ASLI - The Musical

As it stands now @ ASLI!!

2006-08-18T11:20:00.000+08:00

Workshops begin this month at KKBS. After which it will be open scripts as well as ensuring that we have the proper cast that we need. For those interested we are still sourcing for the following cast. We want those who are willing to learn as well as able to speak and understand relatively straightforward english lingo.

a) Indian shopkeeper with a bolshy attitude : 38 to 58 ( we don't mind)

b) A sinister chinese Man who is actually malay by birth : 35 -45

c) Malay veteran actors : female and Male : 30 plus

d) Ensemble who can act, dance and sing.

If you are interested then let us know or message our pub. manager @ : 8669692

Musicians may also be needed but currently we are focusing on using who we have.

Rachael

ASLI AND ALL THAT STUFF

2006-08-18T11:18:00.000+08:00

K, in a nutshell. We are now ready to start workshops for the training of the cast for ASLI!! It will be held at the KKBS building and is aimed to teach the simple aspects needed in theatre.

I wish that we could all start doing more " for" the arts as opposed to waiting to be in something, its such a bloody lot of work getting things done for a musical and we have absolutely NO guidelines at all. At times like this I wonder if its worth it. I hope it is. But starting from scratch, is a challenge.

I do hope all the cast can handle the workshops as i am aiming to make them tough but fun.

Rachael

"ASLI !!" loves Temburong!!

2006-08-01T15:53:00.000+08:00

I have still not fully gotten the hang of this blog friendster whatever its called thing. Technology is not my forte.

We are now getting to important bits in pre production and are pleased with the support we have received. Altho' there is still a lot of stuff to be done and currently there are only 3 of us working on the backstage preparation.

This means everything from getting sponsors, working on advertising, getting rehearsal venues, editing scripts, finalizing cast, planning dates, sitting drinking mugs of cold coffee and smoking whilst figuring out how best to do it.

See, its not like "glamorous" putting on a homegrown theatre show, I mean we don't have buckets of cash to play with for a start, plus, we are doing this to instigate something "new" for Brunei. Frankly, if we don't take a serious look at our "entertainment scene" then perhaps one day we won't have one.

We are a nation of supporters we need now to be supported too!

Brunei loves to criticize, its quite disheartening sometimes to see how adept we are at criticizing and belittling our own "artistes", we rip 'em apart verbally, bitch, insult, boo them off stage and then wonder why we don't seem to be making it internationally. Laziness is one reason lack of initiative is another we get complacent about things.

"ASLI!!" The musical is my contribution and from it we at BAKAT Arts hope to get a whole bunch of Bruneian talents together, we have managed to recruit some rather artistic wonders, some good singers, some intellectuals, all with a mind of their own and an interest to help create a couture culture.

Culture is to me a boring word. It needs to be revitalized, Culture needs updating in Brunei, ASLI!! is about remembering our identity, I have written it with a vision, I want it to be "Grease meets Phantom meets Alanis meets Project Pop meets Broadway meets Brunei"

We are raring to go, we have a good team, will fill y'all in as we go along. I want to go back to Temburong, it has the best wajid, very yummy. Also, the crab in Limbang is amazing! Maggie's Cafe by the river - really tasty and just a drive away. In the name of research I get to travel thru Borneo. Its fun. Its something that I have never done. Seriously tho, I have turned into a black peppered crab addict. Limbang is the place for a quick fix. Here in Brunei, too expensive and not available. And wajid is at the tamu in Temburong, the little old lady is there til 4pm. Buy loads!

I am totally waffling on about food.

K, enough said. I am hungry now.

From ASLI!!

Rachael

Update on ASLI!!

2006-07-16T15:47:00.000+08:00

Thought I would give a brief update on whats been happening behind the scenes.

To say "busy" is an understatement as Bakat have been up and down to temburong, Kuala Balai and even perused thru LImbang, all in the name of getting inspiration. We have also secured the support of relevant Ministries and now we are still in the process of finalizing drama workshop dates.

See, its not like putting on a concert or a roadshow, its a Theatrical production and we want it perfect. Not a slovenly put together production, or something that resembles a canto pop dialogue to music. We want it proper.

We are still sourcing for some cast members so, any willing " thespians" ..thats "thespians"... please do come forward. Pre production is still going on and we are all getting short tempered and bossy, especially Syl who gives me these awful things called " deadlines".

Anyways, we are doing our best, watch this space

Rachael

A Message from the Editor

2006-06-25T19:31:00.000+08:00

by Sylvianna

Hello dear visitors.

Thank you for taking the time to visit this website, which was beautifully created by Adi Rani ( Cheers, babe! :-) )

I've been asked by my colleagues if I've quit by day job...whether I've embarked upon the arts scene full time.

Bruneian arts scene is still at its "baby stage". It will be a struggle to earn a proper living if one is to fully devote his/her time with entertainment locally. I need my day job!

A dentist by day, and 1 of the 3 executive producers for Bakat Arts Production by night, I finally have the time to leave a blog here. It's great to be on leave during the hectic school holidays. It's such a wonderful change from my monotonous daily routine at the clinic to switch to entertainment mode.

I can't sing...can't act...can't dance...but I love listening to all sorts of music. I love watching actors become totally different characters under the right direction: A soft-spoken, shy person can become a loud, arrogant arse! A camp, sissy guy can become Awang Butch! A butch guy becomes the outrageous, over-the-top, camp sissy! A strong, insensitive, callous bitch reveals that she is a little girl at heart!

I love watching the variety of movements the body is capable of: from the hard thumping and bad ass attitude of hip-hop/street/nigga-wannabe style, to the soft styles of Malay traditional dance.

Singing! Acting! Dancing! A perfect combination that only a Musical Theatre Production can do justice.

I was excited when Rachael suddenly blurts out to me while I was chilling at her house, back in March this year that she wants to do "Asli!!" - The Musical. She wants me to help her bring it together. To make it happen. Why me you wonder?

I've only organized functions including a number of 'happening!' parties, but nothing like this before. It's a challenge but it's not impossible.

Joel with his marketing & management experiences completes the trio of Bakat Arts Production- An English woman with a Malay heart, a Chinese man with bad Malay accent & of course, yours truly, a Malay woman with a not-quite-Malay name & a proud chairperson of Dental terminology for MABBIM (Majlis Bahasa Brunei, Indonesia & Malaysia) :-P

Random Comments

2006-06-25T19:10:00.000+08:00

Adi Rani's comments:

"To work with Rachael again to me is an honour, we had a blast doing other projects in the past and I'm sure this one will be another amazing journey for me and for everyone who is involved. She's one very talented individual"

Diana Latip's comments:

"I started my career with Rachael over a decade ago, and to be doing another project with her now is like second nature. I look forward to this experience and I look forward to being part of a musical cast; as a solo artiste it will be a different discipline for me to part of an ensemble"

Jenny Malai Ali's comments:

"I believe that there is no shortage of raw talent in Brunei. The question is whether this talent can be translated into showmanship and stage presence"Jenny Malai Ali ,one of the judging panel

Da juice behind "Asli!!" auditions

2006-06-25T18:30:00.000+08:00

by Sylvianna

Yesterday, June 18th was the final open auditions for "Asli!!" - The Musical. We first started open auditions In Bandar on April 20th. It has been fun & exciting scouting for fresh faces. We've been surprised with quite a number of young and old talents in Brunei.

But not all that turned up had an ounce of talent in them (no offence, ah!) We do salute all those who tried heir best during the auditions. There were a number of potentially talented folks who tried out but didn't get a part. Spare us the slandering & bitching posted in Brudirect! Read on and I will tell you what really happened during the gruelling period of auditions.

AUDITIONS @ HARVEY'S MARKET, BSB.

I dunno why we agreed on starting at 9am when certain people (let's just call them R and W) are "Dracula" by nature i.e. not blood-sucking but stays up at night & lies dormant when the sun is out! So after the usual "breakfast pelacur" i.e. coffee & cigarettes, auditions began in about an hour or so later.

The 1st was a couple of talented dancers, who we discovered afterwards referred to our resident choreographer/judge as "D Wen!" Of course, being 'kiasu' (Inda mau mau/Don't want want) we also called ourselves "D Rach!","D Jen!","D Syl! and started blowing our won trumpets...listing our own accomplishments...name-dropping (seriously, if I had a cent every time I hear Shuhaimi Baba's name, I'd be 100 bucks richer!)

Anyway, they were good but pulled out during recalls due to school commitments.

Lemme think who else didn't get in...

Quite a number only sings karaoke. We didn't provide TV/VCD karaoke combo because we are auditioning for a Musical theatre production. Of course, many didn't know what they were auditioning for, let alone what Musicals are about. We wanted to hear their pitching since Musicals will not involve microphones. We told them to stand far from the judges, pretend we are deaf & to sing from the top of their lungs.

Some comprehended straight away, some needed to be reminded so many bloody times but sadly, some just don't get it. I think one guy had a naturally small mouth, eventho he could sing. So theatre was not his destiny.

We had a talented little girl who sang the likes of Celine & Whitney but had no clue about Britney, Christina or Pussycat dolls. Mummy was always by her side, guiding her on what to sing. Her rendition of Whitney's I wanna dance with somebody was 1 of our most memorable auditions. She followed Jenny's instructions to jog & dance towards the centre with arms up & all over d place! Classic!

We doubt she really wanted to be in our Musical. It seemed like she was just fulfilling dear Mummy's dreams.

Moving on...

Acting skills were tested by improvising either a commercial or a phone conversation, thanks to our handy block of wood. Jenny invented a nifty name for a deodorant, BOGO (as in Body Odour Go away...get it?) plus an anti-dandruff shampoo, DANDRO. Rachael came up with a not-so-nifty name for cat food, called.....wait for it.....THE CAT FOOD. Oh well...

The phone conversation involved a call from a quiz show saying "U've just won a thousand/a million dollars!" but then said they got your name wrong. So a mixed of emotions were involved: the nervous wait, the eagerness & excitement of winning, the sadness, anger & frustration of the mistake)

Some were very good, some were ok but quite a few were just bad. We had some jumping for joy, with some cussing going on (which none of us minded), and pretending to call friends (which we didn't expect). That was good. But some just didn't show any emotions whatsoever when told they've won a thousand dollars (hence we changed it to a million dollars). Argh!!!

We also had quite a handful of folks who speaks English very eloquently, but mind you, "Asli!!" is a bilingual story. Their grasp of their mother language (Syl to Rachael: Yohnya!) brings tears to our eyes! So, fingers crossed that we will see improvements in their Malay.

AUDITIONS @ KB

KB auditions started a bit late on that Sunday morning after a very late night. It was difficult trying to force myself to wake up after only 4 hours of sleep but somewhat more laborious trying to wake up another person who slept for; I reckoned an hour or so. Seriously, shouting like mad to a deaf person dead to the world, 1st thing in the morning was a bitch! The van trip felt like ages but we finally arrived at KB around ten-ish.

We used Joel's father's office downstairs. It was smaller than Harvey's audition area but bless the aircon so can't complain much.

The walkway just outside was a nice spot to set up the registration area i.e. a small tent & some chairs.

As we were setting up, Joel's father asked Rachael if we had a permit to set up the tent etc. This was a scary man. I didn't wanna get involved so I just made myself engrossed with the stereo-wires-thingamajig, avoiding eye contact, figuring a way to disappear unnoticed. But still giggling inside after hearing Rachael cringe, trying to answer him...Name-dropping a few VVIPs who know about our project but still failing to impress the man. He still insists on a permit. But this was on a non-working day. Finally Joel talked to the father. Don't ask me what & how since Chinese language is alien to me. He did manage to calm him down so auditions went on.

The Kristal DJs (Keejah, Dafy, Yanti & Anna) were around cos they were there handing out AVANZA stickers. Some stalker of a certain DJ registered for our audition but disappeared when his favourite DJ left. Weirdo!

3 of KB idols finalists auditioned. 1 of them made a judge weep after she belted out a Rossa song. The other 2 made us laugh with a rendition of 'Basikal Tua'. We did ask him which song in d whole wide world that he knows by heart and he said Basikal tua. He startled us by immediately singing but stopped halfway cos he forgot the words.Doh!

His friend did a hilarious version of the phone-in quiz call. After he was told he won a million bucks, he was ecstatic but he then peeped through the curtains. When asked what d f**k he did that for, he also didn't know?! Maybe he was checking that no one was outside to listen and find out that he won a million bucks.

When we auditioned an Iban boy, we asked him to sing any Iban song he knows. He started tapping his hips and sang "I...I ...I...I love you..." then Rachael stopped him saying she wanted to hear an Iban song. He said that it is an Iban song by the group, Acid Rain?! Funny choice of name for a group with a cheesy pop sound...

We saw another little girl who only sings Celine & Whitney songs. The typical songs from her parent's VCDs karaoke collections. Even when asked to sing Happy Birthday like a 5 year old, she sang it like a 40 year old!

I'm tired now. I'll write more about Tutong & Temburong next time...if I feel like it :-P

Interview with the Producer/Creator of ASLI

2006-06-25T18:18:00.000+08:00

Following the first auditions sessions held for "ASLI!!", we bring to you the inspiration and ideas of our Creator/Producer for "ASLI!!".

According to Rachael Malai Ali, her ideas of creating an ambitious venture for our homegrown Brunei Darussalam’s first musical Broadway, was initiated with her creation of BAKAT two years ago, which was then unfortunately changed to "P2F".

Instead, because of Rachael's undying passion for the love of the art and the belief in our local talents that has the potential to place Brunei Darussalam in the world map for performing arts talent, Rachael, has persistently come up with the idea of creating a theatre stage musical drama - Broadway style.

According to her, quoted "there is no such thing as a finished product when it comes to performing arts; and any serious artistes, whether singer, actor, musician or dancer etc., should continuously strive to perfect their skills." Unfortunately, there is no such platform available for our vast local talents; and therefore many artistes are left to struggle on their own. More intent with brief moments of glamour than in developing themselves to reach an international level.

It is only through continuous effort and discipline, that performers will ever stand a chance of being recognized internationally.

With "ASLI!!" the team aims to bring about the potential talent from Brunei and literally drill them in all aspects of performance art. It is hoped that with proper training, and a thorough and rigorous, rehearsal schedule that, come December it will be difficult to differentiate the "ASLI!!" stars and cast from any other international performers. "Such is the task ahead, but honestly speaking it is very plausible." Especially given that, the cast have all one thing in common - the desire to be recognized as a promising artiste.

According to Rachael's past experiences with her past creation of BAKAT or rather P2F, she has come to realize that the potential of our local homegrown talents has the ability to develop further afield to greater heights for stardom. Quote and unquote - "It all depends really on where your focus lies, and what you are hoping to achieve, which will in the end turn you into a "one hit wonder" or an artiste who continues to shine and to contribute to Brunei's artistic aspirations!" "Fame has its price!" But in the case of the P2F, many of our passionate Brunei talents were left to their own devices.

Therefore with "ASLI!!" we intend to bring out the shine of our performers and let them have a feel of the real world experience of the performance arts industry.

"There is a lot of hidden potential of our people here in Brunei!" says Rachael. "It is up to us to develop that potential into something to be proud of!"

Rachael Malai Ali is no stranger to the performing arts world. With her vast experiences and achievements under her belt, such as one of the co-founders of "Instant Cafe Theatre" - Kuala Lumpur as well as working with great names like Jit Murad, Shuhaimi Baba (the director of Pontianak, Selubong, Mimpi Moon and Lagu Ku, Layar Lara, Ringgit Kashurga), Ramli Sarip, Eman Manan, Ogy Ahmad Daud, Fauziah Nawi, Adflin Shauki, and her performance as the "Kathy" in the Malaysian drama Permatang Budi and her local contribution to the musical industry, Rachael has come this far not just to sit and watch our talents here in Brunei Darussalam go to waste, but to prove a point that we have just as much ability as anybody else; and all we need to do now is to get into action and start creating, with the view to establishing a proper workable arts culture in the country.

With "ASLI!!" such an ambitious goal will give us the opportunity and the platform for Brunei as a nation to make it happen.

Brunei Yakin!!

Drafted By:

Joel

Final Asli Auditions

2006-06-14T11:32:00.000+08:00

(Courtesy of Ranoadidas.com)

More auditions in BSB: Due to more enquiries , the Production team will be holding two more auditions at Harvey's Market, No 2, Spg 524, Jln Pasir Berakas, Kg Lambak Kiri on Wednesday 14th and Thursday 15th June from 7pm til 10pm.

Final Auditions in Temburong : Sunday 18th June from 2pm until 5pm at the Temburong Tourist Information centre at Pekan Bangar. Ethnic cultural troupes are also being sourced as ASLI!! Producers are intending to incorporate Ethnic sounds in with modern orchestration.

Those wishing to audition are reminded to bring along their biodata and a 4R Photograph. You can visit http://aslithemusical.blogspot.com/ for more details.

Final auditions for Asli to be held in Temburong

2006-05-31T09:48:00.000+08:00

By Kartika Rahman (Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin)

"Asli! The Musical" continues its quest to find hidden talents through auditions, which were recently conducted at the IDY Cafeteria and Pool in Pekan Tutong.

The management offered the popular venue for the sessions to support local arts.

The Bakat Arts Productions team spent a whole afternoon auditioning potential cast members, including singers, dancers and actors.

"We had different kinds of people auditioningIt was nice to see so many Bruneians interested and we had an enjoyable time, plus we may have found some promising talents who will be called for a second audition," stated one of the producers.

The Asli group will be heading to Temburong some time next month for more auditions.

This will be the final destination for audition sessions, but it is an important one, as the musical is mostly based on a family from Temburong.

The producers of Asli still need dancers and singers for its main chorus.

Those aged between 15 and 55 are very much encouraged to audition.

"So far we are doing very well, and it is going to be an exciting journey, as we put together Brunei's first Broadway-style musical," commented the creator, Rachael Malai Ali.

"It will be challenging - that's for sure, but judging from the support and encouragement we have been getting, it will be worth it."

Bakat Arts Productions will also hold performing arts workshops, which would cover acting, improvisation, voice, singing, dance, movement, body language, comedy, drama, poetry, presentation, confidence, self-esteem and speech.

The workshops are suitable for anyone interested in performing arts and especially those interested in gaining self-confidence and positive thinking.

Taught by a qualified British instructor who can speak both Malay and English, the workshop will be conducted in small groups.

Those interested may contact Bakat Arts Productions at 2391668 or 8606659, or by emailing bakatarts@yahoo.com.

For updates on Asli, visit www.friendster.com/profiles/bakatarts or www.aslithemusical.blogspot.com.

More About "ASLI - The Musical"

2006-05-29T10:10:00.000+08:00

BakatArts Family

BakatArts is currently planning to produce Brunei's first Homegrown Original Broadway style Musical Production- " ASLI!!"

ASLI tells the story of Helang, a young man of Lun Bawang descent who leaves his home in Temburong to make it big as an artiste in the big city of Bandar Seri Begawan. Helangs Father is not supportive of him leaving the village as he wants his son to continue to uphold the traditions and values so important to the Ethnic Malay people of Brunei, Helang however is determined to try his luck and, with his Mothers support he leaves.

Once in Bandar he manages to find a job and makes friends and enemies with a variety of interesting people.

ASLI is a musical, told in both English and Malay, which intends to bring to life the beautiful traditions of Brunei Culture, whilst embracing the modern cosmopolitan ideas of the country.... i.e. : trendy, zany and fun

Combining the ethnic sounds of gongs, flutes, gamelan, zapin and hadrah with the modern day lead guitars, drums and keyboards, ASLI aims to bring to life an exciting Musical of song, dance and theatre.A simple story line with an exciting cast not forgetting a happy ending is ultimately what ASLI is all about, a dash of Bruneian humor and a lot of Bruneian color should all create a performance whose very heart is ASLI!

ASLI auditions coming to Tutong

2006-05-24T12:00:00.000+08:00

by Kartika Rahman (Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin)

The ASLI team will be coming to Tutong this Friday to hold auditions from 3pm until 7pm at IDY CAFETERIA & POOL, No 3 & 4, 1st Floor, Bangunan Irama Aman 1, Jalan Petani, Pekan Tutong.

In conjunction with the auditions, IDY CAFETERIA & POOL will be giving a promotion this Friday. Pool enthusiasts can enjoy the game at a flat rate of $4 per hour from 10am until midnight.

The ASLI team is looking for actors, singers, dancers and musicians from the age of 18 to 55 for Brunei's first homegrown Broadway style musical production.

Candidates are advised to prepare a song or dance, a brief bio data as well as a 4R color photo.

Those wishing to attend the audition are advised to wear comfortable clothing and minimal make-up for females.

Written and composed by Rachael Malai Ali, ASLI tells the story of Helang, a young man of Lun Bawang descent who leaves his home in Temburong to make it big as an artiste in the big city of Bandar Seri Begawan.

Helang's father is not supportive of him leaving the village as he wants his son to continue to uphold the traditions and values so important to the ethnic Malays of Brunei.

Helang, however, is determined to try his luck and, with his mother's support he leaves. Once in Bandar he manages to find a job and makes friends and enemies with a variety of interesting people.

ASLI is a musical, told in both English and Malay, which intends to bring to life the beautiful traditions of Brunei culture, while embracing the modern cosmopolitan ideas of the country.

Combining modern and traditional musical instruments, ASLI aims to bring to life an exciting musical of song, dance and theatre, with a dash of Bruneian humour and lots of Bruneian colours.

ASLI!! The Musical is being produced by BAKAT ARTS Production, a team of performing arts enthusiasts whose objective is to play a role in commercialising Brunei's arts scene.

It is hoped that ASLI will be a step in the right direction as this first local musical is utilising the inherent talent that Bruneians possess.

"It's a team effort and this effort is well worth it as so far we are meeting a wide variety of talented people, not only singers but dancers, musicians, actors, designers It seems that the sky really is the limit for Brunei's artistes," commented the producers at BAKAT.

As far as possible the ASLI production team is keen to source for new faces, especially for the hero and heroine, the producers are also inviting Brunei's 'veteran talent' to come forward, as there are key characters needed in the 40 to 55 age group.

ASLI is ultimately looking for inherent talent, enthusiastic team players and performers who can speak English and Malay.

Knowledge of our local culture is an added advantage plus an understanding of theatre and music.

The ASLI team extends its warmest appreciation to Idinin Hj Mahmood, owner of IDY Cafeteria & Pool, as well as IDY's cafe at Kg Sengkarai for his support.

With auditions previously held in Bandar, Kuala Belait, and soon Tutong on Friday, the final destination will be in Temburong.

For further enquiries, call 2391668/8606659/8669692 or email bakatarts@yahoo.com. Check out Friendster profile at www.friendster.com/profiles/bakatarts for further updates.

Asli - The Musical Holds Fifth Audition

2006-05-17T16:13:00.000+08:00

By Kartika Rahman (17th May 2006)

Bandar Seri Begawan - Asli - The Musical held its fifth audition at Harvey's Market in Jalan Pasir Berakas over the weekend.

According to Rachael Malai Ali, "So far the auditions are getting more interesting. We're having more of a selection of people coming forward.

"I think initially the problem might have been that a lot of people didn't understand what a musical was.

"Now they understand that it is a Broadway thing... a story filled with singing, acting and dancing.”We are now focusing on Temburong because Asli begins in Temburong," she added.

Working hard to commercialise local artists, Rachael's team will continue to plough through possibly a further three weeks of auditions - one in Temburong, possibly one in Tutong, and the last will be call-backs from earlier auditions.

In terms of locating the right lead characters, Rachael stated: I may be compelled to use some of the local established musicians, singers, dancers we have now.

"But I'm keener to have a mixture of veteran actors, up-and-coming stars and new faces because I think it will make it much more interesting."

The announcement on who will take the lead role will be made soon. The team has set its buck on the lead role for Helang, and most possibly the lead role for Jamaliah Bunga Melor.

To date, Asli is still scouting for additional characters and musicians. With regard to the response so far, Rachael said: We have had a lot of people who have come forward to do backstage work, which is very encouraging. After our final month of casting, we will go through script opening (i.e. start opening ASLI and making it come together).

Asli does not intend to hold further auditions immediately after the Temburong and Tutong auditions. This is because the main cast would have to be assembled as soon as possible.

Rachael is hoping to invest most of her concentration on the script opening, which is the part that will consume the most amount of time. Keeping to a tight schedule, Asli aims to head to the stage by December.

"The other thing we are working on is the Asli slogan. The concept is Asli, which has two meanings: Asli being 'Orang Asli' - the original people f Brunei and the fact that we want people to remember their roots, specifically our own Brunei Malay roots.

"If you look at it, it is very diverse. So we are looking for the slogan and then hopefully we will do more active promotions.

Rachael has handpicked Adi Rani to play Gong, the hero's best friend and sidekick.

She explained: I've chosen Adi Rani because he is a versatile artist. He is multi-talented. He has got the right approach to his work. For me he is very vibrant.

"I like his style of singing. I like the songs he's written. I've worked with him in the past. He has good comic timing.

"The part of Gong is quite a challenging role and I think Adi Rani will carry it off perfectly."

To date, Adi Rani - a singer/songwriter/producer from Tutong - has released 'Kau Di Sisi' (2004), 'Pujaanku' (2004), and 'Ratuku' (2005).

"I'd love to explore my versatility in acting as Rachael has put her absolute trust in me... and since she thinks I can act, maybe there's a slight chance that I can," said Adi.

For further information on Adi Rani or to hear his songs visit www.purevolume.com/adirani

Meanwhile, for updates regarding audition dates and venue in Temburong and Tutong, visit www.friendster.com/profiles/bakatarts

For enquiries, email bakatarts@yahoo.com or contact 2391668, 8606659 or 8669692.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

ASLI - Previous Borneo Bulletin Entries

2006-04-01T13:45:00.000+08:00

Exciting 'Asli' musical to hold open auditions By Aiden Adams (1st April 2006)

Jenny (L) and Rachel Malai Ali.

If all goes well, "Asli The Musical" will be the first-ever Broadway-style production in Brunei Darussalam.

Written and composed by Rachel Malai Ali (a drama school graduate, as well as the creator of Bakat and founder of Instant Café Theatre in KL), "Asli" tells the story of Helang, a young man of Lun Bawang descent who leaves his home in Temburong to make it big as an artiste in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Helang's father is against the idea, as he wants his son to continue upholding the customs and values so important to the locals.

However, Helang is determined to try his luck, and against his father's wishes but with the support of his mother, he leaves for the capital city.

Once there, he manages to get a job, making friends (as well as enemies) with an interesting variety of people.

"Asli" will be a musical told in both English and Malay, which would bring to life the beautiful traditions of Bruneian culture, while at the same time embracing the Sultanate's cosmopolitan ideas, as well as exploring its fun, trendy and zany sides.

Combining the ethnic sounds of gongs, flutes, gamelan, zapin and hadrah with the modern-day lead guitars, drums and keyboards, "Asli" promises to offer an exciting combination of song, dance and theatre.

A simple storyline, with a formerly undiscovered cast and not forgetting a happy ending, is ultimately what "Asli" will be all about.

"Asli" is actually a Malay word that means "original" or "inborn" in English.

A dash of local humour combined with an integration of Bruneian colours should create a wonderful performance, the very heart of which itself is "Asli".

Jenny Malai Ali is also part of the project's advisory panel, while sister Rachel hopes to find local directors as well as a talented group and crew, for both the stage and behind the scenes.

The musical is tentatively set for a period between the end of August and September, although this has not yet been confirmed.

The producers would like to invite potential actors, singers, dancers and musicians to audition anytime between 9am and 11pm from Friday April 21 to Sunday April 23, at Harvey's Market, No. 2, Spg 524, Jalan Pasir Berakas.

Candidates are advised to arrive 15 minutes prior to their turns and registration numbers will be given.

They should bring with them a brief bio-data on only a piece of A4-sized paper and one full-length 4R-sized colour photo, while dressed in comfortable yet practical clothing and preferably in natural make-up.

The open audition will only be open to locals and permanent residents between the ages of 18 to 55, who are also ideally confident, hardworking, bright and enthusiastic with some relevant knowledge or background.

New faces are also welcomed.

Only short-listed candidates would be called for a second audition and the director's decision will be final.

For further enquiries, call 8606659 or 8669692.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

'Asli!' Auditions To Start Tomorrow By Aiden Adams (19th April 2006)

Bandar Seri Begawan - Preparations are currently being made for "Asli! The Musical", which is actually going to be different from a "Taridra", and there have been many enquiries pertaining to its auditions.

The producers would like to make it clear that they are looking for both new and experienced talents, as long as the performers are be able to learn quickly and take constructive criticisms.

Audition pieces can be in the form of a song, dance or an acting piece, which must be' rehearsed beforehand and not last longer than three minutes, while the judges may ask the performers to improvise. There are more than 10 major parts between the ages of 18 and 55 to be filled, including "Helang" the hero and "Jamaliah Bunga Melor" the heroine.

In addition, the part of conniving and villainous "Voila Designa", which is a more challenging and demanding role, has already been given to Diana Latip, one of the country's strongest vocal performers.

The producers think that it may be good to have a few artistes involved, as it would make the other cast members more confident, and also give the established local talents a chance to prove their capabilities.

The musical's writer and composer, Rachel Malai Ali, has decided to embark on this project after finishing her book with Penguin's Oneworld publications in London. "If all goes well, I hope to take the entire production to Kuala Lumpur next year. The sky is the limit!," she said.

Radio and TV personality Jenny Malai Ali, who will also be on the judging panel, said, "I believe that there is no shortage of raw talents in Brunei. The question is whether they can be translated into showmanship and stage presence."

The bilingual "Asli!" will be first and foremost a story about the Sultanate's culture and traditions, but also full of modern, colourful songs and dances. A passionate crew is also being sourced, including the stage manager, props master, as well as set and costume designers.

The tentative dates for its performances are now in December, and there is an option of two venues. Auditions will start from tomorrow until Sunday, April 23 at Harvey's Market, Spg 524, in Jalan Pasir Berakas. The,i allocated times are between 9am and 12noon, 2 and 5pm, or 8 and 11pm. Those interested in auditioning are reminded to bring a 4R-sized photo and a short bio data listing their previous experiences as well as personal interests.

Musicians are asked to being a demo CD and the auditions are only open to local or permanent residents. For more information, call 8606659 or 8669692, or email bakatarts@yahoo.com, or visit the Friendster profile under "BakatArts" at www.friendster.com.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

'Asli!' auditions heading for KB By Aiden Adams (30th April 2006)

"Asli!" team comprising writer and composer Rachael Malai Ali (C),
guest judge and Kristal FM DJ Jenny Malai Ali (L), professional dance
choreographer Wen D (R) and other team members.
Photos Courtesy Bakatarts.

Judging panel seen on day two of auditions

Registration for auditions
Photos Courtesy Bakatarts

The door is still wide open for aspiring artistes in the country as the nationwide auditioning process is still up and running for "Asli!", a cultural show set to be Brunei's first ever Broadway-style musical.

The Asli team will this time be coming down to No. 17, Jalan Pretty, Kuala Belait from 10am to 8pm on Sunday 7th May for more auditions, while one final session is scheduled for the following Sunday 14th May between 9am until 11pm at Harvey's Market at No. 2, Simpang 524, Jalan Pasir, Berakas.

Auditions for "Asli!" were successfully held last weekend at Harvey's Market.

Aspiring actors, dancers, singers and musicians from all over the country came to try their luck. They were each given a 10-minute time frame for an audition and interview as well as sight-reading a part of the 'Asli' script.

The casting directors said it was very interesting to see a wide variety of skills and talents on show, including one young musician who could play traditional instruments, some multi-talented performers and many enthusiastic singers.

As much as possible, the Asli producers are keen to source for new faces, especially for the lead actors. They are ultimately looking for great potentials, enthusiastic team players as well as those who can speak both Malay and English fluently.

Some knowledge of the Sultanate's culture would also be an added advantage, along with an inherent understanding of theatre and music. So far, some promising talents have already been found, according to the producers. The successful preliminary candidates will be called for a second audition.

For the upcoming auditions and as in the past, candidates are advised to wear comfortable clothing and minimal make-up. They are also expected to prepare a song or dance routine, and to provide a brief biodata and a 4R-sized colour photo.

For further enquiries, call 8606659 or 8669692, or e-mail bakatarts@yahoo.com. Visit www.friendster.com/profiles/bakatarts and www.ranoadidas.com for all the latest updates and developments.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

'Asli!' Audition In Bandar This Sunday By Kartika Rahman (10th May2006)

Bandar Seri Begawan - Aspiring singers, dancers, and actors still stand a chance to be cast in Brunei's first ever culture-inspired, Broadway style musical, 'Asti!', as an audition will be held in Bandar on Sunday (May 14) between loam and 10pm at Harvey's Market at No. 2, Simpang 524, Jalan Pasir, Berakas.

‘Asli!' is a musical which is aimed at bringing to life an exciting musical of song, dance and theatre through combining the ethnic sounds of gongs, flutes, gamelan, zapin and hadrah with the modern-day electric guitars, drums and keyboards.

The judges said that there is still a shortage of both male and female veteran performers and they are avidly searching for cast members to play the main roles. They encourage Bruneian citizens or permanent residents from all races to try out for the cast.

They are also looking for backstage crew, such as set designer, costume designer, lighting designer, musical director, property master and the like.

Rachael Malai Ali, a writer and composer, said: "A musical production is not merely singing but a combination of singing, acting and dancing. So we are targeting people who are able to perform all three."

She quoted some of the Broadway musicals such as Cats, Phantm of the Opera, Grease, Oliver and Annie.

Last Sunday, `Asli!' had its fourth audition in Kuala Belait, with finalists from KB idol turning up and entertaining the judges.

The crew expressed their utmost appreciation to D' Swan studio in Kuala Belait for its support. Plans are on the way for final audition to be held in Temburong and Tutong before the end of the month.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin