SIBU: The troupe performing the special musical theatre for Sarawak Day is ready to wow the audience tomorrow (July 22).
Director Syafaat Zainal Abidin said the musical theatre, which is written by Zulfadly Kipli, highlighted historical events leading up to Sarawak’s independence and prominent figures like Rosli Dhoby, Datuk Ajibah Abol and Tan Sri Datuk Amar Stephen Kalong Ningkan, among others.
“With Sibu selected as the venue to host this year’s Sarawak Day celebration, we want to highlight the contributions made by Sarawak nationalists like Rosli Dhoby during the pre-independence period up to the formation of Malaysia and the first state Cabinet,” he said when met at Sibu Indoor Stadium during rehearsals.
Stating that the musical would inspire and instil patriotism, he expressed hope for the audience to understand the message and be moved by the moral of the story.
“We want the young generation to appreciate the history and people behind Sarawak. Hopefully they will feel inspired and this musical theatre can enhance their spirit of patriotism.”
Syafaat said the troupe, consisting of members aged between 10 and 60, had been working well together.
“While there have been challenges along the way, they are excited to perform and showcase their talents.
“Preparations leading up to the big day have been good so far, but we can only evaluate our performance during and after actual show time.
“I would like to encourage those who are in Sibu to come and join in the celebration so that we can reflect on how far Sarawak has come as well as appreciate our founding fathers.”
Besides the musical theatre, the celebration will feature a screening of a special video titled Sarawak Makmur and performances by local artistes such as Faizal Tahir and Ricky Andrewson.
