110-422 Indonesian Performance & Performativity

Formerly available as 110-084. Students who have completed 110-084 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

This subject is a survey of diverse performance styles in Indonesia through readings and audio-visual material. Discussion includes the cultural significance of performing arts, traditional arts in the modern context, and performativity and construction of identity through performance traditions. Students should develop an appreciation of the cultural diversity of Indonesia and the ability to critically assess descriptions and analyses made by anthropologists, ethnomusicologists, and sociolinguists among others. Students will gain experience playing gamelan music as a means of exploring Indonesian performance practice.

• acquire written communication skills through essay writing and seminar discussion;

• show attention to detail through essay preparation and writing;

• acquire time management and planning skills through managing and organising workloads for recommended reading, essay and assignment completion;

• acquire public speaking skills through tutorial and seminar discussion and class presentations;

• acquire critical thinking and analysis skills through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining strength of an argument;

• acquire research skills through competent use of the library, and other information sources and the definition of areas of inquiry and methods of research;

• be able to think in theoretical terms through lectures, tutorial discussions, essay writing and engagement in the methodologies of the humanites and social sciences.

Four reviews of 500 words each, 12.5% each (due throughout the semester), and one final research project of 2000 words (3000 words for fourth year/MA students) 50% (due during the examination period). The final research project also entails a separate written proposal (due mid-semester) and in-class presentation (end of semester), which are required but not assessed.

Materials supplied by the Institute.