Jauk

This very demanding classical solo dances of a demon warrior dates from the 18^th century. Jauk has its origin in a traditional play in which all the dancers, wearing fearsome raksasa masks, enact episodes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata epics in the old Kawi language.

This masked pantomime is danced in the legong technique, similar to the baris in style, but more flamboyant and violent. The troupe generally appears in a group of up to six dancers, sometimes together with Rangda. You often see the jauk precede the baris, followed by perhaps a topeng, these are all very commonly staged together.

The jauk dancer’s ghost like mask is colored a violent red, or sometimes white, with thick black moustache, bulging zombie like eyes, and an eerie smile. As his whole face is covered by a leering mask, the jauk dancer must convey his emotions solely through his movement and gestures.

Also characteristic of the costuming are gloves with long nails and high headdresses with colorful pompoms and tessels. The demon king’s long transparent fingernails flutter incessantly to a pelegongan orchestra. Though of sinister appearance, the raksasa are usually friendly and the dance is mischievous and high spirited.