The musical drama “MAR” by ArtSwara, performed at the Ciputra Artpreneur theater on Wednesday night, delivered a touching, captivating, and spectacular performance, earning a standing ovation from around 1000 audience members.
Executive Producer and initiator, Maera Panigoro, stated that the performance was a special tribute to the late Mr. Arifin Panigoro and Mrs. Raisis Arifin Panigoro, who were admirers of Ismail Marzuki’s works, the city of Bandung, and jazz music.
“I am truly moved to see the audience’s love for MAR tonight, thank you for letting yourself drift into emotions by our musical drama. Thank you for the timeless works of Ismail Marzuki, which we believe will continue to inspire. The entire cast, crew, and production team have worked hard on this,” Maera stated.
Among the extraordinary talents are Galabby Tahira, who portrays Aryati, and Gabriel Harvianto as Sergeant Major Mar, supported by equally brilliant performers among whom are Bima Zeno Pooroe as Corporal Jono, Barly Putra Amandita as Corporal Parta, Diana Putri as Ningrum, Ni Made Ayu Vania as Neng, Chandra Satria as Ambu, and other performers.
The stage design, sound, and lighting, along with the accompanying live music under renowned composer Dian HP, perfectly etched the memorable premiere night of MAR, indicated by the enthusiasm as well as laughter, smiles, tears from more than 1000 attendees in the Ciputra Artpreneur theater on Wednesday night (26/2).
“MAR” takes the audience back to Bandung in 1946, a time of great upheaval that changed many lives. Through the narration of Nin to her granddaughter, Mara, the story of Mar, a soldier of the People’s Security Army (TKR), and Aryati, a volunteer nurse, unfolds. The couple met and fell in love, filled with hopes.
However, the conflict brewing in Bandung eventually stood in their way to happiness, caught between their new found love and call of duty. The Bandung Sea of Fire incident in early 1946 torn them apart and threw them into unexpected circumstances, leaving lasting memories as the city that silently witnessed their life journey.
The musical drama “MAR” is ArtSwara’s 13th production and has been in preparation since 2021. MAR’s producer, Narindra Kukila, explained that the production process took longer than usual due to the meticulous concept, from the script by Titien Wattimena, the song arrangements by Dian HP, and then the choreography. Narindra emphasized three main aspects of this musical: singing, dancing, and acting.
ArtSwara is a music and entertainment powerhouse founded on August 7, 2009. In line with the vision and mission of PT. Artistika Mahaswara Indonesia, ArtSwara is committed to delivering quality musical drama and enriching options for Indonesian art lovers while at the same time serving as a platform for developing talents, both for professionals and non-professionals.
