The Aesthetic of Modern Theatre in West Sumatra

Abstract

Modern West Sumatra theater which was born in Minangkabau’s cultural environment have the aesthetic diversity in accordance with a director’s artistic aesthetics. In conventional modern theater, its aesthetic orientations are Minangkabau customs and culture. The stories that are born always refer to the behavior of the Minangkabau a person through folklore and kaba-kaba that portray the values and norms of the Minangkabau  people.  Modern  contemporary theater  in West  Sumatra  reminds  the  audience  that  life is now more complex and requires extra awareness. Therefore it is possible that theater will be against the will of the audience. In conflict with the will of philosophers, politicians and economist. It could even be the opposite to the will of critics and scholars of aesthetics. Theater does not produce pleasure. Theatre is poison.

Keywords: Kaba-kaba and folklore