Proceedings of Jogjakarta Communication Conference (JCC)
Vol. 4 No. 1 (2026): The 7th Jogjakarta Communication Conference (JCC)

Managing and Negotiating Cultural Identity: The Adaptive Dynamics of Jaranan Thik in Ponoragan Society

Oki Cahyo Nugroho (Universitas Muhammadiyah Ponorogo)
Widodo Muktiyo (Unknown)
Sri Hastjarjo (Unknown)
Drajat Tri Kartono (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study investigates how Jaranan Thik negotiates cultural identity and adapts communicatively within the Reyog-centered cultural hierarchy of Ponorogo, East Java, Indonesia. Grounded in Cultural Identity Theory and Co-Cultural Communication Theory, it analyzes how a marginalized traditional art community strategically navigates identity through symbolic alignment, structural adjustment, and engagement with institutional actors. Employing a qualitative case study design, the research draws on in-depth interviews with performers, cultural leaders, and community representatives, complemented by documentation and direct observation of performances. The findings identify four key patterns: symbolic assimilation via shared mythological references and terminology; the regulated reframing of trance practices to reshape public perception; religious and institutional affiliations to strengthen moral and structural legitimacy; and aesthetic innovation to attract younger audiences. These adaptive strategies indicate that Jaranan Thik does not merge into the dominant Reyog tradition but instead negotiates recognition through selective alignment while maintaining its essential ritual foundations. By situating the analysis within localized cultural hierarchies, the study broadens the scope of Cultural Identity Theory and Co-Cultural Communication Theory and underscores communicative agency as vital to cultural sustainability.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

jcc

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

Proceedings of Jogjakarta Communication Conference (JCC) is the media to publish conference scientific articles received from the annual conference JCC started on 2019. This proceeding also published annually with the scope of communication science related to various topics Related topic with ...