Reopening the iZulu Theatre for India’s celebration of their 75th anniversary of becoming a Republic. (Review by Verne Rowin Munsamy)
Brahama...Playfulness Leads to Peace.
On the eve of India's celebration of their 75th anniversary of becoming a Republic, Indian diaspora all around the globe have banded together to create community projects, feeding schemes, yoga camps dance dramas and theatre productions that highlight this occasion.
To join on the festivities, Vishwa Shakti and Sun Sibaya presented 26 JANUARY at the iZulu Theatre on March 5, 2022. The company of dancers and actors from Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center created a community-based dance drama that captured the essence of Art as the absolute being, and the absolute being is art!
The colours of the Indian flag drape the set while large screens assist in filling the space with images and videos of history and present that manifest themselves as backdrops to the action. The story celebrates the joys, spirituality, and essence of being Indian but also speaks of its brutal history, leading to freedom.
The young performers do well to depict the story of Radha and Krishna, ShivShakti the dance of creation, and even Gandhi's train travels in South Africa as well as numerous other well-known tales.
I was most taken by Daadima's character as she remained consistent throughout. The dance items were choreographed by several individuals within the company and showcased the emerging art and talent in Durban. I was honoured to be a part of this cultural event that created a nexus between Durban and the rest of the world where Indian diaspora were regaling their ancestry.
Well done to all those involved in reopening the IZulu Theatre to the public. - Verne Rowin Munsamy
For more information on the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Center, visit https://www.svccdurban.gov.in/
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