Purushasukta: A Celebration of Body and Space

Director Joseph Johns short, largely nonverbal 55 minute piece seeks to explore its title hymn, the Purushasukta, a popular hymn from the Vedas that discusses the Supreme Being. The show opens with a short introduction in English, explaining that Purushasukta encompasses the cosmos of life and death.

The narration is illustrated onstage by stunning stunts from the actors, who engage in acrobatics on ropes and poles. The small cast of 3 was deeply impressive  each of these actors was so multifaceted, equally adept at emoting through theatrics, dance, and physically demanding stunts.

Credit for many of the plays strongest moments, the high points in energy and rhythm, goes to choreographer and actor Charan CS. One standout memory from the performance is the first time Charan CS and his co-actor Girish KR break into synchronized choreography, circling each other with such fluidity, such strength and grace, that as an audience we cannot help but share their joy.

Moving, steady chanting of the 18 mantras of the hymn set the score for this visually stunning exploration and celebration of body and space.