It's that time of the year where brands all around will populate their pre-existing logos with hearts and roses and flood social media with all the things one should be gifting their significant other on Valentines. Well, Valentines Day or not, the theatre always has much love and empathy to offer, from dishing out truthful accounts of everyday life, to bringing us the fantastical in ways that we can relate to them. The theatre is space of understanding. And being understood is an act of love too. This February, head to the theatre for some truly special performances:
Chandni Raatein | Hindi, English
When: Saturday & Sunday, 1 & 2 February
Where: Bal Gandharva Rang Mandir
What: There's no doubt that Purva Naresh brings hauntingly beautiful melodies and mesmerizing choreographies together in her musicals. Which is why we're eager to catch her musical adaptation of Dostoevsky's White Nights. A short story that has seen countless screen adaptations, now makes its way onto the stage. The original short story is set in Russia during the 4 nights where the sun doesn't set and follows a restless, melancholic young man as he stumbles upon an unrequited romance. Purva Naresh's version, still set in Russia, is delivered in Hindi and has some twists and turns up its sleeve, promising an entertaining evening like no other. This also happens to be the second Aadyam play this season! So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets! Know More
Garam Roti | English, Tamil
When: Tuesday & Wednesday, 4 & 5 February Where: Prithvi Theatre, Mumbai What: After receiving much love at Thespo 26, Durga Venkatesan's Garam Roti is back at Prithvi Theatre this month. Durga is human, and Lakshmi is her sentient stereo player. Despite their obvious differences, the two have quite a lot in common. They both are artists, they both are determined to unravel the complexities of womanhood, and neither can make a garam roti. Writer, director, and performer Durga Venkatesan endearingly weaves relatable anecdotes of being brought up in two vastly different cultures while delving into the trepidations that keep her up at night. From falling asleep during a show to doing math and making a roti, she bravely confronts the mundane and not-so-mundane anxieties of everyday life in a witty and tongue-in-cheek performance. Know More
Kavan | Hindi
When: Saturday & Sunday, 8 & 9 February Where: Prithvi Theatre What: A performance delivered using thought-provoking poetry and stirring songs, Kavan is an Ambedkarite opera that delves into caste, resistance, and identity, offering an urgent and deeply moving experience. The story follows Bejul and those around him as they navigate their dreams, painting desires and dilemmas. A play about young Ambedkarite experiences inspired by real events, it paints a vivid picture of India today with all its biases and contradictions while drawing from the tradition of Ambedkari Shahiri Jalsa. The premise has got us hooked—it's an important story, it's relevant, and the format is intriguing. We can't wait to catch this one! Know More
It Takes Two | English
When: Saturday, 15 February Where: Godrej Dance Theatre, NCPA What: A sharp and witty two-hander, this play is completely improvised. Which means each time you catch it, you're watching a brand-new performance. The way it works is the performers spend the first few minutes getting to know their audience, and it is from this very interaction that they develop a narrative for the evening. There is no discussion whatsoever—the performers simply jump into action. Sahir Mehta and Manik Papneja have incredible presence on stage. They are both quick on their feet and bring to the piece a lot of heart—which is not something we've come across in a lot of improv shows. The two also steer clear of the obvious jokes and punchlines, avoiding low-hanging fruit and delivering thoughtful humor. If a lighthearted, fun-filled evening is what you're after, this show is for you. Know More
The F Word | English
When: Saturday, 15 February Where: Rangshila Theatre What: The F Word isn't something you casually bring up in small talk when you've just met someone. It’s the kind of word that carries weight, history, and a whole lot of baggage. You've probably caught on to what we're talking about—F-A-M-I-L-Y. The ties that bind, the ones that shape us, break us, and sometimes, if we're lucky, bring us back together. Akarsh Khurana's play follows two estranged siblings as they take their father out for dinner one evening, following a disturbing revelation from their parent's caretaker. It's evident from the get-go that no one really gets along in this f***** family. As the evening unfolds, the dirty laundry begins to air itself out. This play is about relationships, how we often hurt one another—albeit unintentionally and sometimes intentionally—and whose responsibility it is to heal. The conversations are thoughtful, well-constructed, and full of feeling—and hilarious too. For a play dealing with such intricate themes, The F Word sure is funny. And Akash Khurana is just a pleasure to watch! Know More
Same Same But Different | Hindi, English
When: Sunday, 16 February Where: Chaubara - by Veda Factory What: A lesson in listening, Same Same But Different isn't just captivating because of the beautiful melodies it brings our way—it is the way in which it offers insight about two drastically different musicians that inspires empathy amongst its spectators. The play also provides a glimpse into the lives of artists, what brings forth inspiration, what drives one to continue one’s practice, and the hurdles one encounters on the way. It goes without saying that you can buckle up for one enjoyable musical ride with live singing and a band too! Know More
Picnic With Playwrights
When: Sunday, 16 February Where: Tata Gardens, NCPA What: Bringing together playwrights, musicians, and theatre enthusiasts, Bhasha Centre has taken to turning the NCPA's Tata Gardens into a beautiful picnic venue. Catch insightful conversations while the sea breeze keeps you company. This Picnic With Playwrights features Irawati Karnik and Sharanya Ramprakah. The two playwrights will delve into writing as feminists, writing in different languages, and much more. Indulge in some nariyal paani or cold coffee and sway to the rhythm of Prerna's djembe and flute. Know More
Great Text Reading - Space Girl | English
When: Monday, 24 February
Where: Andheri West
What:
It’s the second season of reading plays about outer space, and this time, we're following the story of Arugula Suarez, an alien girl who just wants to fit in. Apart from a fun read, you'll also get to catch some biscuits and squash—a must-have at these participative play readings. The discussions after the reading are the most interesting bit! What better way to end a Monday?
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The Far Post | Lepcha, Nonverbal
When: Tuesday & Wednesday, 25 & 26 February
Where Prithvi Theatre
What:
Postman Aunty lives right in the middle of two warring countries with her pet goldfish, her house and the area surrounding it divided by a wire separating the two sides. Every day she sets out to deliver letters to soldiers on both sides of the conflict, clocking in and out every time she needs to cross the border. One day, her world is turned upside down when she is appointed to accompany the souls of two martyred enemy soldiers to the afterlife. Dealing with themes of war, loss and empathy, the piece is a nonverbal one accompanies by some soul stirring music by Lepcha folk fusion band, Sofiyum. And for this show, you can catch them live!
The visuals of this play are simply beautiful, the masks that are used are just stunning and Yuki Elias is a treat to watch.
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