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Malang teens find haven from loneliness and abuse in theatre group
A nonprofit theatrical group Malang offers a safe haven for channeling emotions.
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Joyful performance: Members of Kuwalisi Kendo Kenceng perform in a November 2019 show at Rona theater in East Java. (Kuwalisi Kendo Kenceng/Courtesy of Sigit Priyo Utomo)
M
ay 20 was an unusually somber day in Malang, East Java, as heat and humidity accompanied heavy rain during a visit to Kuwalisi Kendo Kenceng. In the small studio located in the city’s Lowokwaru district, 10 of the theatrical group’s members were enjoying each other’s company as they ate fried tofu and tempe mendoan, thinly sliced, battered and fried tempeh.
The group has promoted inclusiveness since its founding in 2006 by Sutak Wardhiono, welcoming anyone who wishes to join the group. Its members say the group’s mission is to be a second home, a haven where members can share their life stories and express their feelings through traditional Ludruk theater.
Sutak is more than just the group’s founder. He is also the playwright and theatrical director, whose works mostly focus on mothers.
"There are a lot of stories to tell about mothers because their stories are always sentimental. They have an important role too," said Sutak, whose long white hair lends him an air of a guru. He is also the oldest member of the community, which is made up of teenagers and middle-aged artists.
Sutak's works have won various awards from the Malang administration, cementing his position as one of the city’s best performing artists. Certificates acknowledging his contributions to the local arts scene can be seen displayed on the walls of the group’s studio.
Kuwalisi Kendo Kenceng aims to give new life to Ludruk, a theatrical art performed by dancers and comedians that has its origins in East Java. The genre often presents stories of everyday themes, like independence.
"Ludruk has its distinct structure. The opening is always a dance number, followed by the main plot. In our show, however, the story kicks off right from the beginning," said Sigit Priyo Utomo, one of the group’s more senior members at the age of 42. He added that it took him years to get to know every member of the community and what they had been through.
