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Antara, a theater by Erma Fatima, was successfully staged at Istana Budaya (IB) on 26 to 28 February. The staging, performed in conjunction of the Mawlid celebration, is joined by many big names in the entertainment industry such as Fahrin Ahmad, Nasha Aziz, Azizah Mahzan and Erma Fatima herself.
However, a few days before the Antara’s first show, its director Ellie Suriati withdrew from the production team and cited her dissatisfaction with Erma being the reason for her pulling out. Malaysian Digest caught up with Ellie at her residence in Bukit Damansara to explain what actually happened between her and Erma.
Malaysian Digest: Can you explain what is actually happened between you and Erma that has caused you withdraw from the play?
Ellie Suriati: The purpose of this theatre is to remind people about Islam. It’s not just simply an act. We want to convey message to people. This is not a modern or contemporary drama. This is an Islamic play. There are certain parts on the script that I did not agree. As a director, I made several changes to it and it is normal. I’ve decided to make those changes because I believe that it could cause misunderstanding. For example the scene where Prophet Adam and Hawa running in the park. I can’t agree with it. In Islam we can’t do it.
We are not talking about Adam and Eve here. We are talking about Adam and Hawa. I don’t understand why she insists to make that scene. And it is also unprofessional for her to interfere with my work. I have a problem working with people who has an agenda.
MD: Officially, who is actually the director?
ES: You go and ask Erma. This theatre was supposed to be directed by me. But she (Erma) claimed that she is the stage director during training. As she has announced that she is the director, then what is my role actually? Actors would get confused from getting directions from two directors. I’ve decided to withdraw before that happens.
Do you still contact her?
No.
Is it true that you left the theatre without her knowledge?
It’s not true at all. She knew I’ve decided not to direct the theatre. But to say that I left the theatre is unfair for me. Even after I’ve decided to withdraw from the production, I still come during the training, and during the actual performance day I did come to give my support. I don’t want the performance to be affected just because of my problem with Erma.
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Ellie Suriati
She claimed that you didn’t do any training with the actors. Any comment?
It’s not true at all. I don’t know what is her motive for that statement. We did train at the ballet studio. And on 20th February we trained at Istana Budaya (IB). I even had a chance to train with Azizah Mahzan and Fahrin. So there is no issue about me not doing any training with actors.
Why you didn’t want your name to be mentioned after the play?
I don’t want to be given a credit on other people’s effort. I did nothing for it.
How do you feel about this incident?
I felt very disappointed. The challenges to direct this production is so hard. It’s hard for me working with someone who is so stubborn. However, I won’t let this matter discourage me from directing theater in the future.
How do you see your relation with Erma in the future?
To be honest, I think that’s it. And I don’t need her to forgive me for what I’ve said as I’m telling the truth. Related News
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