By Brian Kwan

A script writer by day, a singer songwriter by night, Wani Ardy has a vision. A vision to see people come together to share about their wishes and dreams. Brian Kwan gets up close and personal with the lovely lady to find out more

What is Hari Bintang Jatuh?
Hari Bintang Jatuh is an event that focuses on storytelling through acoustic performances and poetry recitals, and getting audience to tell their stories as well. We want it to be a two-way thingy; not just the performers singing their hearts out. It's like, giving and taking.

Why name it that?
Bintang jatuh or shooting star, to us, is a symbol of wishes. People commonly make wishes upon shooting stars. From what I see, shooting star is also a representation of people whom we can't reach. It's up there and it feels so close, but we can't touch it. And before you know it, they're gone. I want the audience to open up and share their feelings about people or things that they've lost or can't reach. I want them to know that they're not alone.

So what is planned for this year’s Hari Bintang Jatuh?
The feedback that we got from Hari Bintang Jatuh '08 was overwhelming. 400 people came, out of our expectations. They jot down their secrets, wishes, feelings and stories on the Wall of Confessions that we prepared for them. This year the event will be smaller, focusing on Tiga Venus: Fynn Jamal the poet, Ana Raffali the singer-songwriter and I.
    Besides acoustic performances and poetry recitals, we also have a poetry circle named Satu Puisi Persegi, conducted by Ashraf Ishak, a poet and Shaira Amira, a writer. Plus, special appearance by Rina S, a multi-instrumentalist Sabahan - small girl with big voice. Instead of a wall, this time we'll have a Tree of Confessions. We're very excited to see it blooming with thoughts of people who will come over.

What do you want to achieve with this event?
We hope Hari Bintang Jatuh '09: Tiga Venus will be more laid back this year. Last year was merry, but I personally feel guilty for not providing a bigger space. I think it's important to make the audience feels comfortable if we want to create a two-way communication in the event. I guess by holding it in The Annexe Gallery, the atmosphere will be more intimate and that was actually our original objective.

Hari Bintang Jatuh '09: Tiga Venus takes place at the Annexe Gallery on May 31, 1pm onwards. Visit waniardy.com for more details

Photo credit: Aznaim Abdullah