"THE LEGEND" Asep Sunandar. sunarya

Asep Surnarya : This is the great Dalang himself. Asep has had one of the greatest influences in the modern state of the Wayang Golek. Asep has been responsible for bringing back the popularity. He has incorporated modern influences with clowns that stick out there tongues and heads that explode. while he has kept many of the old traditions alive he has also brought in his own special sense of entertainment. He has made the performances entertaining as well as educational. You may find out more about Asep from Mimi Herberts book "Voices of the Puppet Master" . This book may be ordered through Amazon. You may also watch his son perform on the DVD we offer for sale in our 'Main Store'

Here Asep, myself and Dadan enjoying some relaxed time in Asep's house. This Misma is a stunning piece that Asep has used in a number of his performances. Asep likes to get into the character he is playing and has made many changes to the details on his puppet. If you ever get a chance to obtain one of the rare puppets that Asep carves himself do so!! He has a number of favorites and they are the finest puppets I have ever seen. they come to life when he works his magic with them. Each puppet must be used in a manner to be consistent with with the carvings and character. Asep is also an excellent host with a great sense of humor.

Carvers with the rough puppet forms.

There are different artists for each type of Wayang Golek puppet. They come from the local villages and work during the week then return home to the family on the weekends. Big Knife!!! The artists will often stay at the home of Barnas and his wife while they work on the Wayang Golek Puppets.

Unfinished heads ready for painting.

Painters sitting on the floor painting the Wayang Golek puppets.

Dancers with most of the faces painted ready for the dress and beads.