The Ismail Marzuki Arts Center (TIM) seems to have been

The Ismail Marzuki Arts Center (TIM) seems to have been forgotten now. While in the past this arts center was always associated with quality performances from the regions and other countries, today it is only a place where people have their lunch, make love in their cars or see a movie. Of course, the Jakarta Arts Council still organizes some arts events there but they are usually low in quality and attract only a small audience.

Take, for example, what happened on the 36th anniversary of the center on Nov. 6. The performance that night was of poor quality and Ismail Marzuki's family members were not even invited. Jakarta Governor Sutiyoso left when the performance was only half-finished. So, wherefore TIM?

SARBINI Jakarta