MALAY MAK YONG

Mak Yong(6) dance is a dance drama combining with theatre performance, opera and comedy. It is believed that Mak Yong well before the Islamic traders set foot in the country.  It was performed as a royal theatre under the direct patronage of the Kelantan Sultanate until the 1920s. A typical Mak Yong performance opens with an offering followed by dances, acting and music as well as improvised monologues and dialogues.  

Most roles are performed by women and the stories are based on ancient Malay folk tales with royal characters, which is about the legendary princes and princesses from tales old folks tales that had been handed down by word of mouth by the people. Mak Yong is also associated with rituals in which shamans attempt to heal through song, trance-dance and spirit possession. Their make-up is very distinct especially around the eyes. In today’s society, few young people are willing to commit to such rigorous apprenticeships.

The attire is differ according to the role in Mak Yong dance:

Pak Yong  

Ø  The attire of Pak Yong is tight-fitting clothes and pants made from satin cloth matched with long samping cloth and a belt.
Ø  At the chest, there will be decorated sibarlayan (border) or fine colorful beads like the collar or flying clothes.
             
Mak Yong

Ø  The dancer will wear silk kebaya with gold and diamond brooch.
Ø  The dancer also will wear pemeles , golden hand thread golden foot bangles and rings given by the king. 

Mak Yong dance(7)