Bali Agung Getting Close

Denpasar (Antara Bali) - Excitement is building as the opening of Bali’s new gigantic theatre draws near and it’s spectacular ‘must see’ production is almost ready for its world premier.

Famed international director, Peter J Wilson has been rehearsing the 150 strong casts while other acclaimed creators have been combining their talents to tell the tragic love story of three of Bali’s most historically revered figures.

The blending of the famous Balinese story with spectacular state-of-the-art western theatrical effects is producing an epic programme that is scheduled to be publicly premiered on August 31st.

According to officials who have witnessed rehearsals, the dramatic stage effects are adding magic to the show without in anyway diminishing the long standing cultural aspect of the story.

One of the reasons behind this is creative director Peter Wilson’s fascination with Balinese culture and his long time collaboration with one of Bali’s most acclaimed puppet artists, I Made Sidia.

The two have combined on projects in several overseas countries but this is their first joint venture in Indonesia.

Wilson’s career spans more than 35 years in the entertainment industry where he has been responsible for successfully staging major shows in Australia, Europe, Asia and the United States of America.

Peter has gathered around him a team that share similar beliefs to his own and that have worked with him before.

They including award winning production designer Richard Jeziorny who has been associated with all types of stage productions from puppets, musical comedy to grand opera.

Acclaimed composer Chong Lim whose musical scores have accompanied many films and theatrical productions is the shows musical director.

Choreographer Ian Knowles comes to Bali fresh from working on the spectacular ‘Colours of Malaysia’ and lighting director Phillip Lethlean joined the team after working on the World Expo in Shanghai, China.

“They are an incredible talented group of individuals whose combined skills are blending together to present a show that people will be talking about for years to come,” Peter said.

He explained that each and every person was dedicated to making sure that western influence would enhance the production and not diminish or change the Balinese cultural heritage or art form.

“Take Chong Lim as an example, he has worked with Balinese gamelan musicians to blend their talents to a background played by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra," Peter said.

“Now we have a fully rounded score which highlights the importance of the local musicians who will be playing live during the performances. This enhances the production without in anyway diminishing the local talents historic ability and cultural heritage,” Peter said.

He concluded, the philosophy was shared by everyone working on the production.

While talking with Peter, one can hear a constant hum of activity in the background. 
Dozens of technicians are working on the lighting and sound side of the show as other people scurry about for final adjustments to their lavish costume as prop makers finish their appointed tasks. (*)