Indonesia Culture Night (ICN) Cultural Production has been a platform for Indonesian students at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) to tell stories celebrating Indonesian heritage through musical drama in Singapore.

Every year, a story is written, a stage is rebuilt, and the curtain is lifted once again. While each performance may differ, the purpose remains the same. Rooted in the pride of preserving cultural legacy, a new story returns in a different form, finding its expression once again through movement, music, and a shared sense of belonging within a familiar community.

Since 2007, Indonesia Culture Night (ICN) Cultural Production has been a platform for Indonesian students at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) to tell stories celebrating Indonesian heritage through musical drama in Singapore. From then on, ICN has continuously presented newly titled productions, such as 'Pahlawan' (2011), 'Neutralegni' (2013), and 'Kaharsa' (2024), each exploring different themes and narrative approaches. Though the intention remains the same, every production introduces new ideas, narratives, and interpretations through different storyline and settings reaching diverse audiences.

Each production is a journey itself. Rehearsals often last until late at night. Many set aside time from their demanding university lives to take part in the production, but despite the long hours, these moments are often accompanied by a sense of ease. Beyond what is seen on stage, many hands contribute to bringing ICN to life. The shared responsibility within their roles and the sense of community formed away from home create a unique and wholesome bond.

On 14 February 2026, ICN returned once again, becoming the new chapter in this ongoing journey. This year's production explores the themes of love, ambition, and social injustice through musical drama set in 1970s Indonesia. Ranging from traditional dances such as 'gringsing' from Central Java, to cultural heritage like batik, ICN showcases the diverse legacy of Indonesia with the collaboration of contemporary narrative.

Held in Drama Center Theater, ICN 2026 presents a new story set in Laweyan, Surakarta. Titled 'Amerta', the production follows Arum, a determined journalist uncovering the exploitation of batik workers and her unexpected connection with Abimana, a quiet and thoughtful poet. Their personal conflict unfolds alongside broader societal tensions, reinforcing ICN’s role not only as a cultural performance, but as a space where heritage becomes a lens for reflection, allowing stories from the past to speak meaningfully to the present.

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Author: Ghaliza Pratiwi Ramadhanti (Indonesian student at Nanyang Technological University)