snf:category/experiential-programmes / "The Abduction Of Siti Dewi": A Wayang Kulit Performance
"The Abduction Of Siti Dewi": A Wayang Kulit Performance
Experience traditional shadow puppetry with Ramayana Saga – The Story of the Abduction of Siti Dewi. This Wayang Kulit performance brings a classic epic to life through intricate master craftsmanship and live storytelling by Penang-based performing group, Wak Long Music & Art Centre. The tale begins as Maharisi Mata Api sets an extraordinary archery challenge to choose a husband for his daughter, Siti Dewi. Whoever shoots a single arrow through 40 tar trees wins her hand in marriage. Prince Sri Rama accomplishes the feat, sparking fierce jealousy from the tyrant Rawana that leads to Siti Dewi's abduction. Watch the dramatic narrative unfold through light, shadow, and traditional heritage performance.
This programme is a collaboration with international festival partner, George Town Festival.
2026-08-28
2026-08-29
8.30pm - 9pm
9.30pm - 10pm
free
Wak Long Music & Art Centre & George Town Festival
Waterloo Centre
About Wak Long Music & Art Centre & George Town Festival
About Wak Long Music & Art Centre
Wak Long Music & Art Centre is a cultural activity centre that is actively involved in traditional cultural performances. The centre was established by Encik Mohd Jufry bin Yusoff in 2002. His wife, Puan Norwani binti Derahim, assists him and also serves as the company’s manager. Encik Jufry was born and raised in Kelantan. He is a third-generation Wayang Kulit (shadow puppetry) leather puppet maker, having inherited the craft from his grandfather. He is also a well-known practitioner of traditional musical instruments, with more than 30 years of experience.
Wak Long Music & Art Centre is actively involved in traditional cultural performances throughout Penang, Kedah, and Perlis. Their traditional music performances include Wayang Kulit, Gamelan, folk music, Dikir Barat, Silat music, and Malay drums. The centre also presents traditional Malay dances such as Tarian Inang, Joget, Zapin, Masri, Asyik, and Makyung, as well as interactive dances such as Bamboo Dance and Kuda Kepang.
About George Town Festival
First held in 2010, George Town Festival is an annual festival held in Penang, Malaysia in honour of George Town’s inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. The annual festival celebrates the state’s diverse arts and culture scene encompassing dance, music, theatre, visual art, film, photography and more. Generally held in historic buildings, back alleys, theatres and other unique spots in the city, the annual festival has grown into a prominent event connecting festival-goers with local and international creatives.