Aesthetical Transformation of Ramayana Performing Arts in Indonesia and Thailand

Over the years, the methods of preserving traditional performing arts have undergone a transformation in many states of Southeast Asia. In that, the performing art societies in Indonesia and Thailand have also made a shift in their conservation strategy from organizing the performing arts as a sacred rite with few participants to massive shows to entertain bigger audiences. This research intended to review the role of Maecenas (art protector) in enforcing the existence of Ramayanaperforming arts in three destinations in Indonesia and Thailand, namely Uluwatu’s Kecak Ramayana in Bali and Prambanan’s RamayanaBallet in Central Java, both located in Indonesia, and Khon Theater in Bangkok, Thailand. The research used a qualitative descriptive method with a functional theory approach. Data were collected through interviews, observation, and document review, following which they were analysed through interpretation. The result of the research showed that the aesthetical transformation of Ramayana performing arts in Indonesia and Thailand is determined by three factors, namely locality, time, and management. Keywords: performing arts, Ramayana, art protector, conservation