Teater Muzikal Duzung: Adaptasi Cerita Rakyat dalam Pelestarian Warisan Budaya dan Kepercayaan Etnik Rungus

(The Musical Theatre of Duzung: A Folktale Adaptation For Preserving Rungus Cultural Heritage and Beliefs)

Abstract

ABSTRAK

Kajian ini menganalisis usaha pelestarian warisan budaya dan kepercayaan etnik Rungus menerusi adaptasi cerita rakyat dalam teater muzikal Duzung. Cerita rakyat ini mengetengahkan identiti unik masyarakat Rungus, meliputi aspek kepercayaan tradisional, struktur sosial, serta warisan budaya seperti adat perkahwinan, tarian, muzik, busana, aksesori, dan rekaan pentas. Proses adaptasi tersebut mentransformasikan naratif tradisional kepada bentuk persembahan kontemporari yang didaktik, seterusnya berfungsi sebagai medium memperkukuh jati diri generasi muda Rungus. Kajian ini bertujuan menganalisis elemen budaya dan kepercayaan tradisi Rungus dalam persembahan berkenaan. Menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif, data diperoleh melalui kajian kepustakaan, pemerhatian lapangan, temu bual berfokus, dan analisis rakaman audiovisual. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahawa pementasan Duzung bukan sahaja efektif dalam memelihara warisan Rungus, malah memupuk perpaduan nasional melalui kefahaman dan penghargaan terhadap kepelbagaian budaya Malaysia. Ringkasnya, adaptasi cerita rakyat ke teater muzikal terbukti sebagai strategi pemeliharaan budaya yang dinamik dan relevan. Implikasinya, kejayaan Duzung berpotensi memacu pelancongan budaya serta menjadi model rujukan pemuliharaan warisan etnik minoriti di Malaysia.

ABSTRACT

This study analyses the preservation of the cultural heritage and traditional beliefs of the Rungus ethnic community through the adaptation of folklore in the musical theatre Duzung. The folklore highlights the distinctive identity of the Rungus community, encompassing traditional beliefs, social structure, and cultural heritage, including marriage customs, dance, music, traditional costumes, accessories, and stage design. The adaptation transforms the traditional narrative into a contemporary theatrical performance with a didactic purpose, serving as a medium to strengthen the cultural identity of the younger Rungus generation. The study aims to analyse the cultural elements and traditional beliefs of the Rungus represented in the performance. Adopting a qualitative approach, data were collected through a literature review, field observation, focused interviews, and audiovisual recording analysis. The findings indicate that the Duzung performance is not only effective in preserving Rungus cultural heritage but also contributes to fostering national unity by promoting understanding and appreciation of Malaysia's cultural diversity. In conclusion, the adaptation of folklore into musical theatre has proven to be a dynamic and relevant strategy for cultural preservation. The success of Duzung also demonstrates its potential to promote cultural tourism and serve as a reference model for the preservation of minority ethnic heritage in Malaysia.