KUCHING: A musical theatre inspired by one of Sarawak’s most enduring legends, ‘Kesuma Santubong’, will take centre stage at the Balai Budaya, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Sarawak Branch on December 27 and 28.
Presented by Persatuan Seni Kreatif Sifar Sarawak (SIFAR), the production is scheduled to begin at 8:00 pm on both nights and promises an emotional and artistic exploration of Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.
Written and directed by Jamshari Saili, ‘Kesuma Santubong’, reimagines the legendary tale of Puteri Santubong and Puteri Sejinjang through a modern theatrical lens, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary performance elements.
According to SIFAR, the musical theatre is not merely an entertainment piece but a journey that carries moral and educational messages suitable for audiences of all ages.
“One of the highlights of the production lies in its musical composition, which combines revived Sarawak folk songs with newly composed pieces by rising local talent, Fitri Jeff.
“We want to ensure that our folk song heritage does not fade away. With Fitri Jeff’s fresh touch, we are blending traditional and contemporary elements to make this work resonate with modern audiences without compromising its historical aesthetic,” it said in its statement.
SIFAR added that the production aims to inject new life into the Santubong and Sejinjang legend through poetic melodies, strong vocal performances and evocative musical arrangements that reflect the beauty of Sarawak’s culture.
SIFAR Chairman, Dr Suffian Haji Jalet, previously had expressed the association’s intention to collaborate with DBP Sarawak Branch to realise the production.
The initiative has also received support from the Sarawak Arts Council (MSS), reflecting the state’s encouragement of efforts to revitalise local performing arts.
Established in 2006, SIFAR is an active creative arts association dedicated to promoting theatre and elevating Sarawak’s cultural arts.
To date, it has produced more than 20 theatre performances and has won the Sarawak-level ‘Festival Teater Malaysia’ four times, as well as the national title twice.
The performance is open to the public with free admission. However, seating is limited and members of the public are advised to arrive early.
More information on SIFAR and its activities can be found on the association’s official Facebook page.
