Dalang

Dalang is a traditional puppeteer and storyteller in Wayang, an Indonesian shadow puppet theater. The dalang operates intricately carved leather puppets behind a translucent screen, using a metal rod or sticks to bring characters to life through synchronized movements and narration. He is responsible for narrating the story, managing dialogue, sound effects, and music, often improvising to adapt to the unfolding performance. As a cultural custodian, the dalang preserves and communicates complex moral, spiritual, and historical lessons, making the performance both an artistic and educational experience deeply rooted in Indonesian heritage.