Sanggar Lestari - Tanah Air

Sanggar Lestari

Tanah Air

Tanah Air, literally translates from Indonesian to soil and sea – a fitting title to explore the journey through the Indonesian archipelago. It is an important phrase which is used as a way to say ‘homeland’. This video brings together local Indonesian cultural group Sanggar Lestari with music produced by our friend, Swerv and our own, Photius Drakos.

The idea first started with a musical experimentation that sampled Indonesian music to contemporise traditional instrumentation with a modern sound. Sanggar Lestari fell in love with the idea, and we decided to create a film showcasing the diversity of Indonesian culture and traditional dance. Guided by Sanggar Lestari’s head honcho Ningsih Angkotasan Millan (Mama Ning), we were in the best hands. Through our research we discovered a collection of early 20th century postcards, from which we took visual cues for the film, even to the extent of carefully recreating, sets, costumes, and the typefaces of the era. Most importantly Mama Ning ensured we understood and honoured the cultural significance of each regional dance and their specific expressions.

DETAILS
Runtime: 3'33
Partners: Sanggar Lestari
Location: Melbourne, Australia
Release Date: 15 June 2020

CREW
Director: Photius Drakos
Creative Director: Photius Drakos
Producers: Deena Kiswoyo (Sanggar Lestari) & Jason Ng
Camera: Paul Huynh
Sound: Swerv & Photius Drakos

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