Steeped in Tradition, Modern in Outlook

By GOH EE KOON

The turquoise folds on the roof and the intricate design of the foyer are just two of the features that take the breath of viewers and visitors away. Istana Budaya is, after all, a national theatre and the venue for not only local but international, acts too.  Even when it is not playing host to any performance, Istana Budaya’s architecture has intrigued experts and academics. Visually, it has much to offer...

The inspiration for the complex’s aesthetic interest is derived from the cut and position of a traditional moon kite in flight. Architect Muhammad Kamar Ya’akub’s ideas strongly reflect the Malay tradition. In the main building, for instance, the layout takes the form of the sirih junjuung, a traditional arrangement of betel leaves used at Malay weddings and welcoming ceremonies. This traditional exterior, though, is said to have one of the most sophisticated theatres in the world.

The building is divided by function, just like a Malay house, into three sections. There is the serambi or the lobby and foyer, the rumah ibu, which is the auditorium and the rumah dapur or kitchen which serves as the stage and rehearsal hall. Inside, Langkawi marble tiles the floors, while tropical wood is used for the doors, featuring hand-carved flower and leaf motifs. Lush carpets in the serambi area are of the frangipani flower and the beringin tree. In the auditorium, there are royal boxes on each side, patterned after the windows of a Malay house. The entrance to the theatre, too, replicates a palace’s main hall, or the Balairong Seri and is said to be modelled after one in Malacca.

The theatre lobby on the third floor extends the influence of Malay culture, taking the shape of the rebana ubi or traditional drum. The auditorium itself seats about 1,412 people, including 797 in the stalls on the first floor, 312 in the grand circle on the second floor and 303 people in the upper circle. The orchestra pit, when it is not in use, can take in 98 people.

While there seems to be a large number of stairs, the disabled can take heart. Istana Budaya has wheelchair facilities, including a ramp into the foyer, a lift with easy-to-reach buttons and an area designated for the handicapped. Restrooms for the disabled are also found at both the stalls and grand circle areas. Additionally, there is also a costume gallery featuring clothes from Malay traditional theatre. The costumes are from Bangsawan, Mak Yong, Ajat Bebunuh, Layang Emas and Bambarayon performances, among others.

What's coming up next

THE story about a cruel Chinese princess, a valiant prince and a tragic slave girl come to life when an international production brings Puccini’s last opera, Turandot, to Istana Budaya. Scheduled to be held from Dec 19 to 21 at 8.30pm, this is the concluding performance for the 2003 season.

Turandot is the beautiful Chinese princess with a heart of stone who asks her suitors three riddles. However, if they fail to give the correct answers, they lose their life. As the story goes, Prince Calaf takes up the challenge, and the opera is the story of how he conquers her in the end – but with a price.

Turandot will feature a strong cast from Malaysia, as well as principal singers from Taiwan, Great Britain, Italy, Australia, Japan, Portugal and Belgium. Tickets are from RM50 and are sold via www.axcess.com.my

How to get there

EASILY accessible, Istana Budaya’s position along busy Jalan Tun Razak means that it can be reached by public and private means of transportation. If you drive, take Jalan Ipoh or Jalan Pahang before turning into Jalan Tun Razak. Upon reaching the building, turn into Jalan Kuantan that leads to the car park.

If you are coming from the east of the city, make your way to Jalan Tun Razak and proceed until the Jalan Pahang roundabout where you make a full turn back to get to the other side. Parking is free.

Taxis and buses also ply the area. Get off at the bus stop in front of the Tawakal Medical Centre along Jalan Pahang. From there, cross the road (use the overhead pedestrian bridge) and proceed to Persiaran Titiwangsa 3. This should take about 15 minutes on foot.

Buses include Intrakota no. 10, 49 and 49A.       

Istana Budaya is also accessible by way of LRT. Take the routes to Kampung Baru (if you use Putra) and the Titiwangsa (for STAR) stations. It should be a relatively short taxi ride away from the stations.