From UIN Jakarta to the Global Stage: Bambang Prihadi’s Theatrical Journey

Jakarta, UIN Online News – UIN Jakarta takes pride in producing graduates who make significant contributions to their fields. One of its most distinguished alumni is Bambang Prihadi, a prominent figure in Indonesia’s theater industry who currently serves as the Chairman of the Theater Committee at the Jakarta Arts Council.

Bambang graduated from the Arabic Language and Literature program at the Faculty of Adab and Humanities, UIN Jakarta. His journey in theater began during his university years when he joined Teater Syahid in 1995. Seeking deeper artistic exploration, he later became part of Teater Kubur in 1998, a group known for its experimental and socially critical performances.

In 2005, Bambang established Lab Teater Ciputat, an initiative aimed at fostering creativity among young artists. His dedication to the arts earned him prestigious international recognition, including an Art Grant from the Japan Foundation in 2015, which allowed him to undergo Suzuki Method Acting Training in Japan. He also received the K-Fellowship from the South Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, broadening his global artistic exposure.

His talent as a director has been widely acknowledged. He helmed "Beautiful Water", an international collaboration with Japanese and Malaysian directors from 2018 to 2020. His exceptional direction also won him the Best Director Award at the Jakarta Theater Festival (FTJ) in 2003 and the Best Director Award at the National Student Theater Festival in Yogyakarta in 2005. Furthermore, he represented Indonesia at the ASEAN Performing Arts Festival (APAF) in 2012, 2013, and 2015, strengthening his influence on the Asian theater scene.

Beyond directing, Bambang is a playwright, scriptwriter, and acting coach. His critically acclaimed works, including "Eksodus" (1999), "Aduh" (2000), and "Umang-Umang" (2001), reflect his commitment to highlighting social issues through the power of storytelling.

As the Chairman of the Theater Committee at the Jakarta Arts Council, Bambang is dedicated to fostering the growth of Indonesia’s theater scene. His leadership paves the way for emerging artists and strengthens the country’s presence in the global performing arts community.