Ponorogo Regency has many original arts, one of which is traditional art which is similar to Reog, namely Kucingan art. After it was rarely displayed, residents in Babadan District held performances of arts that have existed since time immemorial.
This Kucingan art is actually similar to Reog Ponorogo, but the Kucingan art only uses a Barongan or tiger head mask, without the presence of a peacock, like Reog. Meanwhile, the musical accompaniment is also the same as Reog Ponorogo.
In this art there is also the figure or dancer Bujang Ganong. The performance shown highlights the cleverness carried out by Bujang Ganong who nosy teases the barongan who is resting. Because of his behavior, the barongan forced him to chase him.
This Kucingan art performance is not just entertainment for the community, but also a form of preserving Ponorogo’s original culture and arts.
“This is a form of effort to preserve the art of Kucingan, which is currently very rarely played.” said Juwaini, Chair of the Committee.
He continued, Juwaini added that with this Kucingan art performance, it is hoped that the community will know and be able to enjoy this art which is quite unique.
“This is a form of consistency among residents in preserving culture. “This activity is also to give appreciation to artists, especially Reog and Kucingan,” he concluded. Not everyone can play the art of Kucingan, especially when players have to be able to play the Barongan head mask which is quite heavy with the strength of their teeth. Adv/Ptr
