Adapting Wor(l)ds to the Stage: A Playwriting Conversation

Adapting Wor(l)ds to the Stage: A Playwriting Conversation

What does it take to reimagine a familiar story for a new generation? How do playwrights find their voice, develop their craft and bring new perspectives to the stage?

For the final event in the Bagri Foundation's Samaya Series this year, we welcome acclaimed Indian playwright Anupama Chandrasekhar for an evening exploring the creative possibilities and challenges of playwriting, moderated by broadcaster, presenter and journalist Bidisha.

This evening takes place just as The Jungle Book is set to open at the National Theatre, directed by Indhu Rubasingham. Reimagining Rudyard Kipling's beloved stories through a contemporary South Asian lens, the production transports audiences to the mangrove forests of the Sundarbans, exploring questions of belonging, identity and our relationship with the natural world.

Based in Chennai, Chandrasekhar has established an international career with plays including Free Outgoing and Disconnect, both of which premiered at London's Royal Court Theatre, and The Father and the Assassin at the National Theatre. Her work frequently explores the complexities of contemporary society, identity and power, bringing nuanced perspectives and compelling characters to the stage.

Drawing on her experiences writing across cultures and theatrical traditions, Chandrasekhar will reflect on her creative journey, from developing original works to adapting existing stories for new audiences. Together, she and Bidisha will explore the particular demands of writing for theatre, the relationship between language and performance, and the decisions that shape how a story moves from page to stage.

With the Samaya Series' commitment to creative exchange and professional development, the evening offers an opportunity for emerging writers, theatre practitioners and anyone curious about storytelling to gain insight into the craft of playwriting and the creative processes behind a major theatrical production.

The conversation will be followed by an audience Q&A.

With thanks to the National Theatre.

Image credit: National Theatre (c) Helen Maybanks.

The Bagri Foundation launches the Samaya Series 2026. As always, we take inspiration from the work we have been doing this past year with partners across the UK and Europe. With a focus on supporting emerging and mid-career talent, we explore the power of honing one’s craft and developing an artistic practice. We see art as an integral part of society throughout history traversing beyond geographies and believe it exposes the depths of humanity. But how does one find their voice, give direction to their work and define the spirit of their craft?

We present a series of creative development conversations and workshops. Delivered in collaboration with our partners and friends, we discuss the role of artistic support within the UK. What support mechanisms are in place to refine their practice? What does support for early career artists, producers, writers and musicians look like?

We invite our audience to explore these questions with us, to hear from those who deliver development workshops and those who have benefitted from artistic support methodologies across genres. Including theatre, live arts, dance, music and literature.

Event venue & nearby stays

Bagri Foundation, 25-27 Lorne Close, London, United Kingdom

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