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Tue, 11 Mar 2025
JIMBARAN – As part of its efforts to preserve Balinese literature and language while fostering student creativity, ninth-grade students at Widiatmika Middle School successfully staged three drama performances based on Balinese folklore (satua), titled I Bawang lan I Kesuna, The Origins of Buleleng Singaraja, and Calon Arang. This performance was not merely a theatrical showcase but also an educational platform that allowed students to absorb moral and cultural values in an engaging and interactive way.
Held at Aula Kanthi Widya on Friday, March 7, 2025, this performance was part of the Projek Penguatan Profil Pelajar Pancasila (P5) program with the theme of Local Wisdom. Each ninth-grade class independently selected one Balinese folktale to stage, using the Balinese language as the medium of performance. Interestingly, every aspect of the production involved students actively. Beyond acting, they formed teams for stage props and set design, music and sound management, documentation, as well as makeup and costume design.
The students underwent an intensive one-month preparation before the performance. During this period, they not only rehearsed their acting skills but also creatively repurposed used materials and simple tools to create props that enhanced the performance setting. Their hard work paid off, with the Calon Arang play, performed by Class IX.3, winning first place as judged by the panel.
“The students were highly enthusiastic about this project. Their response was very positive, especially because this type of performance connects them with local culture in a fun and interactive way. They not only learn about folktales but also engage directly in performing arts, which enhances their creativity, confidence, and pride in their cultural heritage,” said Ni Komang Sandini, a supervising teacher for the P5 ninth-grade program at Widiatmika Middle School.
The staged dramas highlighted meaningful Balinese folktales. I Bawang lan I Kesuna tells the story of two friends with contrasting personalities, teaching moral values such as kindness, diligence, and the importance of avoiding jealousy. The Origins of Buleleng and Singaraja recounts the journey of I Gede Pasekan, son of King Sri Bagening, in founding the Buleleng and Singaraja kingdoms. During his journey, he received divine guidance and assisted a ship captain whose vessel had run aground before ultimately establishing the kingdom.
Meanwhile, Calon Arang tells the story of a widow with mastery of black magic who becomes enraged when her daughter remains unmarried. In her fury, she unleashes a deadly plague upon the kingdom. This tale teaches the importance of controlling emotions and not misusing power to harm others. Additionally, Calon Arang is often interpreted as a symbol of female resistance against injustice.
I Putu Agus Ariangga Iswara, Coordinator of the P5 Local Wisdom Facilitator Team at Widiatmika Middle School, emphasized that the selection of Balinese folktales as the main theme had a deeper purpose. He believes Balinese folklore carries moral messages and noble values that remain relevant in modern life. By appreciating Balinese literature, the school hopes to encourage students to explore and preserve it further.
More than just a performance, Ariangga noted that this activity served as a platform for students to refine talents that may otherwise go unnoticed, whether in acting or technical aspects such as costume and set design.
“Equally important, this performance trained their collaboration skills. They learned to combine their strengths to achieve a shared goal,” added Ariangga.
Through this drama performance, Widiatmika Middle School not only strengthens culture-based education but also breathes new life into Balinese literature in a way that is relevant and inspiring for the younger generation.
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