Hyderabad: ‘Project Darling’by Sharanya Ramprakash, winner of Shankar Nag Theatre Award, 2022, commissioned by Prakash Raj (Kannada, Bangalore), ‘Nidravatwam’ & ‘Urmila’ by Adishakti (English, Pondicherry), ‘The Gentleman’s Club’ (English) and ‘Shikaar’ by Patchworks Ensemble (Hindi, Mumbai), ‘He’by Rodrigo Calderon (English, Australia) – for the only India show, are just some of the many incredible performances at the highly anticipated, second edition of the month-long ‘Manam Theatre Festival,2024, presented by The We_Us Collective (an Almond House Foundation initiative). Spanning five weeks from November 15, 2024, to December 15, 2024, in Hyderabad, this year’s festival brings together an exceptional line-up of theatre troupes from India and abroad, offering a captivating blend of cutting-edge performances, from ground-breaking contemporary pieces to interpretations of revered classics. Manam Theatre Festival 2024 embraces a rich diversity of theatrical and artistic forms, from timeless classics to bold, experimental works. Traditional performances rooted in cultural heritage will stand alongside avant-garde creations that challenge and expand the boundaries of theatre. This coexistence honours the full spectrum of artistic expression, offering audiences a vibrant experience where history and innovation intertwine, enriching the collective journey for both performers and audiences. Expect to be enthralled by critically acclaimed performances of eminent theatre personalities including Rodrigo Calderon from Australia, Nimmy Raphel, Vinay Kumar, Puja Sarup, Sheena Khalid, and a host of brilliant artists.
Starting November 15th, 2024, the festival brings together bouquets of five weeks of performances, people, and places. Each weekend promises a unique theatrical journey, showcasing the vibrant diversity and boundless creativity that define today’s theatre scene. Sprinkled around these weekends are an array of engaging fringe events. Beyond performances, the festival welcomes visiting troupes for week-long engagements, including workshops and thought-provoking discussions, aimed at inspiring and educating the next generation of theatre enthusiasts. Attendees can look forward to a series of insightful panel discussions, interactive workshops, and exclusive meet-and-greets featuring some of the most celebrated figures in the theatre world. These events provide a rare opportunity for audiences to delve deeper into the creative processes and artistic visions behind the performances. The last week of the festival is completely dedicated to the curious & creative children of Hyderabad – a collaboration with Hyderabad Children’s Theatre Festival brings two plays by Gillo Repertory Theatre for the young minds. When the curtains come down on the festival, the organisers aim to have immersed thousands of people in the city into the world of theatre with a month of unforgettable shows and immersive cultural exchange that celebrates the transformative power of live performance. To ensure an accessible and immersive experience for all, the festival will be staged across multiple venues – NIFT, Saptaparni, Rangbhoomi Spaces, and others. For more details on the schedule, visit the Manam Theatre Festival website. Passes are available at Zomato Insider.
Highlights of this year’s performances include ‘Project Darling’ by Sharanya Ramprakashis an exploration of women’s roles in theatre, culture, and tradition, tracing the legacy of the iconic Kannada character Khanavali Chenni. Award-winning writer-director-performer Rodrigo Calderon, known for his exploration of movement-based theatre and communal storytelling, brings his latest work ‘He’, first time to India, a play that delves into themes of memory, familial bonds, and the haunting return to one’s roots in post-civil war El Salvador. ‘The Gentlemen’s Club, performed by Patchworks Ensemble and directed by Sheena Khalid and Puja Sarup (Winner of multiple (META) Mahindra Excellence in Theatre Awards), is a unique exploration of drag king culture, blending their signature playful storytelling with a tribute to Bollywood’s golden era through an immersive cabaret experience. Adishakti’s play ‘Urmila’ presents a deeply reflective narrative on autonomy and gender dynamics within the Ramayana, exemplifying Adishakti’s dedication to reinterpreting ancient epics through a modern lens, and their play ‘Nidravatwam’ brings the timeless Ramayana characters Kumbakarna and Lakshmana into focus, exploring how their mystical boons become unintended curses, showcasing Adishakti’s expertise in blending myth with innovative performance techniques. Manam Theatre Festival in collaboration with Hyderabad Children’s Theatre Festival together presents Gillo Repertory Theatre’s ‘The Ghost of the Mountains’ – a gripping Ladakhi story of a young boy’s bravery, enhanced by spectacular visuals that captivate the audience, and ‘Mister Jeejeebhoy and the Birds’ – a whimsical adventure with siblings, a quirky aunt, and magical birds.
“At its heart, Manam Theatre Festival 2024 is more than a celebration of theatre. It is a convergence of diverse voices and perspectives, where experiences are shared, and a true sense of belonging is nurtured. This year’s theme, ‘Together, We Belong’, embodies the spirit of inclusion, creating a space where people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds can come together. said Harika Vedula, Founder and Director, of Manam Theatre Festival & Founder, of The We_Us Collective.
“For Almond House and Manam Chocolate, craft, and craftspeople have been an inseparable part of our journey and story. Manam Theatre Festival helps further our desire to interpret brands not merely as commerce but as social enterprises.” – Chaitanya Muppala – CEO, Almond House & Founder, Manam Chocolate.