Wayang Orang Bharata to be performed 10 times in Jakarta throughout 2026

The DKI Jakarta Provincial Government has scheduled Wayang Orang Bharata performances at the Gedung Kesenian Wayang Orang Bharata in Jakarta to take place 10 times throughout 2026. “It will be held routinely every month, with a total of 10 planned regular performances throughout 2026,” said Rinaldi, Head of the Performing Arts and Cultural Building Management Unit (UP GPSB) of the DKI Jakarta Culture Agency, when contacted in Jakarta on Sunday. Each performance will provide seating for around 220 spectators, in line with the venue’s capacity. The performances are free of charge, conducted in accordance with the cooperation agreement with the Paguyuban Wayang Orang Bharata, while considering the provincial government’s financial capabilities. Rinaldi stated that the regular Wayang Orang Bharata performances are inseparable from the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government’s commitment to continuing to pay attention to other regional cultures present in Jakarta. This is as stipulated in Article 31 paragraph (1) of Law No. 2 of 2024 on the Special Province of Jakarta, which states that Jakarta has special authority in government affairs in the field of culture to prioritise the advancement of Betawi culture and other cultures developing in Jakarta. Based on these provisions and Jakarta’s cultural diversity characterised by multiculturalism, multi-ethnicity, and high heterogeneity brought by Jakarta’s residents from their regions of origin, this implies a diversity of arts and cultures displayed in performing arts spaces as well as living art spaces managed by the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government through the Culture Agency. Previously, three performances have been held at the Gedung Kesenian Wayang Orang Bharata, namely “Wisanggeni Lahir”, “Gatutkaca Tundung”, and “Bagong Kembar”. The “Bagong Kembar” performance was held on 7 March 2026, telling the story of the King of the Goa Siluman Kingdom named Prabu Kala Parungga, who falls in love with Candrawati, the daughter of Prabu Candrakusuma. He intends to marry Candrawati. However, Dewi Candrawati is to be married to Bagong. With the help of Batara Kala, Prabu Kala Parungga transforms his form into Bagong. The one who has transformed into the Fake Bagong is then accepted in the Candra Manggala Kingdom and is to marry his admired woman. However, the real Bagong arrives, and by the decision of Prabu Candrakusuma, the two Bagongs (twin Bagongs) must fight, and the winner will be Candrawati’s husband.