Discipline of the Body Art of Puppeteer (Study of Dalang Soleh Adi Pramono)

Abstract

This study examines the practice of body discipline in the masked puppeteer Dalang Soleh Adi Pramono, a modern figure who values discipline, where the body is the most crucial aspect of the process. A disciplined body produces individuals who demonstrate responsibility and dedication. Discipline entails fulfilling all responsibilities willingly, rather than being compelled by external forces. The research employs a qualitative approach with a post-structuralist approach. The analysis employs Michel Foucault’s theory of body discipline, with data collection through observation, interviews, and document studies. The research findings indicate that body discipline involves not coercing the will of others, but rather it is the execution of one’s own will through the power of knowledge possessed by Soleh. Foucault argues that the puppeteer’s body discipline extends beyond mere physical skills, encompassing mechanisms that regulate the body independent of power dominance. Keywords: art, body discipline, puppet mask puppeteer