The Fugue of Tjebolang

1814. Central Java. In the palace of Surakarta, Prince Anom is suffocating under colonial oppression and the fossilized rituals of the court. He challenges his father, the sultan, who has scolded him about his debauched lifestyle. “I will show you, Father, that the excesses of my life will lead me one day to the science of happiness.” Thereupon, he summons three court poets who compose an ancient tale to entrance its audience and awaken them to unreason. The Fugue of Tjebolang is a playful adapted excerpt from the great epic of Java, The Surat Centhini, known for its combination of magical and mythical heritages.