Theatre is a fascinating art form that is powerful enough to change people’s hearts. My knowledge of various Indian art forms like Kalaripayattu, Kathak, and Bharatanatyam has just dialed up my passion for it. My body becomes a vessel to convey the story and I think that adds soul ‘ruh’ to the art form. Theatre is a very expansive art form and I have always compelled myself to explore the depths of it which is why most of my work has been experimental like the psycho-physical theatre, visual theatre, and installation performances I have done before. I and my unit are currently in the process of putting up a play, which is a version of Macbeth.

I have a postgraduate degree in psychology and it has really come in handy when it comes to the domain of theatre. If you look into it, every element in theatre can be psychologically explained. Obviously, a character needs to be psychologically analyzed before delving into it. But even the rest of the elements like the lighting (which holds huge importance in a play), the position of the props, and the costumes (the colors and the vibrancy of it) can be of great psychological importance. For example, you have to be specific about the type of lighting you use since each light sets a mood for the setting and that can certainly make or break. My degree in psychology has really helped me ease myself into the theatre without much trouble.

Besides, if you think about it, theatre can really help you develop as a person. There is so much of yourself that you learn throughout the process. Elements of yourself that you never knew were part of you surface, as you become a part of this beautiful world. This is why I ardently promote theatre sessions for young people because it really does help them bring themselves closer to their true selves.

I am aware of how powerful an art form theatre can be. It has the power to influence people through its stories.

(To be continued)