A key feature of randai is the use of ‘seluar galembong’ costumes, which create a drum-like sound when clapped due to their triangular shape. Photo: The Star/Kamarul Ariffin
Have you experienced randai theatre? This Minangkabau traditional performing arts, from Negri Sembilan, weaves intricate silat movements with folk songs, stories and riddles, all set to the rhythmic sounds of traditional instruments such as caklempong, rebana, salung, and gongs.
And let’s not forget the generous dose of comedy charm that adds an extra layer of delight.
For the next DFP Seni Festival showcase, Dewan Filharmonik Petronas in Kuala Lumpur will buzz with fresh energy with the family-friendly show, Randai Mudo Pak Belalang, on Aug 10.
For the first time, the DFP will present a randai performance, marking a notable debut for the venue as it hosts a cast of school-aged performers on its main stage.
Randai, a Minangkabau cultural art form, is traditionally performed during rice harvests, weddings, and other celebrations. Photo: The Star/Kamarul Ariffin
The show is part of this year’s DFP Seni Festival series, following performances by Jit Sin High School’s Chinese Orchestra on July 20 and Mek Mulung Putera Cahaya Bulan on July 27.
“These young talents have previously performed at smaller events, so we are truly honoured to take the stage at DFP. The kids are thrilled to showcase everything they’ve learned to such a large audience,” says Raja Nor Sheela Raja Aziddin, deputy rector of Aswara (National Academy of Arts Culture and Heritage), during a preview of the randai performance.
Randai, usually performed by adult actors, will receive a fresh twist at the DFP.
The Randai Mudo Pak Belalang cast, featuring 20 primary school students in Kuala Lumpur taught by Pewara Dance Theatre – an Aswara alumni group – will present the story of “Pak Belalang”.
The cast, the teachers and backstage crew of 'Randai Mudo Pak Belalang' will be the first to perform this traditional folk theatre at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas in KL. Photo: The Star/Kamarul Ariffin
This tale follows a poor but lazy father, Pak Belalang, whose son, also named Belalang, manages the household affairs and assists others in the kampung.
The father-and-son duo have several misadventures, including encountering two bandits who stole a goat and a cow from one of the villagers.
The dedicated and playful cast, ranging from seven to 12 years old, has spent months perfecting their performance through workshops (since last November) and rigorous rehearsals, featuring theatre, dance, music, and martial arts.
“While they might not fully grasp the nuances of this folk tale or the prestige that comes with performing on such a stage, these children are eager to learn and are enthusiastic about getting an authentic portrayal of these characters,” says Mohd Adika Zainal, the show’s director.
Director Adika (far right) and choreographer Yusmar (squatting) discuss with the cast during a preview at DFP. Photo: The Star/Kamarul Ariffin
“Randai is an intense theatre performance, so it requires a lot of energy to do well, which is something they have in abundance,” he adds with a smile.
The preparation – homework! – for the 90-minute show has been both enjoyable and enriching for the cast members, blending learning with fun as they gradually settled into their roles.
“I feel excited and grateful to be chosen to play the role of the great Tan Sri P. Ramlee, Pak Belalang. My preparation was to watch the 1959 film Nujum Pa’ Blalang (aka Nujub Pak Belalang), starring P. Ramlee, to understand my character better,” says Muhammad Adam Rifqi Mohd Azri, 11, who plays Pak Belalang.
“At the same time, I am happy to be given the opportunity to further develop my talent in the performing arts, including acting out the randai silat movement,” he adds.
On the DFP stage, a traditional music ensemble of seasoned musicians will provide live accompaniment to the performance.
Muhammad Adam Rifqi Mohd Azri (left, standing) as Pak Belalang and Muhammad Eylham Haqqi Bin Md Eyzendy (right) as 'Belalang', his son. Photo: The Star/Kamarul Ariffin
To better support the young cast and engage a broader audience, the language of the show has also been standardised to Bahasa Malaysia, minimising the use of regional dialects.
“The original folk tale involves a lot of ‘silat’ martial arts, so we adapted the script and choreography to not burden these young talents. However, they have been voicing out their opinions regularly during practice, especially when doing musical numbers, they are always saying, ‘Cikgu, can we add this, or can we change that’, which is encouraging to hear as a teacher, and helps give a fresh take on a traditional performance,” says Mohamad Yusmar Afeendi Yusof, the show’s choreographer.
“The biggest challenge, as anticipated, is that kids will be kids.
"There were days when they resisted memorising lines or preferred playing with their friends. Nevertheless, we are proud of their dedication and see a promising future for them in the performing arts,” he adds.
Currently, randai performances are mostly confined to small scale gatherings, driven by a group of passionate practitioners who continue to uphold this art form in Negri Sembilan.
“One of our key goals for this performance is to inspire a new generation of randai artistes and traditional performers who will carry forward our heritage and ensure these cherished arts do not fade away,” concludes Juhara Ayob, production manager.
DFP Muzikal: Randai Mudo Pak Belalang is showing at Dewan Filharmonic Petronas, KLCC on Aug 10, 8.30pm. The 90-minute show (no intermission) is part of the DFP Seni Festival.
