INFOBUDAYA.NET — Lenong Betawi is a traditional theatrical art form from Jakarta, representing a significant part of the Betawi community’s cultural identity. This performance art, which dates back to the late 19th or early 20th century, combines elements of drama, traditional music, dance, and characteristic humor. Legend has it that the name “Lenong” comes from a Chinese merchant named Lien Ong, who frequently hosted theatrical performances to entertain his family and the local community. From these informal performances, the term “Lenong” emerged and has since become part of Betawi heritage.

In its early days, Lenong was performed in the simplest way—open-air, without a proper stage or sophisticated equipment. The performances often involved one of the actors walking among the audience to collect voluntary donations. Initially used as a form of street entertainment, Lenong gradually gained recognition as a legitimate performing art with aesthetic and moral value.

A major turning point for Lenong came after Indonesia’s independence. In the 1970s, Lenong performances became more formal and were regularly staged at venues such as Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM), Jakarta. The performances also became shorter, lasting two to three hours instead of going all night. Lenong gained broader popularity through television broadcasts, particularly on TVRI, which introduced legendary performers such as Situ, Bokir, and Nasir to a nationwide audience. From street shows, Lenong evolved into a beloved folk theater.

A typical Lenong performance starts with an instrumental march to attract the audience, followed by entertaining musical numbers, and finally the main theatrical story. The themes in Lenong initially revolved around royal life but eventually shifted to more relatable, everyday stories. There are two main types of Lenong: Lenong Denes and Lenong Preman. Lenong Denes tends to be more formal, using refined Malay and depicting nobility, while Lenong Preman focuses on the lives of common people, featuring casual language and contemporary social themes. Popular characters like Si Pitung and Jampang Jago Betawi come from the Lenong Preman tradition.

Despite its popularity, Lenong has faced many challenges, including declining public interest in favor of modern entertainment. However, efforts to preserve Lenong continue. One of the key figures in this preservation is Tutur Denes, a practitioner and director of Lenong Betawi. He traveled to South Kalimantan to trace the forgotten roots of Lenong and uncover literature and surviving performers who had moved there. Inspired by these findings, he initiated a revival of Lenong Denes, combining traditional Betawi theater with modern elements to appeal to a wider audience.

One such performance, “Lakon Lenong Denes Nyi Pohaci,” was held at Taman Ismail Marzuki on June 1, 2023. The show captivated the audience by blending classic Betawi dialogue and humorous rhymes with a visually dynamic stage, detailed costumes, and an engaging soundtrack that fused traditional instruments like the gambang kromong with modern ones like electric drums, keyboards, electric guitars, and saxophones. This innovative adaptation proved successful in attracting younger viewers, a demographic increasingly accustomed to sitcoms and online entertainment.

Tutur Denes and his community understand that cultural identity is fragile in the face of globalization. Without adaptation, traditional art forms risk fading away. Through storytelling innovations, such as reinterpreting timeless tales like “Romeo and Juliet” with a Betawi twist, Lenong is being reshaped to stay relevant. The community has also become more inclusive, welcoming not only those of Betawi descent but also people from diverse backgrounds who share a passion for preserving this cultural treasure. Members now include university graduates, students, and office workers, all united by their dedication to Lenong.

Although Lenong has yet to become a sustainable source of income for its performers—many still rely on other jobs—there is a growing optimism. Plans are underway to bring Lenong to the international stage, where it could serve as a form of cultural diplomacy and promote Indonesian heritage abroad.

Today’s Lenong has also adapted in terms of duration. While in the past performances would last an entire night, modern Lenong typically runs for 30 to 120 minutes. Indeed, Lenong needs to evolve with the times while remaining true to its roots. For instance, traditional music accompaniment like gambang kromong must be preserved to maintain authenticity. Even small traditions—such as actors entering from one side of the stage and exiting from the other—are still followed to uphold the original style.

Lenong should not be viewed merely as entertainment, but also as a powerful medium to introduce Betawi culture to both locals and tourists in Jakarta. Historically, Lenong performers were selected individuals from within the cultural community, which made the art somewhat exclusive and led to a generational gap in its continuation. Now, the doors are open for anyone who wants to be part of this legacy.

Reference:

PDBI – Lenong