Jakarta. Indonesia's first deaf musical "JEMARI" amassed huge crowds of people on Dec. 3-7 at Komunitas Salihara, Jakarta.

The event sought to commemorate the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. "JEMARI" also aims to convey the message that everyone has equal space on the arts stage and in life.

"JEMARI" tells the story of Mentari, a deaf dancer who has lost her passion for dancing since the death of her father, Gusti, a legendary musician. Mentari feels lonely until one day a young producer named Awan arrives, seeking to revive the studio that her father left behind. A series of events between Awan and Mentari resurfaces old wounds, opening her heart and an unexpected love. "JEMARI" tells the story of loss, the courage to love, and the belief that honest love can transcend the language barrier between the deaf and hearing worlds.

During its five-day run, "JEMARI" was seen by audiences of various backgrounds and ages, both deaf and hearing. The combination of sign language, music, movement, and theater left a profound emotional impression, transporting the audience into a space of inclusivity, a palpable experience.

With "JEMARI", Fantasi Tuli became the first deaf community in Indonesia  to stage a full-scale independent musical production. 

"Everything we do requires access. 'JEMARI' proves that access creates possibility. With the right access, the right environment, and the right people, every talent can shine. It's not about giving space, but about sharing space," said "JEMARI" Musical Producer Pascal Meliala.

"JEMARI" not only marks the debut of a musical collaboration between the hearing and deaf worlds, but also reminds us that sharing space is the foundation for equality and collaboration. Through a bilingual meeting between the hearing and deaf worlds, "JEMARI" presents a single stage for a common purpose: to tell stories and prove that inclusion is not just a concept, but a real experience that can be lived, celebrated, and shared with more people.

"JEMARI" marks the beginning of a long journey towards a more inclusive performing arts ecosystem. Fantasi Tuli also plans to launch a skills development program in 2026.