Opera Jawa

As the two protagonists hold the bloody organ between them, the narrator of Garin Nugroho's morality play OPERA JAWA sings: “In a pig's liver, one can see an entire life.” Fate drives this Indonesian musical of love and death set against a backdrop of a poignant social commentary about violence, oppression, and national disaster. OPERA JAWA reinterprets the ever-changing story of the Abduction of Sinta-a Hindu parable about the husband and wife Sinta and Rama, whose love is threatened by the powerful king Ravana. Former Javanese dancers, Siti and Setio assume the roles of the tragic lovers in Nugroho's modern version. While Setio is away on business, the wealthy and powerful Ludiro attempts to seduce Siti with the help of his domineering mother. As Siti succumbs to Ludiro's advances, Setio erupts into a jealous rage. In OPERA JAWA, Nugroho allures with a heartrending narrative, stunning art instillations, and passionate dance. (In Indonesian with English subtitles.) – E.J.B.