In
Bali, masks are considered sacred and are revered
as such. The best ones are traditionally carved
on auspicious days and the dancers who wear them
are believed to be possessed by the spirits of
the masks. Characters can be identified from the
shape of the features; noble characters always
wear full, refined masks; while evil is represented
by bulging eyes and garish colors.
The character a silent, but communicate using
complex gestures of the hand, head and body. The
story lines usually follow the popular myths,
or episodes from history.
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