Ramayana Ballet @ Prambanan

This open-air theatrical performance has been performing since 1990.

More than 250 artists are performing twice weekly during the dry season at the open air stage besides the Prambanan temple.

We were lucky to visit Prambanan Complex on a weekend, and there are still seats available.

We were luckier when we were granted access to the back stage to meet the artists preparing for the performance.

The performers doubled as make-up artists and did their own make-ups.

They were so used to performance the character and it takes less than 15 minutes to complete the make-up.

There was no fancy dress room. The backstage dressing room has only basic amenities.

Audiences get into the theater by 7:30pm, and the show ends on 9:30pm.

I have seen the similar dance in Bali, the highlight is when Hanoman is about to be burned alive, but the monkey burn down Rhawana’s kingdom.

You could see the Prambanan temple was in the backdrop. If you are not a fan of theatrical performance, you can buy the cheaper ticket (not the VIP).