The Surakarta-style Javanese Art Unit (UKJGS) held its annual art performance called Gladi Madya with the theme “Manunggaling Sedya Ngrembakaning Budaya” (Unifying Spirit to Revive Culture) on Saturday (1/7).
The performance took place at Graha Widya Padma, Yogyakarta, showcasing various traditional dances and arts of the archipelago.
UKJGS is one of the student activity units at UGM that nurtures students’ talents in dance, traditional Javanese music (karawitan), and puppetry (pedalangan) in the Surakarta style. UKJGS has initiated numerous cultural art performances to preserve national art, including Gladi Madya.
This event serves as an annual performance and a welcoming ceremony for new members of UKJGS. This year’s theme signifies the importance of preserving national culture through activities adapting to changing times and maintaining attractiveness while maintaining its noble essence.
“This event is an opportunity for our members who have undergone training throughout their membership year to showcase their talents. It is not only limited to performances. The backstage crew is also handled by our new members, with the assistance of alumni and mentors,” said Abdul Hanung Muqiit, the general chairperson of UKJGS.
The event consisted of three main performances: Teater Kerakyatan (People’s Theater), Karawitan titled “Kangsa Adu Jago,” and dances, namely Gambyong Pareanom, Golek Manis, Dombanini, and Putra Gunung Sari.
“The nuance differs slightly from the previous Gladi Madya, which featured the Eko Prawiro dance. Here, we present a variety of graceful movements for the male dance, Gunung Sari. Therefore, we hope this new atmosphere can be fully enjoyed,” said the chairperson.
He added that every performance was presented engagingly to ensure everyone could enjoy it.
“As a mentor, I am proud of UKJGS’s remarkable activities. They are diligent and progressive, as evidenced by tonight’s performance. It is also a form of cultural preservation among young people,” said Professor Hardyanto Soebono, MD, the mentor.
Professor Soebono expressed his pride in the students in his speech and conveyed it through Javanese songs and chants.
According to the Director of Student Affairs, Dr. Sindung Tjahyadi, Gladi Madya has its tradition in choosing the venue. The selected stage is not designed explicitly for performances but is a village hall close to the community.
“Gladi Madya has its tradition. We chose this village hall so our students can mingle with the local community,” said the director.
Author: Tasya