'The songs take a modern approach, but the traditional instruments have their own character,' says Irena Taib (left), composer and music director of 'Dondang Dongeng'. Photo: Handout
Many of us grew up with Western fairytales an children's stories, from the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen to Aesop’s fables and Disney.
But how many of us are familiar with Malaysian folk tales?
Unfortunately, as musician/composer Melina William realised in a conversation with young friends, the answer for some is “absolutely no idea.”
This, however, led to plans for a collaborative show, featuring a team from the theatre, indie music, and performing arts scene.
“We thought, hey, why don’t we reintroduce classic Malaysian folk tales to younger generations?” says William, 43, who is the vocalist and bassist of the rock band Tempered Mental.
The result? Dondang Dongeng, a unique retelling of Malaysian folklore in songs, specially curated for children of all ages and the young at heart.
The show, which also has Merdeka month flavour, will play at Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PJPac), 1 Utama Shopping Centre on Aug 25 and 26.
Even the show’s title evokes the image of children listening raptly as they're told fantastical fables.
For this musical treat, William, the Dondang Dongeng show’s creative director, is supported by a talented team of female collaborators, including composer and musical director Irena Taib, composer Mia Palencia, main vocalist/advisor for traditional elements Asmidar and writer Alia Ali.
'We chose the (folk) stories based on which are the most interesting and iconic,' says William. Photo: Filepic/The Star
“We chose the stories based on which are the most interesting and iconic, then it was left to Irena and Mia (the show’s other composer) to write the songs. I think what’s different is that the songs could be from any part of the story and from the point of view of any of the characters,” says William.
Dondang Dongeng features six original compositions and three traditional classics, covering seven folk tales from across Malaysia. Before the start of each song, a storyteller - Iefiz Alaudin - will set up the scene for the audience.
The show is designed as a fun and relaxed watch, says Ryan Lee Bhaskaran (one of the show's four vocalists), adding that it wasn’t just for children.
Listen to the stories
Even if you are a newcomer to these folk tales, don't be worried. Dondang Donggeng is an accessible show, with the storytelling element and lively music to keep the masses entertained and engaged.
“For music lovers, you get to experience the harmony and unity when traditional and modern instruments come together,” says Lee Bhaskaran, who is also a drummer and a theatre actor.
Asmidar, who is a teacher in traditional vocals and mek mulung (traditional Malay theatre) at Aswara, highlights the importance of having young Malaysians learn about local folklore.
Traditional and modern instruments will both be incorporated in the 'Dondang Dongeng' show at PJPac this weekend. Photo: Handout
“Many Malaysian youths know Disney films, but when we talk about Malaysian folklore, they don’t know much, and this leaves them unable to relate to our roots and culture. Dondang Dongeng is special because we don’t often get the chance to share these stories in such a way,” she says.
“We keep looking outside for sources of inspiration, but it’s time to look in. We should be proud of our folktales – they give us a sense of who we are as Malaysians,” says Irena.
The team worked closely with a group of young musicians who play traditional instruments such as gambus, accordion, rebana, flute and sape to give the songs a traditional touch.
“The process of workshopping with the traditional musicians was different from how I usually produce music and brought all of us out of our comfort zones,” shares Irena, who is also one-third of the Impatient Sisters, an indie band she formed with her siblings.
“The songs take a modern approach, but the traditional instruments have their own character, so it was a fun challenge to see how we can bring them both together and make it work,” she adds.
Sang Kancil, a cheeky mouse-deer known for using his wit and quick thinking to overcome other animals that would otherwise have him for dinner, might get the popular vote as the show's main highlight story. But let's not forget folk tales such as Si Tanggang, Bawah Merah Bawah Puteh and Puteri Santubong, which are also set to come alive in the show.
“When you’re a kid and there’s a small character like Sang Kancil that can do amazing things and outsmart the tough guys, it empowers you and leaves you thinking, ‘Oh, I can do it, too’,” says William.
Dondang Dongeng will play at Stage 1, Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PJPac), 1 Utama Shopping Centre on Aug 25 and 26. More info here.
