To promote enthusiasm for literature and art, the Theater Student Activity Unit (UKM Teater Takdir) at Universitas Dian Nusantara (UNDIRA) successfully staged a drama and poetry performance as part of its anniversary celebration and World Theater Day commemoration on February 15th 2025. The event, held at the Auditorium, 6th Floor, Tanjung Duren Campus, West Jakarta, carried the theme Limitless Creativity, Artistic Expression.

The event was officially opened with the striking of a gong by Milq Nur Fazriah and Feni Wahyuni, who served as Moderators and MCs for the event. This was followed by remarks from Suparyadi, S.Sos., M.I.Kom., the Head of the Communication Science Laboratory and a permanent lecturer at UNDIRA. In his speech, he expressed appreciation for the accomplishments of the UNDIRA Theater Club. According to him, performances are a form of thought expression for students, with literature and storytelling being positive and creative ways to drive global intellectual discourse.

Similar sentiments were shared by the special guest and Head of UNDIRA Library Bureau, Mr. Rengga Sendrian, M.Hum. He highlighted how students can convey various aspirations in creative and unique ways. Theater performances, in his words, act as a window for expressing hopes and bridging societal gaps.

In their speech, Rahmi Yuli Hendri, the Chairman of Production of Teater Takdir, emphasized that the event was not merely an anniversary celebration but also a platform to showcase boundless creativity in the performing arts. “We aim to create a space for young artists to continue expressing themselves and inspire many people through theater,” thus spoke Rahmi.

Following the opening segment, the event seamlessly transitioned into the poetry recital by UNDIRA Theater members. The recited poems collectively addressed themes of social critique.

After much anticipation, the highlight of the event unfolded—a drama performance titled “Ayahku Pulang” (My Father Returns). This production, adapted from the work of Usmar Ismail, was a theatrical script rooted in realities observed within Indonesia.

The story centers around social issues in family life, portraying a father named Raden Saleh who leaves his family behind to work in Singapore. While Raden Saleh achieves success abroad, his family back home struggles in poverty. His eldest son, Gunanto, is forced to become the family's sole breadwinner.

Twenty years later, Raden Saleh decides to return home. Though warmly welcomed by his family and wife, Gunanto rejects his father, harboring deep resentment for the loss of his youthful years caused by Raden Saleh's absence. In a poignant twist, overwhelmed by sorrow, Raden Saleh takes his own life by throwing himself into a river. Gunanto eventually realizes that his bitterness cost his father's life, leaving him in regret.

The performance delivered profound social messages, depicting how society often views wealth as the ultimate goal, leading individuals to abandon family for material gain. It also emphasized the importance of forgiveness and not judging individuals based solely on past actions. In the end, disappointment often only reveals itself after events have passed.

As the Maghrib prayer call marked the day’s end, the UNDIRA Theater Club concluded the event with a communal iftar gathering and photo session with attendees. This activity highlighted the creativity of the UNDIRA Theater Club in expressing heartfelt messages through poetry and drama about various social issues. In conclusion, literature serves as an elegant and meaningful channel for inner voices, Salam Literatur.