8 Days

Catriona Richards

Great Ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday.

‘Buka Puasa//Buka Mulut: Poetry Open Mic’

Unleash your
inner beat poet at this out-of-the-box open mic event at the Reading
Room. Guests are invited to break the fast and open their mouths to let
loose some verbal acrobatics. The only instructions: “bring your own
verse + spit.”

Monday, from 6 p.m.
The Reading Room
Jl. Kemang Timur No. 57 A-B, South Jakarta
Twitter: @ReadingRoomJkt

The Cardigans

Skipping Singapore altogether, Swedish
pop-rockers the Cardigans are coming straight to Jakarta as the only
Southeast Asian stop on their world tour. The band is excited to visit
Indonesia for the first time, saying on its website, “It will be very
warm we think but most of all, freaking amazing!” You’d be a “Lovefool”
to miss it.

Tuesday
Tennis Indoor Stadium Senayan
Jl. Pintu Satu SenayanSouth Jakarta
www.rajakarcis.com

‘Comiconnexions’

If you’re a comics-lover eager to learn from a master, you’d better get that pencil scribbling to apply for the “Comiconnexions” workshop this September in Yogyakarta. Applications close soon for the training sessions hosted by German cartoonist Sascha Hommer. See the Goethe Institut website for details.

Applications close Aug. 25
comicworkshop2012@gmail.com
www.goethe.de

‘Andra Matin: Sebuah Sekuel’

Leading contemporary architect Andra Matin presents a cinematic take on constructed spaces and the emotions we attach to them in this innovative exhibition, “Andra Matin: A Sequel.”

Until Aug. 27
Dia.Lo.Gue. Artspace
Jl. Kemang Selatan No. 99A
South Jakarta
Tel. 021 719 9670

‘The Royal Tambayongs’

Pixel artist Andhika Muksin has returned to the walls of Tree House, this time bringing some of his “family members” into the mix. Street artist Wormo and digital creator Ludmila Gaffar help bring a host of weird and wonderful characters to life on canvas.

Until September
Tree House Kemang
Jl. Kemang I No. 72
Tel. 021 7179 1867

8 Days

Catriona Richards

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday.

‘Ngabuburit Yuuk’

Let those last few hours before the end of the
fast drift away at the Japan Foundation, with free movie screenings
this week from Monday through Thursday. Catch “Asahiyama Doobutsuen”
(“Sky Penguin”), “Kozo Monogatari” (“Little Elephant”) and more before
breaking the fast at sundown with friends old and new.

Monday to Thursday, from 2 p.m.
Japan Foundation Summitmas I,
Jl. Jend. Sudirman, South Jakarta
Tel. 021 5201266

Arthouse Cinema

Film buffs can catch the best in world cinema
culture at this regular event hosted by German cultural center Goethe
Haus. This week, Thomas Riedelsheimer’s documentary “Touch the Sound”
will play on Tuesday, followed by a selection of Indonesian films,
including Chairun Nissa’s acclaimed short film “Payung Hitam” (“Black
Umbrella”) on Friday.

Tuesday and Friday, from 7 p.m.
Goethe Haus, Jl. Sam Ratulangi No. 9-15, Menteng, Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 23550208

Islamic Expression: Commercialization and Pop Culture

Music,
fashion and lifestyles influenced by Islamic values have long been part
of Indonesia’s popular culture. But are these Islamic references just
symbols, or something more? Join journalist Asrori S. Karni and cultural
studies lecturer Yasraf Amir Piliang for a discussion on pop culture
and Islamic understanding in Indonesia.

Wednesday, from 4 p.m.
Salihara
Jl. Salihara No. 16, Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta
Tel. 021 7891202
www.salihara.org

Gym Class Heroes

So the story goes, the members of this rap rock
band actually met in gym class in Geneva, New York. And to their fans,
they are the heroes of the genre, bringing together a steady mix of
hip-hop, funk and reggae since 1997. Catch the high school buddies in
action in Jakarta this weekend.

Saturday, from 8 p.m.
Kartika Expo, Balai Kartini
Jl. Gatot Subroto, South Jakarta
www.rajakarcis.com

‘Lihat Disana’

Look to the past, present and future through the eyes of artists Aris Prabawa and Budi Santoso in this exhibition supported by the Jakarta Arts Council. “Lihat Disana,” or “Look There,” encourages viewers to critically re-examine the political, religious, social and economic issues encountered in our everyday lives.

Ends Saturday
Galeri Cipta III, Taman Ismail Marzuki
Jl. Cikini Raya, Central Jakarta
www.tamanismailmarzuki.com

‘Andra Matin: Sebuah Sekuel’

Known for his “cinematic” style of architecture, Andra Matin is a respected name in the business in Indonesia and abroad. In this exhibit, “Andra Matin: A Sequel,” Andra presents work past and present to spark discussion on the art of architecture. Contact the gallery for discussion and film screening times.

Until August 27
Dia.lo.gue. Artspace
Jl. Kemang Selatan No. 99A, South Jakarta
Tel. 021 7199670

8 Days

Catriona Richards

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday

‘Totally Brass’ 

There’s nothing like the honking, hooting harmonies of a big brass band. Experience the acoustic sensation at this performance by Jakarta’s Amadeus Brass Ensemble, a group nurtured by a succession of German horn teachers.  

Monday
From 7:30 p.m.
Goethe Haus
Jl. Sam Ratulangi No. 9-15 Menteng, Central Jakarta
www.goethe.de

Yorkshire Film Night

Free-flow popcorn is on the house for this free screening of films from Northern England. But don’t expect a tour of the English countryside — the pickings here promise to be full of grit and humor. 

Wednesday
From 7:30 p.m.
Bee Hive Cafe
Jl. Fatmawati No. 39, South Jakarta
www.beehivecafe.com

Cultural Week: Papua’s Orang Kamoro 

How much do you know about Papua? This week, art center Bentara Budaya will be introducing one of Papua’s 225 tribes, the Kamoro people from the province’s southern coast. Activities will include film screenings, dance performances and dialogue sessions with Kamoro tribespeople. 

Wednesday to Sunday
Bentara Budaya
Jl. Palmerah Selatan No. 17, Central Jakarta
www.bentarabudaya.com

‘Menjemput Impian’

These days, ethnic Chinese are as much a part of Indonesian society as the hundreds of other ethnic groups found across the archipelago. The musical drama “Menjemput Impian,” or “Picking Up Dreams,” tells the story of Chinese migration, as workers traveled to Indonesia in search of a better life. 

Friday and Sunday
Graha Bukti Budaya, Taman Ismail Marzuki
Jl. Cikini Raya, Central Jakarta,
www.tamanismailmarzuki.com

New Sculpture Art Exhibition 

In today’s contemporary art world, sculpture can include anything from installations to found objects, abstract forms and new media. See what 14 of Indonesia’s best sculpture artists have been experimenting with this year at this newly opened exhibition. 

Until Saturday
Salihara
Jl. Salihara No. 16 Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta
www.salihara.org

Indonesia Furniture Show 2012 

Find fresh inspiration to furnish your home at the 16th edition of this annual furniture show. All tastes are catered for, from classic to contemporary, in a range of materials and styles that are sure to impress. 

Until Aug. 5
Balai Sidang Jakarta
Jakarta Convention Center
Jl. Gatot Subroto, South Jakarta
www.indonesiafurnitureshow.com

8 Days

Catriona Richards

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday

‘Rhythm of Art’

“Rhythm is omnipotent in our life,” says curator Tommy Awuy. “It is inherent in sound, movement, lines and colors. It is rhythm that gives meaning to life.”
See what rhythm looks like in full color in this exhibition of paintings by Yogyakarta-based artist Erizal A.S.

Closes Tuesday
Philo Artspace
Jl. Kemang Timur No. 90C
Kemang, South Jakarta
Tel. 021 7198448

‘Haunters’

Cho-in finds he can control other people’s minds just by looking at them. But one day, he meets a man whose mind cannot be read. Find out what happens in this psychological thriller from South Korea at a free screening this week.

Wednesday, 5:30 p.m.
Korean Cultural Center
Equity Tower, SCBD
Jl. Jend. Sudirman kav. 52-53, South Jakarta
Tel. 021 29035650

‘The Journey Before Bedtime’

The tales of childhood never truly leave us. Expect to reconnect with human and animal friends of old as Solo-born artist Tri Wahyudi relives the heroic, inspiring and humorous legends of his youth in this painting exhibit.

Closes Friday
Bentara Budaya
Jl. Palmerah Selatan No. 17, Central Jakarta,
Tel. 021 5483008

‘Kauwboy’

Just last month, this heartwarming tale bagged the European Film Academy Young Audience Award. Follow the adventures of 10-year-old Jojo as he adopts a pet jackdaw and bonds with his father as a result. Catch the movie as it’s meant to be seen at Dutch cultural center Erasmus Huis this week.

Saturday, 1:30 p.m.
Erasmus Huis, Jl. Rasuna Said
Kuningan, South Jakarta
www. erasmushuis.nlmission.org

‘Stories of 1001 Nights’

In the lead-up to National Children’s Day on Monday, cultural center Taman Ismail Marzuki is hosting a weekend of fun-filled shows for kids. Directed by Anton Suhartono, the shows bring to life the characters of the legendary “Dongeng 1001 Malam” (“Stories of 1001 Nights”) in song and dance on stage.

Friday to Sunday, 4 p.m.
Taman Ismail Marzuki
Jl. Cikini Raya No. 73, Cikini, Central Jakarta
www.tamanismailmarzuki.com

8 Days

Catriona Richards

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday.

David Cook

Proving that he has more to offer than the usual television talent show winners, 2008 “American Idol” victor David Cook has a rock-solid voice and the songwriting skills to match. The Houston-born singer even has musicianship to boot: He can rock out on guitar, bass, piano and drums. Catch the multi-talented performer on his “This Loud Tour” circuit.
 
Tuesday, from 9 p.m.
Tennis Indoor Senayan
Gelora Bung Karno, South Jakarta
www. trilogylive.com

ICRA 2012

Get your Lebaran shopping done early this year at the 12th annual Interior & Craft exhibition at the Jakarta Convention Center. Here you can find fine examples of Indonesian craftsmanship, from batik to jewelry, homewares and gifts, in styles that hail from across the archipelago.
 
Wednesday to Sunday
Jakarta Convention Center (Halls A and B)
Jl. Jend. Gatot Subroto, South Jakarta, 
Tel. 08159929416
www.jcc.co.id

‘Pina’ in 3D

This dance spectacular is as close as you can get to a live performance at the movies. Filmed in 3-D, this film directed by Wim Wenders and performed by the Tanztheater Wuppertal Pina Bausch is dedicated to the late German choreographer after whom the troupe is named. See Bausch’s work as it’s meant to be seen at this special screening hosted by the Goethe Institut.
 
Thursday, showing at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Blitzmegaplex, Grand Indonesia
Jl. M.H. Thamrin No. 1, Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 23550208

‘Tak Kenal Maka Tak Sayang’

For many artists, it is the urge to communicate without language that compels them to take up a visual form of self-expression. The Jakarta printmaking collective Refreshink has found a way to get its message across without words in the exhibition “Tak Kenal Maka Tak Sayang” (“Don’t Know, Don’t Care”), now showing at the Japan Foundation in South Jakarta.
 
Ends Friday
Japan Foundation
Gedung Summitmas, 
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 61-62, South Jakarta, 
Tel. 021 5201266

8 Days

Catriona Richards

Interlink Printmaking

Korean culture isn’t just about K-Pop, you know. For those wanting to get to know South Korean culture beyond the sugary hits of Super Junior, the Korean Cultural Center in South Jakarta is now hosting an exhibition of printed works by 17 Korean artists. The works explore modern perspectives on South Korea’s diverse cultures through a range of media. Take a look before it ends this week.

Ends Tuesday
Korean Cultural Center
Equity Tower, SCBD
Jl. Jend. Sudirman, Kav. 52-53
South Jakarta
Tel. 021 2903 5650

Magnum Filter Urban Jazz Crossover 2012

Jazz is all about pushing boundaries, and that’s exactly what local musicians aim to do at the annual Urban Jazz Crossover event. Now in its fourth year, the concert will feature popular artists like Tompi, Indra Lesmana and Barry Likumahuwa stepping into a brave new realm of jazz fusion and urban world.

Friday
Fairgrounds, Lot 14 SCBD
Jl. Jend. Sudirman Kav. 52-53, South Jakarta
Tel. 021 720 8022
www.djisamsoe.com

Aloha Indonesia!
From one tropical paradise to another, Hawaiian hula dancing has taken hold in Jakarta. Instructor Ishan Odelia shares the origins and different styles of the dance in a discussion next weekend.

Saturday, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
@america, Pacific Place, level 3
www.atamerica.or.id

Pies in the Face! Let’s Raise Money for the Children

Invite your friends, family and close enemies to toss whipped-cream pies in the guys behind Drive Books, Not Cars to raise money for underprivileged children. And you can donate your used English language novels and Indonesian children’s books here. Every rupiah goes to help foster children’s education programs in Jakarta and eastern Indonesia.

Saturday, 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Pizza e Birra, Plaza Indonesia
www.facebook.com/DriveBooksNotCars
Twitter: @drivebooksjkt

TV Rock

Shine your dancing shoes for next weekend — Australian electro duo TV Rock is back with some tracks to get you shuffling on the dance floor. The pair made a name for themselves back in 2006 when their debut hit, “Flaunt It,” rode the Top 40 charts for more than 30 weeks Down Under. These days they can still be found partying on the international club circuit. Get in quick for a world-class night of boogying.

Saturday
Dragonfly, Graha BIP
Jl. Gatot Subroto No. 23
South Jakarta
Tel. 0857 1080 0003

Jakarta Fair 2012

The musical madness continues this week as more big-name bands take to the stage to celebrate Jakarta’s anniversary. Fans can catch pop-rock band Nidji today, pop diva Agnes Monica tomorrow, and crooner Once on Tuesday and dangdut superstar Ayu Ting Ting on Wednesday — all before the weekend gets into full swing. Check the schedule on the website for details.

All week
Jakarta International Expo
Pusat Niaga Building
Arena PRJ Kemayoran, North Jakarta,
Tel. 021 2664 5000
www.jakartafair.biz

8 Days

Christi Hang & Abdul Qowi Bastian

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday.

Abaji 

Lebanon-born and French-reared musician Abaji will bring his exotic sounds to Salihara cultural center on Tuesday for a concert that crosses a number of styles and genres. Well-versed in Armenian, Turkish, Syriac and Greek musical traditions, Abaji has earned the nickname “Bedouin Troubadour.” 

Tuesday, 8 p.m.
Salihara
Jl. Salihara No. 16 Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta
www.salihara.org

Grand Final Abang None DKI Jakarta 2012

36 finalists of Abang and None DKI Jakarta 2012 (Mr. and Ms Jakarta), representing five municipalities and one administrative regency of the province, will compete on grand final to show their talents and intellectuality. The winners of the competition will be crowned as Jakarta’s cultural and tourism ambassadors.

Tuesday 8.30 p.m.
Teater Besar, Taman Ismail Marzuki
Jl. Cikini Raya No. 73, Central Jakarta
Live on ANTV

4th of July Cooking Demonstration 

Enjoy a delicious American history lesson at @America on Wednesday. July 4 marks independence day in the United States and to celebrate, the cultural center will have a cooking demonstration of two great American barbecue dishes: Arkansas barbecued glazed beef skewers and grilled cajun chicken breast fajitas with avocado salsa. 

Wednesday, 2 p.m.
@America Pacific Place
Jl. Jend. Sudirman, South Jakarta
www.atamerica.or.id

Jak Cloth 2012 

Tired of shopping at the same chain stores in the same boring malls? Jak Cloth 2012 will feature goods from more than 300 of the best Indonesian brands, but that’s not all. The event also has six music stages, skate and BMX mini ramps and a longboard slalom competition.  

From Thursday to Sunday
Parkir Timur Senayan, South Jakarta
Tel. 021 735 1806

Mixed Martial Arts Fighting Championship

Indonesia is well represented in the sport of mixed martial arts and many of the country’s top fighters will go head-to-head with international opponents in a brutal free-for-all this Friday. 

Friday, 6 p.m.
Plenary Hall, Jakarta Convention Center
http://bigdaddy.co.id/lfc8/

Indonesian Youth Conference

The Indonesian Youth Conference (IYC) is a forum for young Indonesians to exchange knowledge and ideas, discuss current issues, and create solutions to address the nation’s problems. The conference is held annually and this year marks their third year running. This year’s tagline is “We Decide.”

Saturday, 9 a.m to 9 p.m.
Thamrin Nine Ballroom, UOB Plaza
Jl. Moh Thamrin 10, Central Jakarta
Rp 100.000 to Rp 125.000.
www.indonesianyouthconference.org

A Night of Colorful Symphonies
 
The JOS Youth Choir and Jakarta Sinfonia Orchestra join forces to present an evening of delightful music that the whole family can enjoy. The performance includes pieces from movie soundtracks and classics such as Igor Stravinsky’s “Symphony of Psalms.” 

Saturday, 7:30 p.m.
Aula Simfonia Jakarta, 
Jl. Industri Blok B 14 Kav. 1 North Jakarta
Rp 50,000 to Rp 1,000,000
Tel. 021 6586 7808 or 0877 7100 2009

8 Days

Catriona Richards

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday.

‘History of Islam’

Islam is the most widely followed religion in Indonesia, but have you ever wondered how it got here? Cartographer Giovanni De Agostini provides the answer to this question in an exhibition that traces the spread of Islam across the world from the 5th century AD to the present day. Come find out what put Islam on the map.

Closes Saturday
Museum Nasional
Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No. 12
Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 3927531

‘Rediscover the Star’

This documentary film from director Iwan Setiawan follows the stories of four everyday Jakartans in the aftermath of the May 1998 riots. Instead of pointing the finger of blame, the film asks viewers to see the event from different angles, forming a more complete picture of everything that happened. Catch this special screening at Salihara cultural center.

Tuesday, 7 p.m.
Salihara
Jl. Salihara No. 16, Pasar Minggu, South Jakarta
www.salihara.org

‘The Unseen’

Amid the chaos, much remains hidden in the cities and towns of Asia. Photographers Josua Alessandro, Sianny Widyasari and Leonardus Bramantya give viewers a privileged tour through the unseen spaces of Indonesia, Tibet and Indochina. Catch the exhibition before it lives up to its namesake .

Closes Wednesday
Dia.lo.gue artspace
Jl. Kemang Selatan No. 99A, Kemang, South Jakarta

‘Komposisi 50’

This retrospective takes a look back at 50 years of work by painter Sri Warso Wahono. In slathered layers and distorted forms, Warso opens a window into intimate human moments and raging natural scenes in his abstract paintings. See the work of this living legend of Indonesian painting before the exhibition ends this week.

Closes Thursday
Galeri Cipta II
Taman Ismail Marzuki
Cikini, Central Jakarta
www.tamanismailmarzuki.com

‘Collective Ground: The Gallery in the Midst of Market and Discourse’

The newly opened Gallery Rachel in Central Jakarta is making its first exhibition count. With a lineup featuring some of the biggest names in contemporary Indonesian art, this exhibition sees the gallery bursting onto the scene with more postmodern trickery than you can poke a paintbrush at. Get in the thick of it before the exhibition closes next week.

Closes Saturday
Gallery Rachel
UOB Plaza/ANZ Square
Jl. MH Thamrin No. 10, Central Jakarta
www.galleryrachel.com

‘My Grandpa, the Bankrobber’

Here’s a children’s film with some substance, too. This Dutch film tells the story of Grace, the only black child of an all-white family, who is determined to find her estranged father. Along the way, she employs the help of her grandfather, who suddenly finds his access cut off to the family funds. Now where will he find the money?

Saturday, 1:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.
Auditorium Erasmus Huis
Jl. HR Rasuna Said Kav. S-3, South Jakarta
www.erasmushuis.nlmission.org

8 Days

Catriona Richards

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday.

History of Islam  
Opening night: Monday, 7 p.m.
Exhibition runs until June 30
Museum Nasional
Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No. 12, Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 3927531

Islam is the most widely followed religion in Indonesia, but have you ever wondered: How did it get here? Cartographer Giovanni De Agostini provides the answer to this question in an exhibition that traces the spread of Islam across the world from 5 AD to the present day. Come find out how Islam came to be at the exhibit opening Monday night.  

Elektro Kif 
Monday, 8 p.m.
Graha Bhakti Budaya, Taman Ismail Marzuki
Jl. Cikini Raya No. 73, Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 3154087

Get popping, locking and disco dancing during a wild night of street moves from Blanca Li Dance Company. After shuffling its way through Europe and the United Kingdom, “Elektro Kif” is making its debut in Jakarta this week, with an explosive mix of urban dance, theater and performance art.  

Serambi Jazz
Thursday, 7:30 p.m.
Goethe Haus
Jl. Sam Ratulangi No. 9-15, Menteng, Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 23550208

The popular jazz series returns with a performance by supergroup LLW, featuring Indra Lesmana, Barry Likumahuwa and Sandy Winarta. Now in its fourth year, Serambi Jazz is an established name on the capital’s sizzling jazz scene, bringing the best beats to audiences all year round. Think of it as Java Jazz in June.  

Barney Space Adventures
Thursday to Sunday
Skenoo Hall, Gandaria City 3rd floor
Jl. Sultan Iskandar Muda, Kebayoran Lama, South Jakarta
www.rajakarcis.com

One small step for Barney, one giant leap for humanoid-reptile kind. The magenta dinosaur with the great big smile is back with an out-of-this-world adventure the kids will love. Catch Barney and pals live on stage for some singing and dancing “Space Adventures.”  

Jakarta Fair Kemayoran 2012  
Starts Thursday
Jakarta International Expo Pusat Niaga Building
Arena PRJ Kemayoran, Jakarta
Tel. 021 26645000
www.jakartafair.biz

Starting this Thursday, Jakarta International Expo is hosting 32 days of concerts from some of Indonesia’s best-known bands. The show kicks off on Thursday with boy band SM*SH and crooner Rio Febrian, followed by a rocking Friday night with Bali bands Superman is Dead and Navicula.  

Xiah Junsu 
Saturday
JITEC, Mangga Dua Square
Jl. Gunung Sahari,  North Jakarta
www.rajakarcis.com

Taking the lead role in the musical production “Mozart!” South Korean child star Xiah Junsu may have seen something of himself in the Austrian maestro. Like Mozart, Xiah has been a performer from a young age, having signed a 13-year contract with a talent agency at age 11. In 2009, he finally broke away from the contract, forming a new boy band, JYJ, with members of his previous group, TVXQ, and forging a musical theater career. Catch the young musician perform tracks from his debut solo album “Tarantellegra” here next weekend.  

Raden Saleh  
Until Sunday, June 17
Galeri Nasional
Jl. Medan Merdeka Timur, Central Jakarta 
www.radensaleh.jerin.or.id
Tel. 021 23550208

For the first time, the National Gallery is showing a monographic exhibition dedicated to the father of Indonesian modern art, Raden Saleh. The collection paints the picture of the Javanese nobleman who was open to foreign ideas, while always remaining dedicated to his homeland. Don’t miss this landmark exhibition. 

8 Days

Catriona Richards & Abdul Qowi Bastian

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday.

Beau Geste
Until Tuesday

Museum Nasional
Jl. Medan Merdeka Barat No. 12
Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 3868172

For the next few days, the usually somber National Museum is a riot of color, as an exhibition by Italian painter Ugo Nespolo comes to a close. The 70-year-old artist has witnessed different art movements in Italy and abroad, and emerged with no less of a lust for life. His latest aim is to bring back beauty, rescuing it from the critical eye of the postmodern and the avant-garde. Catch his take on life’s beauty this closing weekend.

Nhieu Mat
Tuesday, 8 p.m.

Graha Bakti Budaya
Taman Ismail Marzuki
Jl. Cikini Raya, Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 70077979

Vietnam’s past and present come together in this dance performance featuring nine dancers and two musicians from Hanoi. A blend of beatboxing, traditional instruments and dialogue accompany the dance, as the performers explore unconventional life choices made in a rapidly developing nation.

Christina Perri Live in Concert
Tuesday

Tennis Indoor Senayan
South Jakarta
Tel. 021 70077979

Don’t expect a meat dress at this diva’s performance — American singer-songwriter Christina Perri has a voice that’s been described as “sweet and full as custard,” as heard on her debut album “lovestrong.” But she’s not all sweetness and light. The tattooed 25-year-old divorcee knows plenty about heartbreak, as expressed in her hit single “Jar of Hearts.”

Potato Head: Director’s Night
Saturday
7.30 p.m.

Pacific Place G 51 A
Jl Jendral Sudirman Kav 52-53
Tel. 021 57973322
www.ptthead.com

Potato Head brings you some of the best short films around the country. Screening five short films by prominent Indonesian directors; Nia Dinata, Edwin, Joko Anwar, and Mo Brothrers, this is a night that celebrates the accolades of local industry. Director’s Night is followed by performance by indie musician Zeek Khaseli.

Artfordable Auction
Saturday

Mezzanine, The Energy Building
Sudirman Central Business District
South Jakarta
Tel. 021 72788366

If you start saving your pennies now, you might just make it. Sidharta Auctioneer is putting a host of contemporary masterpieces under the hammer on Saturday, including some stunning works by artists like Tresna Suryawan, Iwan Sulistyo and Faizin. And with the way Indonesia’s art scene is going today, the pennies you put down today may just turn into dollars tomorrow.

Perches
Saturday

Taman Fatahillah
Jl. Taman Fatahillah No. 1
West Jakarta
Tel. 021 6929101

Step right up! A circus is coming to Jakarta’s Old City next Saturday for a show called “Perches” — it’s French for stilts. Traveling troupe Chabatz D’Entrar will be giving more than the usual sideshow in a performance that aims to explore complex concepts of space, the body and problems that come from living together — on stilts, that is.

Raden Saleh
June 3 – 17

Galeri Nasional Indonesia
Jl. Medan Merdeka Timur No. 14
Central Jakarta
Tel. 021 23550208
www.radensaleh.jerin.or.id

A Javanese nobleman by birth and a European painter by education, Raden Saleh has long been recognized as the father of Indonesian modern art. Now, 200 years after the painter’s birth, a monographic exhibition of his work is being held for the first time in Indonesia.

8 Days

Catriona Richards & Abdul Qowi Bastian

Great ideas for things to do from now to next Sunday

Thibault Cauvin
Monday, May 28
8 p.m.
Erasmus Huis
Jl. HR Rasuna Said, Kav. S-3 Kuningan, South Jakarta
Tel. 021 5241069
 
He’s young, he’s French, he’s talented and he plays the guitar. Ladies, look out. Twenty-five-year-old classical guitarist Thibault Cauvin is coming to Jakarta. The prodigious musician began learning to play guitar at age 6, and by the time he was 20 had already won first place in 13 international guitar competitions across Europe. Come and see what all the fuss is about tomorrow night at Erasmus Huis in South Jakarta. 

Birdprayers
Thursday, May 31
8 p.m.
Potatohead Pacific Place
Jl. Jend Sudirman Kav 52-53
RSVP 021 57973322
www.ptthead.com

Birdprayers is an art performance by two artists by Sara Nuytemans (Belgium/Indonesia) and Arya Pandjalu (Indonesia). Birdprayers will showcase 12 performers wearing twelve custom-made masks (modeled after buildings referring to bird houses which are often found within the kampungs of Java) that represent identities across the globe, with music complimented by Indonesia’s renowned virtuoso, Dipha Barus.

NKOTBSB 
Friday, June 1
Mata Elang Stadium, Ancol, North Jakarta
www.rajakarcis.com

Oh.
My. God. Two of the biggest boy bands of all time in one show? That’s
right, the ’80s pop heroes New Kids On The Block have teamed up with the
’90s legendary Backstreet Boys for a mega show in Jakarta. So let’s not
get into semantics about when boys become men, or when kids become
adults — just grab your plaid and overalls, and get out to Mata Elang
Stadium this Friday. 

‘Maps, Re-Imagined’ 
Until June 10
Dia.lo.gue artspace
Jl. Kemang Selatan No. 99A South Jakarta
Tel. 021 72780457

Each of us have personal maps for our everyday lives: the roads we travel to our workplace, our favorite hangouts and family destinations. In this exhibition, which opened last Saturday at the Dia.lo.gue artspace, 12 artists and designers have re-imagined the places they visit every day to show Jakarta in a way you’ve never seen it before. 

Diego Menendez
Until June 22
Duta Fine Arts Foundation
Jl. Kemang Utara No. 55A South Jakarta
Tel. 021 7990226

Since 1996, Argentine artist Diego Menendez has made frequent trips to Indonesia, where he has always felt inspired by the bright, tropical surroundings. Indonesians now have the chance to see their country though his eyes, in an exhibition at the Duta Fine Arts Foundation in Kemang, South Jakarta.