The S1 English Literature Study Program at Universitas Negeri Semarang (UNNES) successfully staged an English-language musical drama performance titled “Midnight in Broadway” at the B6 Performing Arts Hall, FBS, on Saturday, June 13, 2026. Three Broadway adaptations were featured in the event: La La Land, Grease, and West Side Story.
The event, which was part of the Theatre course project, showcased students’ abilities in singing, dancing, and acting in English. Running from 3:30 PM to 10:00 PM local time, the performance successfully attracted 400 audience members from various backgrounds, both from within and outside UNNES.
The lecturers for the Theatre course, Mohamad Ikhwan Rosyidi, S.S., M.A., Zuhrul Anam, S.S., M.Hum., Sri Sumaryani, S.S., M.A., and Ruly Indra Darmawan, S.S., M.Hum., stated that students had prepared the performance for approximately four months. According to them, the show served as a form of documentation and appreciation of the socio-cultural values embedded in dramatic works originating from English-speaking countries.
“Students not only learn theory in the classroom but also practice their English language skills through performing arts. This lengthy preparation process trains discipline, teamwork, and creativity,” said Mohamad Ikhwan Rosyidi.
From Broadway New York to Gunungpati
In her address, the Coordinator of the S1 English Literature Study Program at UNNES, Dr. Rahayu Puji Haryanti, M.Hum., emphasized that the event successfully brought Broadway performances from New York to Gunungpati. She considered the activity a form of student contribution in the fields of literature and performing arts as part of the global community.
“Midnight in Broadway proves that UNNES English Literature students are capable of competing in the performing arts scene. They not only master English theoretically but are also able to apply it in artistic works that can be enjoyed by the wider community,” said Dr. Rahayu.
She added that students are trained to contribute as members of the global community so that upon graduation, they are confident in implementing English across various fields. The event received support from various sponsors who contributed in the form of funds, goody bags, and vouchers.
High Enthusiasm and Future Hopes
The performance, featuring impressive stage design, costumes, and choreography, received a warm response from the audience. The three musical adaptations successfully immersed the audience in the storylines and energetic music—from the liveliness of Grease, the romance of La La Land, to the social conflicts in West Side Story.
The students involved as lead and supporting actors demonstrated excellent acting, vocal, and dance skills, reflecting months of thorough preparation. The success in selling 400 tickets served as evidence of the public’s high enthusiasm for literature and English-based performing arts.
The event is expected to be held annually and to inspire students to continue creating and contributing to the fields of literature, performing arts, and the creative industries in the future.
“We hope Midnight in Broadway becomes an annual event that people look forward to. This is a platform for students to express themselves, hone their skills, and introduce literary musical works to the wider community,” Dr. Rahayu concluded.
Supporting Quality Education and Sustainable Communities
The Midnight in Broadway event aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through this performance, students not only sharpen their English language and performing arts skills but also develop critical thinking, creativity, and teamwork—key components of quality education (SDG 4). Furthermore, the event, which involved collaboration between students, lecturers, sponsors, and the community, strengthened an inclusive and sustainable community ecosystem (SDG 11) by providing an accessible platform for arts appreciation across various segments of society. Thus, Midnight in Broadway serves as evidence that language and arts education can serve as a bridge between the academic world and meaningful contributions to the global community.
