Oplet Robet Aims to Modernise Betawi Performances

The Betawi arts community Oplet Robet continues to strive to present more modern cultural performances in order to attract public interest without abandoning the traditional roots that form its identity. Oplet Robet founder Ramdhani Qubil AJ, known as Bang Qubil, said the community dreams of improving the quality of Betawi arts performances through more creative packaging that keeps pace with the times. “We want Betawi arts to move up a grade with lighting design, artistic direction, and so on,” said Bang Qubil after the Lenong Kampung Te-Ko performance celebrating Jakarta’s 499th anniversary. According to him, traditional arts must continue to evolve to remain relevant for today’s generation. However, such innovation must not eliminate the cultural elements that serve as its foundation. He cited Gambang Kromong music, a vital part of Betawi performances, as something that must be maintained even when presented with a more modern approach. Bang Qubil said Oplet Robet is trying to show that Betawi culture is not synonymous with something antiquated and can adapt to technological developments and the needs of contemporary audiences. “Oplet Robet’s dream is how to create a Betawi performance that is, if possible, five-dimensional. So that people also know that Betawi can develop and keep up with the times,” he said. As part of this effort, Oplet Robet plans to hold a solo performance next October at the Jakarta Arts Building with a more mature production concept in terms of artistic elements and stage management. He hopes that innovations carried out by the arts community can encourage the public, especially the younger generation, to become more familiar with and appreciate Betawi culture. “Don’t call Betawi old-fashioned. Betawi can also develop, can keep up with the times without forgetting its cultural roots,” said Bang Qubil.