Written and performed by Rani Moorthy and directed by Kimberley Sykes, Manchester based Rasa Productions new piece ‘Whose Sari Now?’ Is a journey of exploration and education, examining the intriguing role of the sari amongst its many wearers. The first in a trilogy of work inspired by the sari.
The word Sari comes from the Sanskrit meaning “strip of cloth”, throughout this production we see just how versatile one strip of cloth can be and how the stories of the wearers of this one garment vary so vastly. We meet an elderly woman who contemplates her relationship with the sari as she knows she nears the end of her life, a young mother giving birth in war torn Sri Lanka, bringing new life into a world of conflict, protecting her twin babies by wrapping them in her highly prized wedding sari, a transgender man reflecting on his girlfriend’s obsession with the sari expressing his views through rhythmic Tamil rap.
Seeing Rani Moorthy perform her own work is an absolute pleasure, her characterisation is outstanding, she puts her heart and soul into each character and you soon forget this is one woman on stage and truly believe in each and every personality, she draws out your empathy and compassion then follows it up with a giggle and a cheeky quip, she is a truly talented performer. Her passion for this piece takes us the audience on a fascinating journey, and puts us in the perspective of each of the wearers. From bold and beautiful to challenging and emotional, Whose Sari Now? is an excellent piece of theatre. Rani fully engages the audience, her addition of some light hearted audience involvement adds to the affection we feel for this piece and the more emotive scenes leave us wanting to hold her and tell her everything will be ok.
Whose Sari Now? Is very special piece of theatre which truly reflects what Rasa Productions stands for, it’s daring, powerful and hugely thought provoking.
