Extravagant music and laser beam show planned

JAKARTA (JP): An extravagant music and laser beam show, entitled Pesta Rakyat Indonesia Emas, Golden Indonesia People's Party, involving over 100 artists will be held in the east parking lot of Senayan, South Jakarta, on Aug. 12.

The artists to perform in the show include, among others, Nicky Astria, Doel Sumbang, Katon Bagaskara, Poppy Mercury, Ita Purnamasari, Ebiet G Ade, Yuni Shara, Iwa K, the group Kahanan, Gong 2000 and Soneta. The party will also present dances by Sentot Sudariyanto.

Dangdut music king Rhoma Irama said, "This is a special show that no one will ever forget in commemorating Indonesia's 50 years of independence,"

Head of the organizing committee, Dimas Wahab, said this music celebration will make the commemoration of Indonesia's Independence Day merrier.

Dimas said because of the quantity of artists that will perform, the entertainment will be presented in concert form.

"This show will be free of charge," Dimas said, adding that it is hoped that the crowd will be well mannered.

Spectacular displays of colorful lasers from the visual Effect and Monumental Imagery Production ECA2 of France will be featured at the party. The company is well known for its displays at the Grand Opening of Euro Disney, the Olympic Games (including the upcoming 1996 games in Atlanta, the United States), the Eiffel Tower Centenary and Jean Michael Jarre Concerts World Wide.

Besides the spectacular effects, a dancing laser show, impressive sky beams, and top class fireworks will also be presented.

The party will be aired live throughout the archipelago by SCTV, one of the private television stations, and is expected to last for two hours and 45 minutes.

"But because of the limited space, the venue can accommodate only 100,000 spectators," Dimas said.

Luli Widharmadi, the secretary of the organizing committee, urged people to come early, and to wear red and white headbands if possible.

"The wearing of the headbands functions as a symbol of unity. Besides, visually, 100,000 people wearing red and white headbands will make a beautiful and heroic scene. We hope that everything will go well," said Luli, adding that the committee will also provide headbands. (Pandu Syahrir)