Preserving Ludruk: The Synergy Between Artists and Government in the Preservation of Traditional Arts

Ludruk Continues to Innovate (Photo ist.)

Damariotimes. Ludruk, a traditional art form rich in cultural values, is now facing significant challenges regarding its regeneration and preservation. Efforts to preserve ludruk cannot be done alone; a synergy between artists and the government is essential to ensure this art form stays alive and evolves. One of the pressing issues is the need to prepare the next generation of ludruk artists, as most of the current performers are already elderly. Based on the author’s observations, the youngest ludruk performers in Malang are, on average, over 45 years old, and young people seem reluctant to engage in this art form.

Efforts to preserve ludruk carried out by the East Java Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism, through UPT Taman Budaya Jawa Timur and UPT Laboratory, led by Bu Evi, have not yielded satisfying results. However, as someone deeply concerned about the future of ludruk, the author hopes that the government will not give up. Hard work and consistency in finding ways to keep ludruk alive and evolving in accordance with the times are crucial.

One of the steps previously taken by the East Java Provincial Department of Culture and Tourism was to hold workshops and seminars aimed at strengthening the ludruk art form. However, these activities need to be evaluated and reconsidered. There may be aspects that need improvement or refinement to be more effective in achieving the goal of preserving ludruk. In addition, periodic performances of ludruk at Taman Krida Budaya Malang and Gedung Cak Dorasim should continue. These two venues play a vital role in providing a space to witness the development of ludruk in East Java.

To further revive ludruk, periodic performances in Malang and Surabaya should prioritize ludruk groups that are willing to progress and involve young people. The hope is that the younger generation can learn ludruk properly, according to its traditions and developments, so that this art form can continue to be preserved and passed down to future generations.

The Ludruk Workshop and Festival in East Java must also continue. These training and festival activities not only serve as a platform for development but also as a forum for meetings between artists and the government to discuss the progress and preservation of ludruk together. In these activities, it is essential to involve selected and qualified artists and cultural experts who understand the history of ludruk from the past to the present, as well as those who have a vision for the future of ludruk.

Given the numerous challenges faced by ludruk today, the government should involve local artists who can contribute forward-thinking perspectives on the advancement of ludruk. By involving them in decision-making processes, it is expected that the solutions provided will be more aligned with the needs of this traditional art form.

Only through solid collaboration between artists and the government, with mutual support, can ludruk be brought back to the community, even in this digital age. Unity and cooperation will ensure that ludruk, as an integral part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage, remains alive and thrives in line with contemporary demands.

Author: R.Dt.

Editor : MAH