Adding festivity to its anniversary this year, Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) curated a captivating ludruk performance.
Unfolding on Saturday night (December 16) after the laudation of distinguished alumni, the ludruk narrative unfolded the tale of “Tumpengan Pilihan Lurah,” spinning the yarn of Mr. Lurah’s desire for his child to contest the impending village head election.
This production tactfully portrayed the nuances of political maneuvering, familial ties, and community dynamics.
In this satirical plot, Mr. Lurah orchestrates a grand plan, rallying village officials to bolster his quest to cling to power by any means necessary. Despite a cautionary warning from the sage Bayan, the incumbent Lurah adamantly pushes for his son, Gus Aji, to assume the role of Lurah.
Justification stems from his child’s achievements and connection with the Z generation. Additionally, the Lurah prepares two chests of funds for political expenses, including the extravagant tumpeng feast and the traditional Javanese dance, tayuban.
Unexpectedly, the Lurah’s nomination faces an opponent, Srikandi Menthelwati, the daughter of the former Lurah (Lurah Dongkol). Adding to the political drama, three loyal aides of the incumbent Lurah defect to the rival camp, becoming the campaign team for Menthelwati. Their plot includes organizing a lavish tumpeng feast and celebrating Lurah Dongkol’s birthday.
In a surprising twist, both factions agree to host a dual tumpeng event in the village, culminating in a convivial feast of gratuities where everyone receives envelopes. The only one missing out on the culinary delights is Mrs. Lurah, who is on official duties out of town.
The storyline concludes with an unexpected revelation—both Lurah candidates are secretly entwined in a love affair.
The performance featured university and faculty leaders, with UGM’s Rector, Professor Ova Emilia, taking on the role of Mrs. Lurah and Muhammad Bagus Febriyanto as Lurah.
Other notable performers included Dr. Rustamaji as the Male Lurah Candidate, Dr. Wirastuti Widyatmanti as the Female Lurah Candidate, and various faculty members portraying key characters in this ludruk performance.
This vibrant theatrical production was brought to life through the collaborative efforts of Dr. Cahyaningrum Dewojati (scriptwriter and director), Dr. Sindung Tjahyadi (producer), Rudy Wiratama (artistic and stage arrangement), and Laurentius Hanan (song arrangement).
Dr. Sindung Tjahyadi emphasized that the choice of ludruk performance is based on the desires of many alumni friends. Ludruk in the East Java region has fans, such as in Jombang and Malang. These two areas are still very strong, making ludruk the preferred choice.
Highlighting the intent behind the chosen storyline, Dr. Tjahyadi said its satirical essence, offering a playful commentary on the current national scenario. The message is clear—amidst diverse choices and perspectives, unity prevails, akin to the collective endeavor that is Indonesia.
“As exemplified by what happened last time. Don’t be overly emotional, especially to the point of fighting, hating each other, and so on. In the end, everything is in the same boat, namely Indonesia,” he said.
Author: Agung Nugroho
Photographer: Donnie