Kota bharu: Theatre in Kelantan needs a more structured direction to ensure that the growing pool of young talent is not left adrift without proper guidance or a permanent platform to develop their potential. Aqil Rozai, director of ‘Di Mana Putra? Kembara Ilusi Merentasi Fantasi dan Realiti’, said helming large-scale performances featuring school students had opened his eyes to the extraordinary talent and confidence of Kelantan’s young performers.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the main challenge currently facing the theatre scene in Kelantan is the lack of a permanent platform and regular competitions to sustain young people’s interest and ensure continuous training to consistently produce new talent. Aqil mentioned that even a small performance space would suffice-one that can seat about 100 members of the audience per session and serve as a permanent venue for training and showcasing talent, instead of relying on a single large-scale production each year. He shared these insights with Bernama after the theatre performance at the Kelantan National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) Auditorium in Tanjong Chat last night.
Aqil, who has more than 10 years of directing experience, said the theatre production by Anak Seni Pendidikan Kelantan (Aspek) featured a variety of characters, including Jack Sparrow and Peter Pan, alongside local icons such as Tok Janggut, Sarjan Che Wan, and Tok Kenali, in an effort to reintroduce the state’s history to the younger generation. He noted that Kelantan has vast theatre potential, with many promising talents emerging from schools and higher learning institutions. However, consistent training and performance opportunities are crucial to sustaining their interest.
Aqil emphasized that the young actors are not only learning to act but also developing discipline, confidence, and communication skills. With continuous support, more talents from Kelantan can shine at national and international levels. He also urged agencies such as JKKN, the State Education Department, and local universities to collaborate with professional theatre groups to organise acting, scriptwriting, and directing workshops at the grassroots level.
Meanwhile, Kelantan JKKN director Rohaniza Abdullah stated that the department remains committed to providing a platform for local artists, particularly young talents, to showcase their creativity through theatre. She stressed the importance of having a platform, noting that when there is space for artists to stage their work, new talents can be nurtured, and the community can appreciate theatre as an art form.
Rohaniza added that children’s theatre such as ‘Di Mana Putra?’ have a positive impact as they draw families to enjoy the show together, strengthening family bonds while introducing the world of theatre to the younger generation. She sees this as the first step towards bringing theatre back to the community and ensuring that the performing arts continue to thrive in Kelantan. JKKN assesses each production based on the quality and credibility of the director and actors in attracting audiences.
The theatre production ‘Di Mana Putra?’ tells the story of the spiritual awakening of its main character, Putra-a mischievous 12-year-old boy who loves to fantasise and often takes advantage of others. Through his journey, Putra ultimately realises his true self and the importance of valuing the people around him. Last night’s theatre performance drew an overwhelming response, with nearly 1,000 theatre lovers filling the state JKKN Auditorium. A second showing is scheduled to take place tonight at the same venue.