This February, the Ciputra Artpreneur Theatre will come alive with MAR, a musical drama that blends romance, patriotism, and the timeless melodies of Indonesian maestro Ismail Marzuki. But MAR isn’t just a performance—it’s a cultural homage, a historical reflection, and a celebration of artistic collaboration.
Movement Rooted in Memory
Choreographers Davit Fitrik and Hamada have crafted dance sequences that do more than entertain—they evoke the spirit of Bandung in the 1940s. “The time context in MAR is a powerful element,” Davit explains. “It shapes our choreography and connects it to the storyline.” Every gesture and movement is steeped in historical nuance, reflecting the emotional and political pulse of a post-independence Indonesia.
Jazz Echoes of a Bygone Era
Composer Dian HP, long inspired by Marzuki’s work, brings a fresh yet reverent touch to the musical score. Her arrangements fuse old-school jazz with modern textures, weaving over 40 musical pieces into the show’s narrative. “My tribute to Ismail Marzuki lies in the arrangements I’ve created,” she shares. “They blend falsetto vocals and ensemble jazz to amplify the atmosphere and patriotic spirit of his legacy.”
A Story of Love and Resistance
Directed by Wawan Sofwan and written by acclaimed screenwriter Titien Wattimena, MAR tells a fictional love story set against the backdrop of real historical events—most notably the tragic Bandung Lautan Api. The production explores the tension between personal longing and national sacrifice, with characters navigating romance and resilience in a time of upheaval.
A Cast That Bridges Generations
Young talents like Gabriel Harvianto and Galabby Thahira lead the cast, portraying lovers torn between duty and desire. Their performances promise to resonate with audiences across generations, breathing new life into Marzuki’s enduring songs.
A Tribute Beyond the Stage
MAR also honors the late Arifin Panigoro and Raisis Panigoro, whose admiration for Marzuki’s work helped shape the vision for this production. Their legacy lives on in a show that invites audiences to reflect, remember, and rejoice.
