Events
Mahakarya at Borobudur
The Aksobya open air theatre of Borobudur hosts a very special Javanese dance event once each year in June.
The Mahakarya is the story behind the conception of the temple through to the construction, interweaving the stories of the Saliendra dynasty and local life of the 8th Century.
Ramayana Ballet at Prambanan
Based on an epic Hindu poem, the story of model king Rama was adapted to become an important local dance, encompassing the Javanese style, culture and music. Whilst the story originated in India, the Javanese version is truly representative of the local art and culture.
In the evenings, this ballet comes to life, enacted by over 200 professional dancers and musicians on an open air stage that takes advantage of the Prambanan Temples as a backdrop.
Sumunaring Abhayagiri at Ratu Boko
A contemporary piece of Javanese dance, the Sumunaring Abhayagiri, is performed at the Ratu Boko archeological site and tells the story of a royal family in a spectacular setting.
Hundreds of performers tell the tale of the adventures of two princely brothers, and their interactions with the local Boko community. The innate Javanese wisdom of the elders shines throughout, and the concept understanding one’s natural place in the world is explored.
Waisak Day
A major festival in the Buddhist Calendar, Waisak day celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha Siddharta Gautama. Borobudur is a central meeting point for Buddhists from all over Indonesia, and around the world on this auspicious day held every year, on a full moon in either April or May each year.
Tawur Agung - The Eve of Nyepi
Every year Prambanan comes to life with Tawur Agung, an important and beautiful Hindu ritual held on the eve of Nyepi in which the evil spirits are scared away by a ceremony of offerings, blessings and ritual.