Performing arts are an important part of human culture since ancient times. One of the performing arts that has developed since its inception is pantomime.

Although pantomime is not as well known as dance or theater, this performing art has become an integral part of culture in many countries around the world.

Mime comes from the Greek word "pantomimos" which means "all who imitate". At first, pantomime was a show that described a story or event with only body movements without using words.

Gunawan Tri Pamungkas, a Jember pantomime figure, explains pantomime as a performance without sound or most people interpret pantomime as a silent art.

"Because in the show itself it uses motion," explained Gunawan Tri Pamungkas.

Not only showing movement, modern pantomime has combined more complex techniques, including make-up and costumes, as well as incorporating music and sound effects as accompaniment to the show.

Modern pantomime also not only shows a story or event, but can also describe the feelings and emotions of the characters in the story. Therefore, according to Gunawan, the art of pantomime really helps children who don't have the courage to speak in public to be able to perform by presenting a motion show.

"So, apart from providing entertainment, children can also imagine," he said.

In teaching the art of pantomime there is still no teaching material curriculum that is applied. The pantomime lessons provided involve story ideas, theme determination, preparation, and practice. The exercises provided include motion exercises, facial expressions, the suitability of movements with music and readiness to appear.

Although pantomime is not as well known as other performing arts such as theater and dance, this performing art still has a lasting existence and continues to exist today.

Gunawan said that he was still optimistic that pantomime art could continue to develop because currently pantomime art has a much better quality than in the previous year. In addition, there are already communities that have participated in preserving this art by teaching children, especially children from schools in remote areas of Jember.

“More and more children are interested in learning pantomime. Currently, I have 20 students, this number has increased from the previous year," added Gunawan, who is often called Mas Gun.

In the midst of an increasingly sophisticated era, many prospective children of the nation have fallen into the world of technology by utilizing gadgets as play tools. If this continues, it will not only be pantomime art, but also the preservation of art and culture will only remain in name in the future.

Therefore, it is very necessary to have support from various parties to preserve the art of pantomime, both parents, schools and even the government.

"Schools should provide a special training room before an art festival event to attract children who have potential in the art of pantomime," he concluded.