demon play

The term "demon play" refers to a primitive dance drama that originated from shamanistic rituals. In these performances, the forces of good are depicted as exorcising the forces of evil. This ancient form of theatre is still performed in various ways across Asia. A notable element found in demon plays, which also appears in later Western theatre, is the use of clowns, often depicted as deformed, to humorously imitate more serious characters.1

Demons themselves are often described as evil spirits, though the term originally meant any supernatural being that influenced a person's character. While commonly associated with malevolence, some ancient beliefs viewed these spirits as benevolent or ambivalent, depending on the circumstances. Malevolent beings, including demons and fallen angels, are believed to hinder human well-being by provoking sin and causing calamities such as famine, disease, and natural disasters.23