IN an effort to promote local culture, a new production was recently unveiled that fuses state-of-the art technology with a Dikir Barat performance. During the media launch and showcase, 'Dikir Barat Sentuhan Teknologi: Kisah Hang Tuah' stood out as an utterly captivating production that makes a case for the reinvention, or rather reimagining of the possibilities for traditional art forms.
This imaginative and innovative production incorporates cutting-edge technological techniques to create a more immersive experience for audiences. Projection mapping, holographics, and motion capture technology were used without compromising the essence of the traditional Dikir Barat performance. Projection mapping for instance allows for a dynamic backdrop, while holographics and motion capture amplify special effects during the performance.
The production also explores the vast creative possibilities of Dikir Barat as a narrative and theatrical art form, through an ingenious retelling and interpretation of Kisah Hang Tuah, one of Malaysia’s most beloved epics. The tale is brought to life through dramatisation and Dikir Barat songs and verses, including Karut Yengki, Karut Kelantan, Lagu Jogho, Karut Tani, Lagu Matan, Karut Kelantan and Wau Bulan.
Dikir Barat is an iconic and cherished Kelantanese traditional performance involving singing, improvised verse, and chorus chanting. A typical Dikir Barat team consists of a tok jogho (leader), a tukang karut (improvised lyric composer), the awak-awak (chorus clappers), and musicians.
The lyrical melodies of the Tok Jogho convey the importance of preserving this cultural tradition through the generations. The charismatic Tukang Karut then elaborates on the lyrics in improvised verse, echoed by the chorus. The chorus plays a vital role in holding the performance together, characterised by a unity of voices symbolising strength in solidarity and collective harmony. Expressive hand gestures, inspired by flora and fauna, illustrate the messages of the verses.
Supported by the Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism (Motac) and in collaboration with local organisations, the programme aims to promote traditional art as a cultural tourism product that can provide economic returns to culture and arts practitioners. The production also opens a new dimension for traditional arts so that it may align with the needs and sensibilities of the times, making it a compelling showcase for international audiences.
Besides the performance, a brand-new documentary was screened that explores the roots and history of Dikir Barat, featuring experts in the art form, as well as providing a contemporary cultural context. A photography exhibition on the evolution of Dikir Barat was also unveiled.
Dikir Barat ‘Sentuhan Teknologi’: Kisah Hang Tuah will be performed again at the Living Arts Cultural Festival (LACF) JKKN on November 5 at the Mini Auditorium, Malaysian Tourism Centre (MaTiC) Kuala Lumpur. – The Vibes, October 22, 2022
