SYMBOLIC MEANING AND FUNCTION OF THE TRADITIONAL PERFORMING ARTS REOG PONOROGO
Reog Ponorogo is one of the many traditional arts and culture in Indonesia. Reog performance art in Ponorogo has several versions. Starting from the versions of Wengker, Batarakahtong, and Bantarangain. This research focused on the traditional performing art of Reog Ponorogo version of Bantarangain. This study aims to (1) analyze the symbolic meaning in Reog Ponorogo performing arts, and (2) Reog Ponorogo performing arts functions in the current era. This research is qualitative research that uses an ethnographic approach. The data collection techniques used were passive participant observation techniques and in-depth interviews with Ponorogo community leaders and cultural experts. Selection of research subjects using snowball sampling. The data obtained are validated by the method of triangulation of data and sources. The data were analyzed using Spradley model research methods which include domain analysis, taxonomic analysis, compensation analysis, and cultural theme analysis. The results of this study show that (1) the symbolic meaning of Reog Ponorogo's performance art is the unyielding struggle to get what is desired which is interpreted in the form of Prabu Klana Sewandono's light iring struggle when he wants to edit Dewi Songgolangit from Kediri. The symbolic meaning is interpreted through costumes, performances, and dance movements in the performing arts. (2) Following the development of the era, this performing art has the functions of (a) community entertainment, (b) providing various moral guidelines that are good for the people of Ponorogo and, (c) community integration. This traditional performing art is usually performed at village cleanup events, wedding celebrations, Islamic holidays, prayers, and welcoming guests.
Symbolic Meaning and Function of Reog Ponorogo Performing Arts Batarangain Version