On Monday. December 16, 2024, English Literature Program held another BI-Weekly Forum with an interesting theme of Theatre in Vietnam as Critique of the Environmental and Social Crisis. This forum was a part of a routine program that aimed to provide new insights for students. The forum was held online via Zoom Meeting from 13.30 to 15.30 WIB and presented by a speaker from Hanoi University, Dr. Cao Xuan Thuc Anh.

The event was opened by singing the Indonesia Raya anthem and then continued with a welcome speech from the Head of English Literature Program, Dr. Ulyati Retno Sari M.Hum. who said that this forum was a form of implementation of collaboration between UIN Sunan Kalijaga English Literature Program and English Department of Hanoi University and was expected to be able to provide new insights and knowledge for the audiences and expand networking. A special speech was also delivered by the Dean of the Faculty of Adab and Cultural Sciences, Prof. Dr. Nurdin, S.Ag., S.S., M.A. who expressed his appreciation for the implementation of this event and hoped that this event would provide benefits for the audiences and could participate in making scientific contributions through existing social issues such as the topic raised.

In the main session hosted by moderator Dr. Dwi Margo Yuwono M.Hum., Dr. Cao Xuan Thuc Anh explained how theatre in Vietnam, especially “The Kitchen Gods” became a reflection of social and environmental issues in the country. “The Kitchen Gods” was a Vietnamese legend made into an annual comedy theatre to welcome the Lunar New Year. The show aired on national television and drew attention because it combined traditional legends with current social issues. During her presentation, Dr. Cao Xuan Thuc Anh also provided a video of a theatre performance of The Kitchen Gods, that used famous songs to parody economic issues. She explained that this performance was not only a form of criticism but also an effort to make people more aware and care about social and environmental issues in a fun and entertaining way.

This forum was attended by more than 90 English Literature students from batch 2021 to 2023 who showed their enthusiasm through participation in the Q&A session. The enthusiasm can be seen from questions about why comedy theatre is chosen as an option, and the audience’s interest in social issues in Vietnam making the discussion exciting and adding insights into the topics discussed. The event ended with a photo session with the speakers, moderator, and all forum participants. (Azki)