Ketphorak performances have often been held by Undip’s Indonesian Literature Study program, both independently and in collaboration with external parties. This time the Head of the Indonesian Literature Study Program, Dr. Sukarjo Waluyo, M. Hum. involved in the Kethoprak performance with the play Jaka Kendil with Wahyu Manggolo’s Kethoprak Group from Jakenan (Pati). The kethoprak performance of the play Jaka Kendil was held in Mojo Hamlet, Langenharjo Village, Margomulyo District, Pati Regency on Saturday, June 1 2024.

The character of Patih Danupati from the Tanjunganom Kingdom ruled by Sinuwun Prabu Sindunegara has been played beautifully by Dr. Sukarjo Waluyo, M. Hum. Kethoprak performances are nothing new for him, he has been involved in traditional arts for a long time and plays many roles.

Jaka Kendil as a story itself developed in many versions, especially regarding who Jaka Kendil’s parents were. In society, Jaka Kendil’s parents are generally a poor widow from a village.

Jaka Kendil, as a folk tale originating from Central Java, is full of values ​​that are still relevant throughout the ages. Through Jaka Kendil, viewers are invited to be wiser in judging someone. This story is able to remind the audience, especially in the current era of technological development, where the presence of social media makes it easier to lead public opinion, including criticizing individuals.

Mr. Mogol as Owner of the Kethoprak Wahyu Manggolo Group expressed his joy because there are still academics and researchers who are willing to go into the field and have an interest in the existence of traditional arts. In 2022, Dr. Sukarjo Waluyo, S.S., M. Hum. with Dr. Sucipto Hadi Purnomo, M.Pd. (Javanese Literature Study Program FPBS UNNES), Habib Anis Sholeh Ba’asyin (Pati Culture), and several kethoprak artists from Jogja and Pati once held a Pati Kethoprak Development Workshop for the Former Pati Residency at the Wahyu Manggolo Kethoprak Group Secretariat.

(MW)