ABSTRACT
Through the example of Topeng dance-drama master I Ketut Rinda (1906–1985), this chapter explores how different versions of historical events are important for Balinese understandings of the past. Topeng performances demonstrate how genealogies, particularly royal ones, are connected to place. They also show how historical knowledge is changeable and adapted to different contexts. This process of change and adaptation is mediated by Topeng performers, who are participants in the processes of creating Babad or dynastic genealogies. Temples play a key role in mediating historical knowledge and so are closely related to Topeng and Babad .
