Indonesia Visits Midland

On Sunday evening, the Midland Cultural Centre was visited by the Consul General of Indonesia, his wife and two children, and a troop of some 40 entertainers and musicians. The night was simply magical!

Like all visits with national dignitaries, exchanging gifts is de rigeur. Fred Hacker, Chair of the MCC, presented the Consul General with a beautiful Jan Phelan vase - truly a work of art. The Consul General presented the mayor a traditional wayang kulit (shadow puppet). These puppets have been used to entertain residents of the archipelago for centuries.

The performance started with an ensemble of some 12 musicians. Many of the instruments were percussion, similar to a heavy xylophone. The most impressive instrument was an array of bell-like objects called a "gamelan". These are struck, producing the haunting bell-like tones that we associate with South Asian islands. The dancing group followed and was simply awesome. They performed intricate timed manoeuvers that defied belief. The standing ovation by some 200 attendees was certainly merited.

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The performance too quickly drew to a close. The party moved out into the atrium where Midland met Indonesia face-to-face. Stories were exchanged and laughter was heard over traditional foods and beverages. With promises to return again next year, our newfound relationship with the Indonesian people is off to a friendly start.