The Reasons Why This Cabaret Show Represents the Kindness of Jogjakarta

TheIndonesia.id - Would you like to see Taylor Swift perform locally in Jogjakarta? Sure, you can. Or what about the renowned Indonesian singer Anggun C. Sasmi, who now resides in France? Yes, that’s possible too. Or perhaps you’d like to experience one of Indonesia’s divas, Titi DJ, performing with angelic wings in the song Sang Dewi? Again, that’s something we can make happen!

Look around you—the audience is singing along, cheering, remembering the lyrics, and spontaneously shouting "Love you!" while clapping, again and again, in perfect unison.

Then, take a moment to notice how we’re sitting. All the guests are seated on the second and third levels of the building, in traditional Javanese style, known as lesehan (sitting on the floor). And barefoot, as strongly recommended by the protocol—all shoes and flip-flops are stored neatly on racks.

It may seem simple, but this setup unites the spectators. It’s a reminder not to judge people by their appearances, as everyone is together in the spirit of lesehan.

What happens if some people fight for a front-row seat because their view is blocked?

Well, the management has a strict rule: first come, first served.

There’s a “war ticket” system in place for this cabaret show, which takes place at the end of each month. The tickets are sold in advance for the following week.

So, everyone has a reserved seat with their name displayed on the table—no changes allowed.

This reservation also includes a delicious dinner, snacks, and bottled water.

But what if you miss out on the “war ticket”? Don’t worry—you still have a chance by using the “go-show” technique. It’s cheaper, but meals are not included, and there’s no guarantee you’ll get the same seating arrangement. This means you might end up being separated from your friends, sitting on different levels or areas.

Regardless of whether you win or lose the ticket battle, the management insists that everyone enjoys the show in the same way. Before the modern dances and world-class impersonations (of course, all performed by talented impersonators), the audience is treated to a grand traditional dance and singing performance as the opening act.

This traditional performance, instead of lesehan seating, brings the audience into the heart of Jogjakarta’s culture, highlighting its rich cultural heritage.

Another delightful surprise from this traditional performance and throughout the cabaret is the performers themselves.

The Raminten Cabaret Show was created by Kanjeng Mas Tumenggung Tanoyo Hamijinindyo (Mr. Hamzah Sulaiman), the owner of Hamzah Batik (formerly known as Mirota Batik Malioboro). As an actor, he portrayed Raminten, a character with a distinctive identity—Javanese lady in traditional hairbuns (konde), a kebaya, and a jarik (traditional attire) on local television, Jogja TV.

Thus, the Raminten Cabaret Show was born from Mr. Hamzah Sulaiman’s love for artistic performance, especially traditional singing and dancing. The show blends these traditional elements beautifully with modern dance and music.

This cabaret also promotes equal rights in artistic expression by embracing a concept of inclusivity. It provides a platform where individuals of all gender identities can freely express themselves.

The show celebrates the inclusion of performers who break traditional gender boundaries—male artists portraying female roles or gender-diverse individuals who often face marginalization. By creating a space for these diverse performances, the cabaret ensures that everyone, regardless of their gender identity or expression, has the opportunity to showcase their talents and be accepted in the artistic world.

And don’t miss the moment when you queue up to exchange your mobile confirmation text for your ticket just hours before the show. You’ll be greeted by Miss R (or Miss Raminten), who will assist you as you wait.

It’s not Mr. Hamzah Sulaiman himself, but rather a young Raminten impersonator.

Then, after the wonderful performance of songs and dances in the Jogjakartan style, the stage comes alive with world-class impersonators performing in minus one or lip-sync. Bold and beautiful, the performers bring to life Indonesian, English, and even Hindi songs—like the unforgettable Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham featuring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hritik Roshan, and Kareena Kapoor, a beloved film from 24 years ago!