Gema Rimba Dance, A Nature-Inspired Performance by Prastikasmara Studio

RRI.CO.ID, Batang - Hundreds of children and teenagers from the Prastikasmara Arts Studio took to the stage at the Ballroom of the Batang Industropolis Special Economic Zone (KEK), Central Java, on Sunday, January 25, 2026.

The studio presented a series of performances designed to promote character education, cooperation, and environmental awareness.

The event demonstrated that traditional arts remain a relevant medium of learning for the younger generation.

Through a collaborative dance and puppet drama titled Gema Rimba Segara, the performance served as both an evaluation platform and a creative space for children to express themselves while honing discipline, sensitivity, and teamwork. A total of 120 students aged 5 to 18 participated after three months of intensive training.

Berta Avin Prastika, owner of the Prastikasmara Arts Studio, explained that Gema Rimba Segara was conceived as an educational work closely tied to environmental issues.

The story, which depicts a conflict between King Gambiro Murko and forest dwellers, symbolizes resistance against greed and instills values of togetherness and responsibility for preserving nature from an early age. “Through this collaborative drama of dance and wayang, children not only learn dance techniques but also understand the moral messages they convey on stage,” he said, as quoted by infopublik.id.

In addition to the drama, the studio showcased several creative dances, including Tikus Pithi, Pangpung, Geol Denok, and Taro Oglek. These works form part of a gradual learning process that requires consistent practice and unity among performers.

One of the dancers, Ayuni, admitted that the training process was not always easy, particularly when coordinating movements with others. Yet she said the challenges fostered patience and responsibility. “We learn to adapt to each other, not to be selfish,” she said.

Tri Adi Susanto, Secretary of the Batang Regency Education and Culture Agency, praised the studio’s contribution to sustaining regional arts and culture through creative and innovative works. “Art and culture are the identity and character of a community. Through the collaboration of dance and wayang, noble values and character education can be instilled in the younger generation in a creative and relevant way,” he said.

He also noted that staging the performance in an industrial area symbolized the coexistence of economic development and cultural preservation. He emphasized that art plays a strategic role in shaping human resources with strong character and deep roots in local values.

Through this performance, the Prastikasmara Arts Studio not only showcased its artistic achievements but also reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing a creative, environmentally conscious, and culturally proud young generation.

The Batang Regency Administration hopes the initiative will strengthen public appreciation for regional arts and culture and encourage greater involvement of young people in preserving and developing cultural traditions. The effort is part of the regency’s vision to build an independent and competitive Batang by integrating industry and culture. ***