10 June 2026
Anita Kartika Pasaribu
On Wednesday, June 10, 2026, the Undergraduate Study Program of Ethnomusicology, Faculty of Cultural Sciences (FIB), Universitas Sumatera Utara (USU), successfully staged a Batak Toba traditional theatre performance titled “Sibisuk” at the FIB Performance Hall. This event was part of the implementation of Project-Based Learning (PBL) in the Practical Theatre of North Sumatra course, aimed at developing students’ comprehensive abilities in understanding, managing, and performing traditional theatrical arts.
The performance, which ran from 09:30 to 12:00 WIB, received a warm response from lecturers, students, cultural observers, and invited guests. Through this production, students not only demonstrated acting and artistic skills but also showed a deep understanding of the cultural values embedded in Batak Toba traditional theatre.
The event was officially opened by Dr. Zulfan, S.S., M.Hum., Vice Dean for Education, Student Affairs, and Alumni Relations of FIB USU. In his remarks, he emphasized the importance of integrating cultural heritage into academic learning processes, particularly in shaping students’ character, creativity, and cultural identity. He also expressed appreciation for the students’ creativity in transforming traditional arts into meaningful academic performances.
The program continued with remarks from Dra. Rithaony, M.A., Head of the Study Program, who stated that such activities are essential in strengthening students’ competencies, particularly in creativity, teamwork, and performing arts production management. She also highlighted the importance of preserving local cultural arts through practice-based learning approaches.
The activity was supervised by Drs. Yoe Anto Ginting, M.A., the course lecturer, and assisted by theatre practitioner Mukhlis Win Ariyoga, S.S. Their involvement provided students with a more comprehensive and applied learning experience in traditional performing arts.
In this performance, the story of “Sibisuk” was presented as a reflection of Batak Toba community values, rich in moral messages, local wisdom, and strong social relationships within society. Through a compelling storyline, communicative dialogue, and strong artistic and musical support, the performance successfully created an authentic Batak Toba cultural atmosphere for the audience.
In addition to acting, students were actively involved in the entire production process, including concept development, scriptwriting, stage management, artistic design, music arrangement, and event promotion. This Project-Based Learning approach allowed students to integrate theoretical knowledge gained in class with real-world practical experience.
The organizing committee stated that the performance served as an effective learning platform to enhance collaboration, creativity, leadership, and performing arts production management skills. Furthermore, it also represented students’ contribution to cultural preservation through academic and artistic approaches.
The students’ performance received positive appreciation from the audience. The stage design, costumes, lighting, and musical accompaniment further strengthened the traditional atmosphere of the “Sibisuk” performance.
Through the staging of the Batak Toba Traditional Theatre “Sibisuk,” the Ethnomusicology Study Program of FIB USU reaffirmed its commitment to preserving and developing local cultural arts as part of Indonesia’s cultural heritage. This activity is expected to inspire younger generations to continue learning about, appreciating, and safeguarding Indonesia’s cultural legacy amid ongoing global developments.
The event concluded with an appreciation session and a group photo involving lecturers, students, and the entire production team as a form of recognition for their hard work and dedication in successfully staging the performance.
FIB USU Ethnomusicology Students Stage Batak Toba Traditional Theatre “Sibisuk”
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