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'Petualangan Sherina' a lively, theatrical take on classic children's film
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Unlike a more subdued screen acting, a stage provided a platform for louder and bolder performances, which were appropriately delivered by the cast throughout the singing and dancing numbers in the 'Petulangan Sherina' (Sherina's Adventure) musical. (JP/Wienda Parwitasari)
S
eventeen years since the musical film Petulangan Sherina (Sherina's Adventure) was first released, an adaptation of the classic children's adventure film is revived on stage at the Teater Jakarta in Taman Ismail Marzuki over the weekend.
Unlike a more subdued screen acting, a stage provided a platform for louder and bolder performances, which were appropriately delivered by the cast through its singing and dancing numbers throughout Sept. 15 until 17.
The six-show run presented by the Jakarta Movement of Inspiration, also known as JKTMOVEIN, divided the young leads into two teams, each delivering three shows. The Jakarta Post viewed the performance led by Caecilia Laura as Sherina and Farell Irham Khairy as Sadam.
In line with the original film, the story follows young Sherina who uproots her life to a new city with her parents Mr. and Mrs. Darmawan (Raditio Permadi and Andrisa Artati) following her dad's new job in a plantation, owned by Aridiwilaga (Rafli Pradanto) and his wife (Kathlene Martini).
Little did Sherina know that her new adventure would not only connect her with surprising new friends but also face her up to unexpected enemies.
Read also: 'Petualangan Sherina' musical seeks to inspire new generation of kids
Laura's Sherina is a spirited and cheerful school girl, who hit the notes of her songs with high enthusiasm. Sherina and Sadam were enjoyable enough to watch together, as they were able to carry the two-hour-long performance with confidence.
While solid vocal and acting performances were delivered by the leads, it was the supporting cast that gave strength to the story, injecting excitement and vigor to the stage.
The pair of comical baddies, Mister (Zulfikar Maha P.) and Mastur (Ricky Alvano), delivered some of the most memorable lines while under the stressful command of their frustrated boss Pak Raden (Dimas Danang), as the three set out their less-than-stellar kidnap and ransom plan of Sherina and Sadam.
Another standout performance was delivered by actress Abby Galabby in her loud and evil Zus Natasya, who had cunningly set out to take over Ardiwilaga's land, which we later find out was all for a property development megaproject by her partner Kertarajasa (Rafiz Ari Nugraha).
The two dance at a presumed victory, delivering a saucy tango performance.
But the highlight of the play actually goes to the underdog Kertarajasa's office boy Ubay, played by Zaya Fadhlillah, who with his lithe, slapstick performance drew some of the biggest laughs and loud applause.
Nurul Susantono, who founded JKTMOVEIN, had earlier said she wanted the stage adaptation to bring a modern touch to make it relevant to today. This was brought on through comical remarks, including a wink at the popular app-hailing ride usage, something that was definitely not found in the original 2000 film.
Petualangan Sherina musical delivers a feel-good story, which would be particularly enjoyed by young audiences, who may also find themselves singing the catchy songs on the journey home from the theater. (asw)
