KBRN, Yogyakarta: When she was a child, Sri Lestari never had a dream of becoming a kethoprak (traditional Javanese drama) artist.

At first, she only enjoyed watching, then learning and finally become a kethoprak player. From this path, her life opened up. She was accepted as an employee at the Public Broadcasting Institution Radio Republic Indonesia (LPP RRI) Yogyakarta.

"Initially, I simply found pleasure in watching kethoprak shows, but eventually I became curious and decided to participate,” she said.

Sri Lestari diligently learned to play it in from senior kethoprak artists. Thanks to her dedication, she gained a good reputation as a kethoprak performer.

Numerous invitations came to her to perform kethoprak both in Yogyakarta and nearby regions, including outside of Java Island. “I am grateful for all that," she added.

Although Sri Lestari has retired as an employee of LPP RRI Yogyakarta in 2022, her artistic soul has not diminished. She joined RRI Yogyakarta's Keluarga Kesenian Jawa (Javanese Artist Family) association.

She said, an employee could retire, but not an artist. "As long as my performance is still accepted by the community, I will perform," said the smiling woman.

The performer has also been actively fostering young generation through the Sleman Kethoprak Community (KKS). She feels proud because young generations of kethoprak performers have emerged. She is optimistic that this traditional art will continue to develop and be preserved.

"As elders, it is our responsibility to guide and assist young artists to the right track,” she said. ***