected to depict life and character through behavior (role) or dialogue that is performed. Second, drama can be understood as a story, especially one involving conflict or emotion, which is specifically arranged for theater performances.

Despite the above understanding, drama is still divided into two types, namely traditional drama and modern drama. Both types of drama are well-known and frequently performed in Indonesia. Of course, there are several differences between traditional and modern drama that need to be known.

Traditional drama usually does not use a script for performance. Although there is, the script used is only a story framework and notes related to the performance. This is because the story in traditional drama mostly comes from historical stories, fairy tales, and everyday life.

Meanwhile, modern drama is drama that uses a script fully in the performance. Even in the rehearsal process, the script needs to go through dissection so that all performance elements understand the content of the script. After going through the dissection process, the director, actors, and the entire artistic team will find it easier to make agreements in determining the overall style and form of the performance.

2. Differences between Traditional and Modern Drama According to Characteristics

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Another important difference between traditional and modern drama that needs to be discussed is their characteristics. To be clearer, please see the points below.

1. Characteristics of Traditional Drama

- Traditional drama does not use a script.

- The dialogue and acting that occur are the result of improvisation by the players.

- Traditional drama performances prioritize the content and purpose of the art.

- The performers of traditional drama often interact with the audience.

- The basic story in traditional drama mostly comes from folklore, history, and everyday life.

- The story content is generally palace-centric or related to the king and/or royal family.

- Using regional languages according to the performance area.

- Usually held outdoors, such as in the yard, field, or other places.

- The musical accompaniment uses traditional musical instruments.

2. Characteristics of Modern Drama

- Using a script in its performance.

- The dialogue and acting are based on the drama script.

- The players must memorize the dialogue before the performance.

- The players must practice repeatedly before the performance.

- Usually, the story comes from everyday life.

- Performed not in connection with religious activities or certain community traditions.

- The performance is supported by relatively modern performance equipment.

3. Examples of Traditional and Modern Drama

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As explained above, there are many differences between traditional and modern dramas based on their understanding and characteristics. Furthermore, there is information about examples of each drama so that you can easily understand.

1. Examples of Traditional Drama

- Ketoprak. Ketoprak is one example of traditional drama in Indonesia. This performance art from Surakarta, Central Java usually tells stories about the kingdom.

- Mamanda. Mamanda is a traditional drama from Banjar, South Kalimantan. Usually, this performance is presented to teach morality in the Banjar Kuala, Banjar Hulu, and Malay dialects.

- Randai. Randai is also one of Indonesia's traditional dramas originating from Minangkabau. As a performance, this drama combines literature, martial arts movements, and music.

- Wayang. One of Indonesia's popular traditional dramas is wayang. Not only one, but there are many forms of wayang in this country, such as wayang kulit, wayang golek, wayang suket, wayang menak sasak, and so on.

- Lenong. Lenong was once very popular in the 90s because it was often shown on national TV. Lenong itself is a drama performance presented in the Betawi dialect.

2. Examples of Modern Drama

- "Opera Kecoa" by Nano Riantiarno. The script was first performed by Teater Koma in 1985 at Graha Bhakti Budaya, Taman Ismail Marzuki, Jakarta.

- "Sidang Susila" by Ayu Utami and Agus Noor. The script was first performed by Teater Gandrik in 2008 at Taman Ismail Marzuki, Jakarta.

- "Kisah Perjuangan Suku Naga" by WS Rendra. The script was first performed by Bengkel Teater in 1975 at Teater Terbuka Taman Ismail Marzuki, Jakarta.

So, KLovers, that's an explanation of the differences between traditional and modern dramas along with their characteristics and examples that you need to know.

(kpl/gen/ans)