Kelantan Performers To Stage ‘Raja Kubang Labu’ At DBP Auditorium

KOTA BHARU, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- A total of 42 Kelantan-born performers will stage the theatrical production Raja Kubang Labu in the capital this Oct 24–25, in a bid to promote traditional Kelantanese arts and culture on the national stage.

Pertubuhan Seni Rupa Jiwa deputy chairman Nik Ahmad Farhan Nik Azim said the free performance at the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Auditorium in Kuala Lumpur will feature a contemporary blend of acting, music and dance.

“This is more than entertainment. It’s a reflection of identity and heritage, retelling history and tradition through a fresh, modern lens,” he said.

Raja Kubang Labu will mark its third staging, following performances at Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) Kubang Kerian in 2023 and Prince of Songkla University in Thailand last year.

“The work by Sabri Mohd Zain drew nearly 6,000 spectators over two nights. That response convinced us it’s ready for a national platform,” he told reporters today.

Nik Ahmad Farhan added that the original script, written by Zakaria Sabri Muhammad in 1954, is one of the earliest examples of Malay theatre, rich in folklore and moral values.

“Centred on a classic tale of power, love and betrayal, the reimagined production explores a king’s inner conflict, torn between authority, humanity, vengeance and redemption,” he said.

The cast features emerging talents such as Hafiz Mustaffar, Nik Nur Shuhada and Uda Ahmad, alongside veteran actress Datuk Fauziah Nawi.

Presented in an experimental format, the production relies solely on the physical expressions, without props or technical aids, to enhance authenticity and raw emotional depth.

The project is supported by the Cultural Sector Support Grant under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, DBP and the Kelantan State Department of Culture and Arts, as part of efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s performing arts ecosystem.

“We’re targeting over 700 attendees across the two nights,” said Nik Ahmad Farhan.

Free tickets are available via www.ticket2u.com.my/event/46192/teater-eksperimental-raja-kubang-labu.

-- BERNAMA