This contemporary theatre production is a broad thematic adaptation of "Chandrahari," a
seminal Tamil play by renowned playwright Pammal Sambandham. Originally performed by Sugunavilasa Sabha in the 1940s, this multilingual reinterpretation explores the essence of duplicity in modern society. While the original play presented Chandrahari as an inverse of the truth-bound Harichandra from Puranic literature, this adaptation expands that character
inversion into a broader examination of institutional and personal hypocrisy.
Through intensive devised theatre processes, including life studies, critical discourse, and exploration of contemporary realities, the production transforms a classical character study
into a mirror reflecting current sociopolitical dynamics. The narrative explores how systemic structures normalize duplicity and how individuals navigate between authentic and performed selves in modern life.
The production emerges from rigorous ensemble work combining physical theatre, actor training, and collaborative creation methods. Performers embody multiple characters through
precise physical transformations, creating a fluid theatrical language that blends movement, gesture, and action. The performance style integrates choreographed sequences with satirical commentary, using rhythm and stylized movement to craft a sharp critique of contemporary social behaviors.
Breaking from traditional theatrical conventions, this production creates an immersive experience that challenges the passive role of spectatorship. By exploring the space between
truth and pretense, performer and audience, the work invites collective reflection on the nature of authenticity in an increasingly performative world.
Event Venue
Alliance Francaise of Madras: Chennai, Auditorium Edouard Michelin, 24, Nungambakkam College Road, Opposite Good Shepherd School, Subba Road Avenue, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600034, India
INR 300
