By: Rosli Mansor Ahmad Razali
IPOH – Theatre enthusiasts should not miss the opportunity to watch the Musical Theatre “Cicit Wan Lebo” (TMCWL), set to be staged from September 26 to 28, 2024, by the Perak Tengah Arts and Artists Association.
Director Amran Nasrudin revealed that TMCWL will be performed at the Dewan Ngah Sagor, Parit, in conjunction with the Wan Lebo Carnival.
“This production tells the story of the community in Kampung Ekor, Bota, during the 1970s, featuring the legendary figure Wan Lebo, who has been celebrated in Perak folklore through oral storytelling and the popular classic song ‘Wan Labo.
“I have illustrated the character of Wan Lebo by showcasing the uniqueness of this figure and incorporating the Central Perak dialect throughout the performance.
“The cast includes local talents from Perak, such as Mubarak Majid, Anne Zahurin, and Reza Hastbi, with special appearances by Datuk Imuda, Zarina Zainudin, and Raisuddin Hamzah,” he said during a press conference for the TMCWL Launch at the Perak State Department of Culture and Arts (JKKN Perak) recently.
Also present was the Director of the Perak State Department of Culture and Arts, Abd. Rashid Abdullah, Producer of Cicit Wan Lebo, Syed Jaafar Syed Walad, and Theatre Program Advisor, Dato’ Mohd Nizar Haji Zakaria.
Amran further explained that TMCWL depicts Wan Esah, also known as Wan Lebo, a renowned village midwife skilled in storytelling through verses, poetry, and traditional remedies.
“Wan Lebo is also known for her ability to treat ailments through traditional medicine. The production explores the clash between traditional and modern medical practices, highlighting the role of village midwives, who were once sidelined by modern practitioners.
“Ultimately, this traditional practice has been embraced by modern medical experts as part of contemporary medicine, with a focus on natural herbal remedies.
“The play also addresses the emergence of male obstetricians, which has sparked debate among religious scholars. Cicit Wan Lebo takes a bold step in continuing her ancestor’s legacy as a midwife, determined to carry on the heritage after Wan Lebo’s passing,” he added.
For further information, contact 012-581 2465 (Byed Jaafar), 017-5517647 (Cikgu Rashidi), or 011-63039855 (Secretariat).
