The Last Tantagas: A Living Echo of Ancestral Wisdom By FAVSTYLE

Photo courtesy to

Adsone Matthew Mitty Gabu

In an age where speed often eclipses memory, The Last Tantagas, Keeper of the Sacred Texts arrives like a quiet but powerful invocation. This moving musical performance gently yet firmly reminds us of what is slowly fading from view. The ancient wisdom of the Dusun Lotud tantagas, the traditional healer and keeper of sacred knowledge.

The production unfolds as both theatre and testimony. Through music, movement, and storytelling, it explores the vanishing lineage of the tantagas. Not as myth, but as lived heritage. The performance resonates deeply, especially for those whose lives were once touched by such figures. Women and men who healed not only the body, but also the spirit.

For many in the audience, the story stirred personal memories. Of grandmothers and elders whose hands carried remedies for every ache and every childhood complaint. Whose love was unwavering, whose presence was grounding, and whose wisdom flowed without books or screens. These were the original guardians of balance, community, and care.

The cast and creative team delivered a performance rich with sincerity and cultural reverence. Each scene felt intentional, honouring tradition while making it accessible to a modern audience. It was not simply entertainment. It was remembrance.

Special commendation goes to the organiser, Ms Judith J. Baptist, and her dedicated crew, whose vision brought this important narrative to life. The commitment of the performers, including standout contributions from the ensemble, reflects a shared responsibility to protect and celebrate indigenous heritage through the arts.

Photo courtesy to 
Dennis Dean Patrick and Suzanne Lujain-Bingkasa

The Last Tantagas is more than a musical. It is a cultural bridge between generations. A reminder that while traditions may fade, they do not disappear as long as stories continue to be told.

Photo courtesy to

Rozza Rothman

At FAVSTYLE, we celebrate works like this. Where art becomes archive, performance becomes preservation, and culture is allowed to breathe again on stage.

Photo courtesy to

Joanna Kitingan