Many characters are played in the Reog Ponorogo Arts, from warok, jathil, bujang ganong, Prabu Klonosewandono to the dancer Dadak Merak.
Exceptional physical abilities are required by the artisans who are able to lift the Dadak merak weighing tens of kilograms.
In Ponorogo, there are unique Reog artists or players, because they are twin brothers, named Suwondo and Suwandi. In fact, both of these can be said to be well-known maestro.
Having reached 65 years of age, Mbah Wondo and Mbah Wandi, as they are affectionately called, are still active as Pembarong and are part of the journey of Reog Ponorogo’s artistic heritage.
Their physical strength now may not be possible if they suddenly lift a dadak merak that weighs approximately 50 kilograms.
The depth of love for Reog art is passed down through the family lineage. “Art’s blood runs in our blood,” said Suwondo.
Devotion as Reog artists is not just a job, but also a lifestyle they enjoy. Their long experience since the 80s proves their dedication that never fades.
Listening to Reog music every day is one way for them to keep their artistic spirit alive. “Because I like it, I never get bored,” he said.
Mbah Wondo and Mbah Wandi once proved their physical abilities when one of them suddenly broke a Dadak merak in a performance. Their work has also reached foreign countries, when they appeared in Suriname with the Reyog Ponorogo art group.
Now they are preparing successors by teaching the art of Reog dance to the younger generation, regenerating this tradition.
“There must be our cadres or successors, so that the Reog Ponorogo arts will continue to exist,” concluded Mbah Wandi.
Their love for Reog Ponorogo art is the main driving force in preserving and developing this cultural heritage.
Through a simple key – “roso seneng” (taste of joy), herbal turmeric, Javanese eggs, and honey – they have managed to exist as contractors for nearly four decades.
The story of Mbah Wondo and Mbah Wandi not only reflects dedication to local arts and culture, but also an unshakable passion in maintaining the authenticity of traditions that are rich in meaning and value. Adv/Ptr
