Archives
Archives
Odakalu Bimba (2005)
- Kannada
- 70 minutes
- Girish Karnad
- Girish Karnad | KM Chaitanya
Manjula Nayak is not a very successful Kannada short-story writer. She attains sudden wealth and international fame after writing a best-seller in English. The question that haunts Manjula is whether by opting for a global audience, she has betrayed her own language and identity. She now faces issues of loyalty and betrayal. And, without warning, it is her own image that decides to play confessor, psychologist and inquisitor. The play explores the dilemma that is faced by Indian writers who choose to write in English, and is a scathing look at the Indian literary establishment as well as a moving story of conflict and the desire for fame. It is also one of the first plays that straddled the world of theatre and technology in Indian theatre.
Odakalu Bimba (2005)
- Kannada
- 70 minutes
- Girish Karnad
- Girish Karnad | KM Chaitanya
Manjula Nayak is not a very successful Kannada short-story writer. She attains sudden wealth and international fame after writing a best-seller in English. The question that haunts Manjula is whether by opting for a global audience, she has betrayed her own language and identity. She now faces issues of loyalty and betrayal. And, without warning, it is her own image that decides to play confessor, psychologist and inquisitor. The play explores the dilemma that is faced by Indian writers who choose to write in English, and is a scathing look at the Indian literary establishment as well as a moving story of conflict and the desire for fame. It is also one of the first plays that straddled the world of theatre and technology in Indian theatre.
A Heap of Broken Images (2005)
- English
- 70 minutes
- /
- Girish Karnad
The English translation of Odakalu Bimba.
A Heap of Broken Images (2005)
- English
- 70 minutes
- /
- Girish Karnad
The English translation of Odakalu Bimba.
Bikhre Bimb (2006)
- Hindi
- 70 minutes
- /
- Girish Karnad
The Hindi translation of Odakalu Bimba.
Bikhre Bimb (2006)
- Hindi
- 70 minutes
- /
- Girish Karnad
The Hindi translation of Odakalu Bimba.
Flowers (2006)
- English
- 70 minutes
- Girish Karnad
- Royston Abel
Girish Karnad’s new play is a dramatic monologue about a devoted and pious priest who violates both his dharma and his bhakti because of his love for a courtesan. Torn between his love for his God and his love for Chandravati, between his duty to the king and his duty to his wife, the priest tells the story of his life after matters have come to a head and all his loves and duties collide on a single night. Once again, Karnad takes a folk tale about the human condition and refreshes it with a contemporary sensibility that embraces love, loyalty and honor.
Flowers (2006)
- English
- 70 minutes
- Girish Karnad
- Royston Abel
Girish Karnad’s new play is a dramatic monologue about a devoted and pious priest who violates both his dharma and his bhakti because of his love for a courtesan. Torn between his love for his God and his love for Chandravati, between his duty to the king and his duty to his wife, the priest tells the story of his life after matters have come to a head and all his loves and duties collide on a single night. Once again, Karnad takes a folk tale about the human condition and refreshes it with a contemporary sensibility that embraces love, loyalty and honor.
Gumma Banda Gumma (2006)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- S. Surendranath
- Vibhawari Deshpande
“Gumma Banda Gumma” (Kannada, 90 mins) is for children 5 years and above, and parents and grandparents! An eternal entertainer with children and parents that brings their life unfolding on stage! ‘Gumma Banda Gumma’ an adaptation of the original German play, Max Und Milli. [Max and Milli] is a five character play performed in the tradition of GRIPS Theatre.
The play focuses on the ability of a child to communicate and bond with another regardless of all the barriers adults create. It is about unconditional friendship, sibling love and rivalry, parent child relationships and how all of these can be quite full of fun and happiness.
Gumma Banda Gumma (2006)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- S. Surendranath
- Vibhawari Deshpande
“Gumma Banda Gumma” (Kannada, 90 mins) is for children 5 years and above, and parents and grandparents! An eternal entertainer with children and parents that brings their life unfolding on stage! ‘Gumma Banda Gumma’ an adaptation of the original German play, Max Und Milli. [Max and Milli] is a five character play performed in the tradition of GRIPS Theatre.
The play focuses on the ability of a child to communicate and bond with another regardless of all the barriers adults create. It is about unconditional friendship, sibling love and rivalry, parent child relationships and how all of these can be quite full of fun and happiness.
First Leaf (2007)
- English
- 70 minutes
- Shrirang Godbole
- Padmavati Rao
“The First Leaf” tells the inspiring story of Putti, her brother Dodu and friend Chinna who live in a time of imminent environmental catastrophe, which is as real as today and looms as close as tomorrow. The three young students explore their surroundings through fantasy and fun with the new tenant in their residential complex, who breathes new meaning into all he touches and encounters. The lesson ultimately learnt is one of protecting Planet Earth
First Leaf (2007)
- English
- 70 minutes
- Shrirang Godbole
- Padmavati Rao
“The First Leaf” tells the inspiring story of Putti, her brother Dodu and friend Chinna who live in a time of imminent environmental catastrophe, which is as real as today and looms as close as tomorrow. The three young students explore their surroundings through fantasy and fun with the new tenant in their residential complex, who breathes new meaning into all he touches and encounters. The lesson ultimately learnt is one of protecting Planet Earth
Hakki Harutide Nodidira (2009)
- Hindi
- 90 minutes
- Vijay Tendulkar | Prema Karanth
- Manav Kaul
Despite a few markers of 1970, the year in which the play was first staged, “Ashi pakhare yeti” still has universal appeal. Our society is still obsessed with getting daughters married; daughters are still traumatized by the “seeing” experience; the social value of a woman and her self-esteem still depend on whether she finds a man to marry her or not, and finally, the girl must still present herself to the prospective groom’s side in a light that matches their values and ideas of beauty. For all these reasons, “Ashi pakhare yeti” speaks to us wittily of who we are. The Kannada translation of the play, directed by Manav Kaul will serve as a test of its universality.
Hakki Harutide Nodidira (2009)
- Hindi
- 90 minutes
- Vijay Tendulkar | Prema Karanth
- Manav Kaul
Despite a few markers of 1970, the year in which the play was first staged, “Ashi pakhare yeti” still has universal appeal. Our society is still obsessed with getting daughters married; daughters are still traumatized by the “seeing” experience; the social value of a woman and her self-esteem still depend on whether she finds a man to marry her or not, and finally, the girl must still present herself to the prospective groom’s side in a light that matches their values and ideas of beauty. For all these reasons, “Ashi pakhare yeti” speaks to us wittily of who we are. The Kannada translation of the play, directed by Manav Kaul will serve as a test of its universality.
Anthheen (2009)
- Hindi
- 70 minutes
- Jean-Paul Sartre
- Manav Kaul
‘Antaheen’ is a Hindi play based on Jean-Paul Sartre’s famous play, “In Camera”/ “Huis Clos”. “Antaheen” talks about how hell is not what we imagine it to be but is something that can be self- created and need not be an after -life destination. The play tries to seamlessly remove the distinctions between life and death.
Anthheen (2009)
- Hindi
- 70 minutes
- Jean-Paul Sartre
- Manav Kaul
‘Antaheen’ is a Hindi play based on Jean-Paul Sartre’s famous play, “In Camera”/ “Huis Clos”. “Antaheen” talks about how hell is not what we imagine it to be but is something that can be self- created and need not be an after -life destination. The play tries to seamlessly remove the distinctions between life and death.
Zapperdockel and the Wock (2009)
- English
- 55 minutes
- Georg Bydlinksi
- Wally and Paul Schmidt
Zapperdockel is yellow, tiny, unsure and a crybaby. But that’s the way he is! Wock is blue, fat and grumpy. But that’s the way he is! Is there still a chance that both get along with each other? “The Zapperdockel and the Wock” is the touching story of the beginning of a friendship between two creatures that couldn’t be more different from each other.
Produced by Ranga Shankara, in association with Goethe Institut/Max-Mueller Bhavan, Bangalore.
Zapperdockel and the Wock (2009)
- English
- 55 minutes
- Georg Bydlinksi
- Wally and Paul Schmidt
Zapperdockel is yellow, tiny, unsure and a crybaby. But that’s the way he is! Wock is blue, fat and grumpy. But that’s the way he is! Is there still a chance that both get along with each other? “The Zapperdockel and the Wock” is the touching story of the beginning of a friendship between two creatures that couldn’t be more different from each other.
Produced by Ranga Shankara, in association with Goethe Institut/Max-Mueller Bhavan, Bangalore.
Robinson Crusoe (2010)
- English
- 60 minutes
- Nina D’Intrino Giacomo Ravicchio
- Gracias Devaraj
Robinson and Crusoe tells the story of two soldiers from opposing sides stranded on a floating roof after their planes are shot down. Initially wary, they gradually build a bond that transcends their differences. The play highlights the futility of war, the loneliness it imposes, and celebrates the triumph of the human spirit. Filled with comedy, action, and heartfelt moments, it delivers a heartwarming message that friendship conquers all.
Robinson Crusoe (2010)
- English
- 60 minutes
- Nina D’Intrino Giacomo Ravicchio
- Gracias Devaraj
Robinson and Crusoe tells the story of two soldiers from opposing sides stranded on a floating roof after their planes are shot down. Initially wary, they gradually build a bond that transcends their differences. The play highlights the futility of war, the loneliness it imposes, and celebrates the triumph of the human spirit. Filled with comedy, action, and heartfelt moments, it delivers a heartwarming message that friendship conquers all.
Raja Tantra Choo Mantra (2013)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- /
- Vinod Ravindran
‘Raja Tantra Choo Mantra’ explores life’s harsh realities alongside inner turmoil. Featuring an evil king, a girl with unique abilities, and a nation’s quest for peace, the play reveals that many conflicts are internal. Storytellers use objects and puppets, accompanied by music from toy instruments, blending weighty themes with a lighter touch.
Raja Tantra Choo Mantra (2013)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- /
- Vinod Ravindran
‘Raja Tantra Choo Mantra’ explores life’s harsh realities alongside inner turmoil. Featuring an evil king, a girl with unique abilities, and a nation’s quest for peace, the play reveals that many conflicts are internal. Storytellers use objects and puppets, accompanied by music from toy instruments, blending weighty themes with a lighter touch.
The Incredible Mullah Nasruddin (2013)
- English
- 60 minutes
- /
- Pushan Kripalani
The Incredible Mullah Nasruddin” is a play based on the witty tales of Mullah Nasruddin, known as the ‘Wisest Fool’. Directed by Pushan Kriplani, the play follows Nasruddin’s journey from Arabia to India in search of intelligence. It features improvised performances by five actors and incorporates sand art as a unifying element, highlighting Nasruddin’s compelling stories.
The Incredible Mullah Nasruddin (2013)
- English
- 60 minutes
- /
- Pushan Kripalani
The Incredible Mullah Nasruddin” is a play based on the witty tales of Mullah Nasruddin, known as the ‘Wisest Fool’. Directed by Pushan Kriplani, the play follows Nasruddin’s journey from Arabia to India in search of intelligence. It features improvised performances by five actors and incorporates sand art as a unifying element, highlighting Nasruddin’s compelling stories.
Maryade Prashne (2014)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- Lutz Huebener | S. Surendranath
- S. Surendranath
The play deals with the concerns of youth and their unmindful rage. Four youths, one jolly road trip and a tragic end! The four of them are entangled in the complex web of love, betrayal, rage and egos and what follows is shocking. Originally written by German playwright, Lutz Hubner, the play delves into reality theatre by traversing through the lives of 4 young, distinct individuals, each from a different socio-cultural background. The play questions society’s stereotypes and other delicate nuances like issues of migrants, gender-politics and money-power. As the name suggests, the 90-minute play makes different observations of respect which is central to each character.
Maryade Prashne (2014)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- Lutz Huebener | S. Surendranath
- S. Surendranath
The play deals with the concerns of youth and their unmindful rage. Four youths, one jolly road trip and a tragic end! The four of them are entangled in the complex web of love, betrayal, rage and egos and what follows is shocking. Originally written by German playwright, Lutz Hubner, the play delves into reality theatre by traversing through the lives of 4 young, distinct individuals, each from a different socio-cultural background. The play questions society’s stereotypes and other delicate nuances like issues of migrants, gender-politics and money-power. As the name suggests, the 90-minute play makes different observations of respect which is central to each character.
Gumma Banda Gumma (2015)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- S. Surendranath
- Sundar Veena
“Gumma Banda Gumma” (Kannada, 90 mins) is for children 5 years and above, and parents and grandparents! An eternal entertainer with children and parents that brings their life unfolding on stage! ‘Gumma Banda Gumma’ an adaptation of the original German play, Max Und Milli. [Max and Milli] is a five character play performed in the tradition of GRIPS Theatre.
The play focuses on the ability of a child to communicate and bond with another regardless of all the barriers adults create. It is about unconditional friendship, sibling love and rivalry, parent child relationships and how all of these can be quite full of fun and happiness.
Gumma Banda Gumma (2015)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- S. Surendranath
- Sundar Veena
“Gumma Banda Gumma” (Kannada, 90 mins) is for children 5 years and above, and parents and grandparents! An eternal entertainer with children and parents that brings their life unfolding on stage! ‘Gumma Banda Gumma’ an adaptation of the original German play, Max Und Milli. [Max and Milli] is a five character play performed in the tradition of GRIPS Theatre.
The play focuses on the ability of a child to communicate and bond with another regardless of all the barriers adults create. It is about unconditional friendship, sibling love and rivalry, parent child relationships and how all of these can be quite full of fun and happiness.
Gumma Banda Gumma (2016)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- /
- S. Surendranath
“Gumma Banda Gumma” (Kannada, 90 mins) is for children 5 years and above, and parents and grandparents! An eternal entertainer with children and parents that brings their life unfolding on stage! ‘Gumma Banda Gumma’ an adaptation of the original German play, Max Und Milli. [Max and Milli] is a five character play performed in the tradition of GRIPS Theatre.
The play focuses on the ability of a child to communicate and bond with another regardless of all the barriers adults create. It is about unconditional friendship, sibling love and rivalry, parent child relationships and how all of these can be quite full of fun and happiness.
Gumma Banda Gumma (2016)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- /
- S. Surendranath
“Gumma Banda Gumma” (Kannada, 90 mins) is for children 5 years and above, and parents and grandparents! An eternal entertainer with children and parents that brings their life unfolding on stage! ‘Gumma Banda Gumma’ an adaptation of the original German play, Max Und Milli. [Max and Milli] is a five character play performed in the tradition of GRIPS Theatre.
The play focuses on the ability of a child to communicate and bond with another regardless of all the barriers adults create. It is about unconditional friendship, sibling love and rivalry, parent child relationships and how all of these can be quite full of fun and happiness.
Dweepa (2016)
- Kannada
- 120 minutes
- /
- Abhishek Majumdar
Dweepa, is an original Bangla play, written by Abhishek Majumdar, premiering in Kannada at the Ranga Shankara Theatre Festival. The play is about two people who are blown away in a storm to an island, and have to recreate their entire life on this abandoned piece of land, in the middle of the Arabian Sea. The two characters, other than being displaced, have lost their memory and have to find out what they remember, what they have completely forgotten and what they need to remember to remember here on. Only trouble is that every now and then the storm comes again, and they have to start again.
Dweepa (2016)
- Kannada
- 120 minutes
- /
- Abhishek Majumdar
Dweepa, is an original Bangla play, written by Abhishek Majumdar, premiering in Kannada at the Ranga Shankara Theatre Festival. The play is about two people who are blown away in a storm to an island, and have to recreate their entire life on this abandoned piece of land, in the middle of the Arabian Sea. The two characters, other than being displaced, have lost their memory and have to find out what they remember, what they have completely forgotten and what they need to remember to remember here on. Only trouble is that every now and then the storm comes again, and they have to start again.
Beediyolagondu Maneya Madi (2016)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- Champra Deshpande | S. Surendranath
- Mohit Takalkar
‘Beediyolagondu Maneya Maadi’ satirically critiques religious festivals and challenges traditional beliefs in a Pune middle-class, Maharashtrian-Brahmin neighborhood during Ganesh Chaturthi. Shreepad and Sukanya agree to skip celebrating the festival every other year, but their plans are disrupted when Shreepad’s aunt and family unexpectedly arrive, eager to witness the procession. The play humorously unfolds as Shreepad tries to maintain his stance against their intrusion while grappling with philosophical reflections and familial pressures. It offers a keen portrayal of middle-class Kannada household dynamics amidst the tensions of conflicting ideologies.
Beediyolagondu Maneya Madi (2016)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- Champra Deshpande | S. Surendranath
- Mohit Takalkar
‘Beediyolagondu Maneya Maadi’ satirically critiques religious festivals and challenges traditional beliefs in a Pune middle-class, Maharashtrian-Brahmin neighborhood during Ganesh Chaturthi. Shreepad and Sukanya agree to skip celebrating the festival every other year, but their plans are disrupted when Shreepad’s aunt and family unexpectedly arrive, eager to witness the procession. The play humorously unfolds as Shreepad tries to maintain his stance against their intrusion while grappling with philosophical reflections and familial pressures. It offers a keen portrayal of middle-class Kannada household dynamics amidst the tensions of conflicting ideologies.
86000 Sekendugalu (2017)
- Kannada
- 60 minutes
- Martin Baltscheit / S. Surendranath
- Aditee Biswas
“Life is never as beautiful as on the first day”. This play celebrates the friendship between a pig, a fox, and a mayfly, highlighting the profound lesson on the importance of time. It underscores that living fully in each moment matters more than the length of one’s life. When a mayfly’s fleeting existence inspires reflection in a fox and wild boar, their lives are transformed. Join these characters on a poignant journey through life’s mysteries, where a single day can encapsulate a rich and meaningful existence.
Produced by Ranga Shankara, in association with Goethe Institut/Max-Mueller Bhavan, Bangalore.
86000 Sekendugalu (2017)
- Kannada
- 60 minutes
- Martin Baltscheit / S. Surendranath
- Aditee Biswas
“Life is never as beautiful as on the first day”. This play celebrates the friendship between a pig, a fox, and a mayfly, highlighting the profound lesson on the importance of time. It underscores that living fully in each moment matters more than the length of one’s life. When a mayfly’s fleeting existence inspires reflection in a fox and wild boar, their lives are transformed. Join these characters on a poignant journey through life’s mysteries, where a single day can encapsulate a rich and meaningful existence.
Produced by Ranga Shankara, in association with Goethe Institut/Max-Mueller Bhavan, Bangalore.
Fish, Tree, and Moon (2017)
- English
- 40 minutes
- /
- Yosup Bae
An odd group of creatures, an old fish, a spirited girl, an eager boy, an ascetic and a bare tree, make a long journey to the top of mount Kailash so they can have their wishes granted. But here, on the top of this mountain, the universe has other plans for them. What do they find and how do they find it? Fish Tree Moon is as much about magic and destiny as it is about the heart of pursuit. Masks, puppets, shadow puppets, live music in a smattering of Kannada, Hindi and English bring this motley crew to life as they take on a voyage of friendship, fear, fascination and revelations.
Fish, Tree, and Moon (2017)
- English
- 40 minutes
- /
- Yosup Bae
An odd group of creatures, an old fish, a spirited girl, an eager boy, an ascetic and a bare tree, make a long journey to the top of mount Kailash so they can have their wishes granted. But here, on the top of this mountain, the universe has other plans for them. What do they find and how do they find it? Fish Tree Moon is as much about magic and destiny as it is about the heart of pursuit. Masks, puppets, shadow puppets, live music in a smattering of Kannada, Hindi and English bring this motley crew to life as they take on a voyage of friendship, fear, fascination and revelations.
Tsuinn Tapak!! (2018)
- : Non-verbal
- 60 minutes
- Anish Victor
The onomatopoeic title captures the essence of the performance – which is to present children with quick moments that are joyful and thoughtful. Through a blend of sound, rhythm, music, movement, and blasts of ‘magic’, the performance will invite children to engage with, and learn from, a series of experiences – ranging from the manic to the calm, from din to silence, from the ordinary to the extraordinary.
Tsuinn Tapak!! (2018)
- : Non-verbal
- 60 minutes
- Anish Victor
The onomatopoeic title captures the essence of the performance – which is to present children with quick moments that are joyful and thoughtful. Through a blend of sound, rhythm, music, movement, and blasts of ‘magic’, the performance will invite children to engage with, and learn from, a series of experiences – ranging from the manic to the calm, from din to silence, from the ordinary to the extraordinary.
Ahalya B D (2019)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- Henirk Ibsen | S. Surendranath
- S. Surendranath
Ahalya B D focuses on the frustrated existence of its title character, exploring core issues of power, control, and social expectation. Bored to death and restricted by her middle-class environment, Ahalya, (daughter of Brigadier late Balakrishna Devadiga, hence, Ahalya B D) plays out her own fantasies and psychological games with those nearest to her to an ultimately costly end.
Ahalya B D (2019)
- Kannada
- 90 minutes
- Henirk Ibsen | S. Surendranath
- S. Surendranath
Ahalya B D focuses on the frustrated existence of its title character, exploring core issues of power, control, and social expectation. Bored to death and restricted by her middle-class environment, Ahalya, (daughter of Brigadier late Balakrishna Devadiga, hence, Ahalya B D) plays out her own fantasies and psychological games with those nearest to her to an ultimately costly end.
Golla (2021)
- Non-verbal
- 20 minutes
- Sananda Mukhopadhyaya
In the beginning there was a ball of dough but soon enough other forms emerged and formed a world. Golla, is a live material theatre performance created for children between ages 2 – 3.5 years. The play is told through movement, music, and actions. This is a wordless performance.
This piece was done online, during the COVID-19 pandemic, as we adapted the AHA! festival for the online medium.
Golla (2021)
- Non-verbal
- 20 minutes
- Sananda Mukhopadhyaya
In the beginning there was a ball of dough but soon enough other forms emerged and formed a world. Golla, is a live material theatre performance created for children between ages 2 – 3.5 years. The play is told through movement, music, and actions. This is a wordless performance.
This piece was done online, during the COVID-19 pandemic, as we adapted the AHA! festival for the online medium.
