Roro Jonggrang: Reincarnation of Love
A New Dance Drama by Ramayana Ballet Purawisata – Yogyakarta’s Legendary Cultural Theater
From the team behind the iconic Ramayana Ballet Purawisata—Indonesia’s longest-running cultural performance with a 48-year legacy and MURI record—comes an all-new creation: “Re-Inkarnasi Cinta Roro Jonggrang” (Roro Jonggrang: Reincarnation of Love).
This mesmerizing Javanese dance-drama brings a different legend to life—one deeply tied to Prambanan Temple and the mysterious Durga statue inside it. Crafted with the same high artistic standards and accompanied by a live gamelan orchestra, this new show is a must-see cultural experience for both first-time visitors and returning fans of Javanese performing arts.
The Story – Between Love and Vengeance
The performance tells the powerful tale of Roro Jonggrang, a princess forced into a fateful agreement with Bandung Bondowoso, the man who conquered her kingdom. To avoid marriage, she demands he build a thousand temples in one night. When he nearly succeeds, she intervenes—and is cursed, turning her into stone.
What sets this retelling apart is its emotional depth: a focus on the conflict between love and betrayal, and how even in vengeance, love may still live on—waiting to be reborn.
The Prambanan Connection – See the Temple in a New Light
If you plan to visit Prambanan Temple, this performance adds rich layers of context. The Durga statue inside the main temple—often admired but not always understood—is believed to be Roro Jonggrang herself, cursed into stone.
After watching this show, your temple visit won’t just be visual—it will feel personal. You’ll walk through Prambanan with a deeper connection to its mythology, understanding the human emotions and choices behind its sacred stones.
What You’ll Experience
- A fully original dance-drama, created and staged by the acclaimed Ramayana Ballet Purawisata team.
- Elegant choreography, intricate costumes, and expressive storytelling rooted in Javanese classical dance.
- An awe-inspiring and tension-filled instrumental composition accompanying the performance.
- A mesmerizing live performance featuring the immersive sounds of a live gamelan orchestra.
- Performed in a semi-open-air amphitheater, surrounded by lush gardens and Joglo-style architecture.
- A story pamphlet is provided to help you follow the dramatic journey of love, betrayal, and fate.
- Complimentary bottled water is available for every guest.
- After the show, capture memorable photos with performers in their stunning traditional costumes.
- Convenient location near Malioboro, within the Mandira Baruga cultural complex—home to Tasneem Hotel and Smarak Event Hall.
Why Watch This Performance
- A fresh cultural offering – A new legend, new music, and new choreography from an award-winning dance company.
- Myth meets travel – Makes your trip to Prambanan more immersive and meaningful.
- Authentic and intimate – Performed by trained artists using real Javanese techniques, in a setting designed for connection.
- Produced by a MURI record-holding theater – The same cultural institution behind Indonesia’s most celebrated Ramayana Ballet.
Enhance Your Experience with a Javanese Royal Buffet Dinner
Make your night even more special with an authentic Javanese royal dinner before the performance.
- Enjoy a 100% halal-certified buffet, featuring local Indonesian dishes.
- Dine in an elegant Joglo-style setting with live gamelan music.
- Upgrade your experience by reserving a dinner + show package.
Enhance Your Experience
Optional Upgrades at the Venue
- Dinner Upgrade – Show-only ticket holders can upgrade onsite to enjoy a buffet dinner featuring authentic Javanese cuisine before the performance.
- Beverages – Fresh juices, coffee, tea, and non-alcoholic drinks are available for purchase separately.
- Exclusive Roro Jonggrang Souvenirs – Take home a piece of Javanese heritage with handcrafted batik, unique keepsakes, and Roro Jonggrang-themed merchandise.
Stay Right in the Heart of the Experience
For a seamless experience, stay at Tasneem Hotel Malioboro, located within the same cultural complex as the amphitheater. Managed by the same team behind the performance, the hotel is just a one-minute walk from the venue, tucked behind a charming restaurant in a serene garden setting.
No need to arrange transport—after an unforgettable evening of Javanese storytelling, take a peaceful stroll back to your room or relax in the garden. Discover authentic hospitality in Yogyakarta’s vibrant heritage district.
Things to Note
- Performances are typically held in the evening, starting around sunset and lasting approximately 2 hours.
- Refrain from flash photography or disruptive behavior during the show.
- Comfortable, modest attire is recommended for the semi-open-air cultural venue.

Be mesmerized by traditional Indonesian choreography, stunning costumes, and powerful stage presence.

Experience the magic, emotion, and unforgettable storytelling of the Ramayana Ballet at Purawisata.

Witness the dramatic performances and rich cultural heritage of the legendary Roro Jonggrang story.