Memories of My Body

Juno is the central figure whose heightened bodily awareness doubles as a metaphor for reading others’ truth. Raised in poverty in a Banyumas village, he learns lengger and begins examining gender and desire. His life is marked by trauma and guardianship, pushing him toward a path of self-discovery and belonging within the lengger world and beyond.

A professional boxer who orders a traditional wedding costume for someone close to him. He develops a complicated, intimate bond with Juno, highlighting tenderness amid hardship. His loss in the boxing ring underscores the financial and social pressures that shape his life and choices.

The dance teacher who rescues Juno, teaching him lengger and guiding his artistic and personal growth. He plays a pivotal role in shaping Juno's understanding of performance, gender, and belonging within the community.

A relative who takes Juno in after the upheaval of his early life and trauma. His eventual death marks a turning point that propels Juno to seek new beginnings in Jati village and within the lengger troupe.

A regent candidate whose political ambitions rely on cultural performances to sway voters. His plans are disrupted when Warok selects Juno as gemblak, complicating the political calculations and community dynamics.

A powerful figure who uses her influence to protect political interests. She recoils at the prospect of public scandal and actively seeks to remove Juno and the lengger troupe to preserve the regent's image.

Troupe Leader who forms a close bond with Juno by choosing him as gemblak. Warok’s involvement challenges social norms and introduces a personal, intimate dynamic into the public and political spheres of the village.

Aunt who takes Juno in after his father’s departure, playing a crucial but complicated role in his early life and eventual move toward independence. Her path intersects with Juno’s trauma and resilience.

A younger version of Juno whose memories and experiences foreshadow the adult journey. His presence anchors the history of trauma and longing that drives Juno’s later choices.

A member of the lengger troupe whose artistry contributes to the group's identity. The Dancer embodies the craft and communal life that both sustains and challenges the troupe.

A member of the lengger circle, part of the troupe’s social world. Arum’s presence helps illustrate the broader community around Juno and the group’s functioning.

A figure within the lengger house who anchors the troupe’s domestic life and traditions, contributing to the atmosphere of ritual and discipline that shapes the performers.