Jabang Tetuko

For the majority of the first part of 2011, I was in Jakarta, Indonesia to work on an incredible new project that I am extremely proud to be a part of.

Jabang Tetuko is the first title in a series of interactive mixed-media productions designed to revive national and international interest in traditional Indonesian Javanese wayang stories. The production is an immersive cultural experience—a dynamic and spectacular live attraction—where audiences will be right in the middle of a theatrical entertainment form that combines film, live stage performance, and original orchestral and traditional music, all happening simultaneously and interactively.

Unlike conventional theater seating concepts where the audience experiences a production by facing the stage or screen, Jabang Tetuko features three stages and three giant wall-sized screens which surround the audience and folds them into the action, creating a unique, never-before-seen experience. Using modern narrative styles, original music (live orchestra, percussion ensemble, and a traditional Indonesian choir), cinematic wirework stunt sequences, and cutting-edge costume and production design, the show was designed to reconnect audiences to classic wayang tales in a style that suits the contemporary entertainment appetite.

In the midst of all of this, spending almost half a year in an entirely new and exotic culture, far from what I know as my own, has been live-giving for me and has provided a new perspective on the world that I very desperately needed. I've discovered a place that has become my "island away from home" and now occupies a very important place in my heart. During the little slivers of downtime between shows, I have travelled to other countries in the southeast Asian region, and each one has been truly unique and special in its own right. What's most exciting is that through this whole experience I have met hundreds of new friends, many of whom I now consider family. Jabang Tetuko has been more than just another project for me—it has been a game-changing life event in every sense.

I'll most certainly post about this experience again very soon, as the show is continuing on to other countries. There is also a lot of talk swirling around about other plans since the public response to our first run has been so incredibly positive. For now, though, check out this little behind-the-scenes documentary that my team has put together. It will give you a very colorful idea of just how truly remarkable this experience has been for all of us.

Press Junket Interview: "Jabang Tetuko" Finale Performance

If you cannot see the video below, please click here.

The Making of the Music for "Jabang Tetuko" (documentary)

If you cannot see the video below, please click here.

Deane Ogden