Teater Syahid's Performance Brings a Message of Peace from Sophocles' Classic Script

Student Center Hall, UIN Online News – The Student Activity Unit (UKM) Teater Syahid held a performance titled “Antigone” from June 21-23, 2024. This is one of Syahid's flagship programs.

The dark room welcomed enthusiastic visitors who sought strategic spots to watch the performance. As the event began, a group of characters entered the stage, capturing the audience's attention.

Asymmetrical wooden installations forming a semi-circle added an aesthetic value to the performance. These wooden structures could represent a palace, cityscape, or any setting depending on the viewer’s interpretation.

This classic drama by Sophocles was adapted by Teater Syahid and directed by Sir Ilham Jambak, a 1997 member of Teater Syahid.

In summary, Antigone emphasizes that there is no power above that of God Almighty. The story contains a moral message relevant to the flaws in societal systems caused by politicians or other groups.

Creon, Antigone’s uncle and the tyrannical new leader, enforces inhumane rules, such as sentencing to death anyone who buries Polyneices—Antigone’s brother, who was killed for defying Creon.

Antigone, the main character, defies Creon’s decree. Dressed in all red, she stands firm in her beliefs, willing to face death for the sake of truth.

“There is no death more noble than one that defends the truth,” declared Antigone, portrayed by Suci Anisa, a young member of Teater Syahid 2022, on Saturday (June 22, 2024).

Sir Ilham Jambak explained that he chose Antigone because classic scripts are often neglected. He believes that Antigone can be revisited and adapted to current conditions.

“This is a study performance for young members who have just joined Teater Syahid. I am also providing a foundation for what an actual performance entails,” explained Sir, who is also involved with Teater Koma.

Furthermore, Sir highly appreciated the performance designed by Teater Syahid over 40 meetings. He hopes the audience will develop an appreciation for performances at UIN Jakarta, making it easier to convey the play’s message.

Teater Syahid is one of the oldest UKMs at UIN Jakarta, established on October 17, 1988. This UKM not only focuses on theater performances but also initiates research or creative experiments in theater production.

(Febria Adha Larasati/ Noeni Indah Sulistiyani/Faadhilati Idris)