This show is written by Amani Mahmoud, and produced and directed by Kersherka Sivakumaran, and based on first hand experiences of a survivor of domestic violence in a traditional Indian family. The script has three parts, each about 15 minutes, which present the same family events from the perspective of a mother and her two children. The events are graphic, and their respondent requested they be “heard but not seen” in any portrayal.
Maithly Dhawan, as the stage narrator/reader, presents a lively but steady reading of the material. Maithly gave a lively, sustained and sincere recitation, often using gestural emphasis, that was entirely suited to the seriousness of her subject matter, and was clearly and well heard for its audience. It well explored the dark and sensitive nature of the domestic violence events it conveyed.
What is heard but not seen is all a matter of degree – unless you are presenting speech in darkness. I am not sure why the same script could not be memorised, and delivered even by more than one reader – there are enough direct and indirect segments for that to be done.
The show started out – an extended verbal introduction, in darkness, of the subject and rationale for performing. There was music by Indu Balachandran (Veena), Pirashanna Thevarajah (Percussionist) and Narthana Kanagasabai (violinist) at the start, between each part and at the end, of an original fulsome moving score in a traditional Indian style. This had been composed in intensity and style to suit what was being said – perhaps more selective use of individual instruments could have added to emotional effect.
Gayatri Krishnamurthy danced in transitions, and at the end spoke as part of the dance. This was most effective, and perhaps could have been used at the beginning for the introduction.
This show had high cultural and emotional goals, and my companion, like undoubtedly most of the audience, appreciated it exactly as presented. I hope the company can continue to present the piece to wider audiences, but if they do it might be good to consider additional theatrical methods that will further heighten both its narrative and theme.
Also the credits for the show are:
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Kersherka Sivakumaran – Producer and Director
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Amani Mahmoud – Writer
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Gayatri Krishnamurthy – Dancer
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Indu Balachandran – Veena Player
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Maithly Dhawan – Narrator
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Pirashanna Thevarajah – Percussionist
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Narthana Kanagasabai – Violinist
Production photography by Phil Erbacher
