Thousands of artists united in a stunning performance that brought Nusantara’s stories to life through music, dance, and visuals

Sabang Merauke – The Indonesian Broadway 2025 officially opened with the theme Hikayat Nusantara at Indonesia Arena, Senayan, on Friday, August 22, 2025. The spectacular show featured a stage twice the size of last year’s and amazed thousands of spectators with its impressive visual presentation. Following the premiere, the performances continued on August 23 and 24, with two shows each day.

Over 1,500 artists from different generations participated in this grand production. Dancers, singers, orchestral musicians, and costume designers all came together on a theatrical stage that seamlessly combined music, dance, drama, and world-class visuals. Preparations began at the end of 2024 through auditions, national dance competitions, and public parades, culminating in a team of 351 dancers, 60 orchestral musicians, dozens of national singers, and a creative team ready to bring Nusantara’s folk tales to life.

This year’s edition highlighted legendary tales such as Malin Kundang, Yuyu Kangkang, Si Tumah Mahadewi, and Calon Arang. These stories were brought to life through 31 songs, over 100 choreographies, and 800 dancer costumes, complemented by 40 special vocal performances. Yura Yunita and Padi Reborn brought the story of Mahadewi to life, with Yura Yunita delivering a spectacular performance flying above a giant dragon, leaving the audience in awe.

The spirit of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika was strongly reflected on stage. Classic characters such as Bagong (Indra Bekti) and Petruk (Risang Janur Wendo) guided the story with humor, while Semar confronted latent threats to Indonesia’s traditional arts and culture. Traditional dances including Tari Saman, Lompat Batu Nias, and Reog Ponorogo, along with additional attractions like Barongsai Kong Ha Hong and the Shang Aerial Show, enhanced the show’s grandeur.

Regional and national music was masterfully re-arranged by the Jakarta Concert Orchestra, supported by vocal collaborations from the Batavia Madrigal Singers and The Resonanz Children’s Choir, adding depth to the theatrical experience. Costumes, created in collaboration with Jember Fashion Carnaval and Pesona Gondanglegi, blended traditional elements with modern touches. Regional songs such as Manuk Dadali, Bungong Jeumpa, Injit Injit Semut, and Butet were performed with precision, reinforcing the show’s educational and cultural value.

Sabang Merauke 2025 captivated audiences with a remarkable mix of culture, music, and visual spectacle. While the performance felt like a combination of a cultural carnival and a grand artistic showcase, it successfully highlighted the richness and diversity of Nusantara in a truly spectacular way.

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