Theatre show Randai Macbeth, produced by the Centre for Traditional Performing Arts (PuTRA) of the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (Aswara), will be staged at the IX International Theatre and Education Festival-Forum (Nauruz) in Kazan, Russia on June 15 and 16.
It reimagines Shakespeare’s Macbeth as a cross-cultural work blending Minangkabau and Malay traditions with Western theatre. Randai, linked to the Minangkabau of Negri Sembilan, is a West Sumatran form combining theatre, dance, music and silat.
The performance coincides with Kazan’s selection as the Cultural Capital of the Islamic World 2026, positioning the city as a key venue for festivals and forums involving Islamic nations throughout the year.
Its producer and Dean of PuTRA ASWARA, Mohd Kamarulzaman Taib, better known as Che Kem, said the participation presents a valuable opportunity to introduce Malay cultural heritage to international audiences, particularly those in Russia and the surrounding region.
"The selection of Randai Macbeth to represent Malaysia is particularly meaningful because it is an intercultural production that blends a Western literary work within the framework of Malay tradition.
"What is even more gratifying is that Randai Macbeth was chosen after undergoing a rigorous evaluation process, with organisers selecting only two countries for this year’s edition - Malaysia and Morocco,” he said.
The festival, organised by the Galiasgar Kamal Tatar State Academic Theatre, aims to strengthen ties among international theatre practitioners through the exchange of creative experiences and the enhancement of aesthetic standards in theatrical productions.
The participation also continues efforts to strengthen creative industry cooperation between Malaysia and Russia following the attendance of Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot at the 17th International Economic Forum (KazanForum) in May.
Mohd Kamarulzaman said the Malaysian delegation, comprising 32 members, will be in Russia from June 12-19 under full sponsorship from the organisers, with support from the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
"Representing Malaysia is a great responsibility, but we are immensely proud of the commitment shown by the production team in carrying out this cultural mission for the country,” he said.
Randai Macbeth, a Bahasa Malaysia language production, premiered in 2024 at Aswara’s Black Box theatre under the direction of Dr Norzizi Zulkifli, featuring a cast of seasoned theatre performers including Juhara Ayob, Rosman Ishak, Eliza Mustaffa, Amer Amizan, Adika Zainal, Ijat Ashari and Che Kem in the title role.
Last year, the production won eight awards at the 20th Boh Cameronian Arts Awards, including the prestigious Best Production category.
Ahead of its departure to Russia, the production also enjoyed remarkable success, with all tickets sold out during its staging at The Esplanade as part of Singapore’s Pesta Raya festival in April, as well as during its Kuala Lumpur restaging last month. - Bernama
