Ondel-Ondel: Looking for a Theoretical Explanation

Abstract

<p><em>Ondel-ondel</em>, initially believed to have fearsome characteristics and magical ability to ward evil spirits off, is still performed in various areas in Jakarta on particular occasions. <em>Ondel-ondel</em> was originally an ancient artwork named <em>barongan</em>. This research aims to seek a theoretical explanation of the <em>ondel</em>-<em>ondel</em> phenomenon by examining the relationship between the media and local culture. Several defining features of postmodernism are incorporated to reframe <em>ondel-ondel</em> as a form of entertainment, along with the interplay between the tradition and technology-assisted media. This paper seeks to reveal the actual meaning of <em>ondel-ondel</em> for locals and non-locals during their encounters with <em>ondel-ondel</em>. The research found (1) that<em> ondel-ondel</em> is an attempt to reinvent the way people seek entertainment in the face of changes brought about by modernity and (2) that the presence of<em> ondel-ondel</em> communicated in the virtual space generates digital traces in the form of messages contributing to the creation and the re-creation of <em>ondel-ondel</em> itself. </p>