Synopsis
One day, in the bustling Schönefeld Airport in Germany, Shoko meets Yura, a young Russian man, by chance. Yura has traveled to Berlin to reunite with his girlfriend, but their meeting does not go as planned. Struggling with personal challenges and harboring a deep secret, Yura finds solace in sharing his favorite Russian story, Master and Margarita, with Shoko.
Through a series of short stories that blend reality with fantasy, spirituality with secularism, and music with dance, the performance explores universal themes of love, freedom, and the human condition. As Shoko and Yura’s friendship deepens, the boundaries between their worlds dissolve, revealing a shared space where cultural and personal differences no longer matter.
ABOUT THE DIRECTOR
Shoko Ito is a multidisciplinary artist, performer, and director known for her innovative approach to storytelling and movement. With a background in dance, theater, and choreography, Shoko’s work often explores themes of identity, cultural exchange, and the human experience.
Shoko’s unique ability to blend physicality with narrative has earned her acclaim on international stages, with critics praising her “boundless charm” and “energetic talent.”
Director’s Note
“You will remember this day, the day with the perfect blue sky…”
In Master Shoko and Margarita, I wanted to explore the idea that we all inhabit the same shared space, regardless of our individual doors. One door may belong to a Nepali man, another to a Japanese woman, and yet another to our Nepali friends—but when we open these doors, we find ourselves in the same room, sharing the same world.
This performance is a meditation on the small yet profound moments that connect us as human beings. Through the story of Yura and his love for Master and Margarita, we delve into themes of freedom, love, and the search for meaning in a fragmented world. The blending of reality and fantasy, music and dance, reflects the complexity of our shared human experience.
About the Group
Founded in 1986, Borderless Art ITO-GUMI is a boundary-pushing theatre group founded by Shoko Ito, a visionary artist and director known for her innovative approach to performance art. Based in Saitama, Japan, with international connections, ITO-GUMI operates under the ethos of "Borderless Art," creating works that transcend cultural and artistic boundaries. The group is renowned for its experimental and interdisciplinary productions, blending traditional Japanese theatre with contemporary global influences.
It is a comprehensive theater company combining Japanese theater, painting, video, Japanese musical instruments, and dance.
CAST AND CREW
Onstage:
Shoko Ito
Offstage:
Choreography: Kei Takei
Technical in-charge: David Tenga
CONTACT DETAILS:
+49(0)176-72581989(EU)
+81(0)70 6578 5056(Japan)
tougetsuen@gmail.com (ITO-GUMI)
3131 Nishiasuma, Nishi-ku, Saitama,
Saitama, Japan 331-0061
www.shokoart.com
Synopsis:
Muna-Madan tells the tragic story of Madan, a young man who leaves his beloved wife, Muna, to seek wealth in Lhasa. On his journey, he falls gravely ill and is abandoned by his companions, only to be rescued by a kind native. After recovering, he returns home, only to find that Muna has died from grief, believing false news of his death. His pursuit of wealth ends in heartbreak, reinforcing the message that love is life’s greatest treasure. Based on Laxmi Prasad Devkota’s epic poem, the play beautifully portrays love, sacrifice, and the fleeting nature of material wealth.
About the Team Leader:
Pariwartan, CEO of Pokhara Theatre, has been instrumental in establishment and growth of regular theatre going culture in Pokhara. Under his leadership, Pokhara Theatre has become a hub for artistic expression, successfully hosting regular play productions and other major events. A participant of Playmaking Workshop organized by Mandala Theatre-Nepal, he also founded Gandharva Theatre in Pokhara, and running it successfully together with his fellow artists. With over a decade of experience in theatre, Pariwartan has directed, acted in, and co-produced numerous plays while conducting acting workshops. His visionary leadership continues to shape and elevate the theatre scene in Pokhara and beyond.
Director's Note:
Muna Madan is a timeless masterpiece that carries the essence of Nepali society's reality, and its relevance has remained unchanged from the time of Devkota until today. Although times have changed, the search for dreams, the responsibility towards family, the pain of exile, and the sacrifice of love are still alive in our society. In this play, I have attempted to bridge the gap between the time of Devkota and the present society. Madan’s struggle is not just economic but also a constraint imposed by social structures. Muna is not just a waiting wife but a symbol of strong love. The character of the native stranger still carries the same humanitarian message.
About the Group:
The establishment of Pokhara Theatre was aimed at making the city of Pokhara culturally vibrant and presenting it as a platform for art and culture through theatrical activities. Since the 2nd of Falgun, 2074 B.S., Pokhara Theatre has been operating Gandharva Theatre in Pokhara-4, Gaighatpatan, which is the only theatre in Gandaki Province. Through the efforts of theatre enthusiasts and artists, it has made the decentralization of theatre possible, contributing to the prosperity of theatre outside the federal capital.
ON STAGE
Pariwartan
Kristi Gurung
Pramila Tulachan
Dhanikaji Shrestha
Rameshbabu Timalsina
Prakash Regmi
Ranju Dahal
Utsarg Subedi
Dil Bahadur Thapa
Vishnu Khadka Karki
Bidisha Nyaupane
Arjun Sharma
Bikas Phagami Magar
Binitna Bayalkoti
Rahul Shrestha
Shreekrishna Bhandari, Bidisha Nyaupane, Pratik Ghimire, Bibek Ojha
Abhishek Bhusal
Aavira Adhikari
Bidisha Nyaupane, Shreekrishna Bhandari, Binita Bayalkoti, Utsarg Subedi, Prakash Regmi Hamal
Dil Bahadur Thapa, Rameshbabu Timalsina, Dhanikaji Shrestha
Vikas Phagami Magar
OFF STAGE
Kitchen Manager: Apsara Bayalkoti
Props : Amrit Pariyar, Vikas Adhikari, Vikas Phagami Magar, Prakash Regmi Hamal
Stage Construction: Dil Bahadur Thapa, Arjun Sharma, Rahul Shrestha, Shreekrishna Bhandari
Costume : Bidisha Nyaupane, Pramila Tulachan, Bishnu Khadka Karki
Light Design: Rameshbabu Timalsina
Light Management: Utsarg Subedi, Susan Poudel, Milan Shrestha
Lighting Operation: Susan Poudel
Sound Operation: Bikash Adhikari
Music Arragement : Devindra Dhakal Vivek
Sound/Word Arragement: Milan Giri
Recording Engineer: Kishor Subedi
Bansuri/Tungna/Sarangi: Arjav Poudel
Vocals: Prashanti Shrestha, Sameer Pun, Abhishek Bhushal, Pramila Gurung, Richa Subedi
Box Office: Ranju Dahal
Market Representative: Nishan Subedi
Artist Manager: Dhanikaji Shrestha
Epic Poet: Laxmi Prasad Devkota
Concept/Direction: Pariwartan
Special Thanks: Sunil Ulek, Tashi Cheten, Namaste Recording Studio, Music Training Center, Vindhyavasini, Nyinje Shankar and the entire Ramghat Gumba Family, Khem Lama, Rom Tamang, Nirmal Rai, Chandra Dong, Indira Gurung, Subi Shah, Tina Gurung, Himalayan Buddhist Academy.
Contact Details:
pokharatheatre@gmail.com, 061-578468
Synopsis:
Bimbaka Bhariyaharu -a Century of Turmoil is an anthology performance that brings to life three poems by three poets from different eras of Nepal. Using physio-metaphorical enactments, the play explores the nation's socio-political struggles over the past century. The selected poems reflect Nepal’s turbulent journey from the pre-democratic Rana regime to the Panchayat system and, finally, to the Federal Republic of Nepal.
The performance opens with “Aamako Sapana” (The Mother’s Dream) by Gopal Prasad Rimal, set during the oppressive Rana regime. Here, a group of pregnant mothers dream of democracy, yearning for light in a time of darkness, while their children question whether these dreams will ever materialize. The second act, based on “Haami” (Us) by Bhupi Sherchan, portrays the chaotic Panchayat era, where democracy exists in name, but the people are trapped in a political crisis, forced to ask whether they are humans or mere pawns of power. The final act, drawing from “Bimaa” (Insurance) by Raju Syangtan focuses on the present day, where freedom of expression is legally granted but rarely exercised in practice. Despite a century of turmoil, wars, and revolutions, the nation’s fundamental issues remain unresolved. However, the voices of the people continue to rise, and the dreams envisioned by poets live on.
About the Director
Anjan Pradeep is a young poet, playwright, and theatre director based in Chitwan, originally from Nawalparasi. With a background in Sanskrit literature, he graduated from Mandala Drama School as part of its first batch and has since been actively engaged in theatre performance and education within communities. He has written and directed several plays, including Wounds of War, Sirishko Ful, and Ek Chihan, using theatre as a medium for social reflection and change. In addition to his creative works, Anjan conducts workshops and performances based on applied theatre techniques such as Forum Theatre and Playback Theatre, fostering dialogue and empowerment through storytelling and performance.
Director’s Note:
Poems are the souls of time. That is why poets are the dreamers of society who paint the past, present as well as future on the canvass of language. This is our effort of diving into the whirlpool of a poet's dreams. Let’s dive into this ocean of chaos and explore together, riding on the boat of metaphors. All the things, the dreams and aspirations have already been said and painted by the poets, we’re mere porters carrying the colours trying to navigate life. These cargos of metaphors are full of sweat, blood and tears within. We’re in search of a destination to unload these cargos just like the nation trying to unload its burden of so-called never-ending tantras.
About the Group
Karmi Chautari is a dedicated theatre group based in Chitwan, passionately bringing stories to life on stage for the past ten years. With a mission to engage, educate, and inspire through drama, they have become a vital force in the local arts scene, Karmi Chautari has been empowering marginalized communities by giving them a stage and a voice.
Tarang Theatre Group preserves and promotes Nepal’s diverse heritage through theatre, art, literature, and film. Committed to fostering original art forms, it stages performances and offers free acting workshops, embracing the country’s multilingual and multicultural identity.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage:
Rahul Kumar Singh
Prabesh Pyakurel
Krishna Prasad Ghimire
Dev Kumar Shrestha
Sameera Sunar
Nishu IDO
Jaya Upadhyaya
Devika Bishwokarma
Kiran Dhakal
Rahul Rasaili
Off Stage:
Shailesh Giri
Suraj Shrestha
Aman Rayamajhi
Lekharam Sapkota
Aashma Rai
Contact Details:
Karmi Chautari and Taranga Theatre Group
Bharatpur, Chitwan
Phone : 9842017350, 9808692330
E-mail: karmichautari@gmail.com
Synopsis:
Based on a poem by Nawaraj Parajuli, the play School tries to present the current scenario of education system in Nepal. Composed with a positive satire in the play, it brings into light the consequences of a lack of time-contextual syllabus and subject matters that are relatable to the psychology of children, which in turn affects the all-round development of children along with their mental growth. The play tries to navigate through the diversity in our originality through the strengthening of our culture, literature, and technical education in order to improve the education system to make it more useful and make the lives of people a bit easier.
This play, based on the child psychology, has also tried to connect it to the different social aspects such as division of class, caste and their impact.
About the Director
Jeevan Baral is a Nepali theatre actor, director, and educator based in Pathari, Morang. After spending years with Shilpee Theatre in Kathmandu, he returned to his hometown to further his artistic journey. He has directed numerous plays, including Ani Deurali Runchha, Barbarik, Aanimaya, and Indramaya Aafu Matra Lekhapani Aaipugi. As an acting teacher, he has worked with various institutions, including Rastriya Nachghar. His significant contributions to school-based theatre initiatives in eastern Nepal have been highly impactful. In addition to theatre, he is also an accomplished film actor.
Bikash Budhathoki is a theatre art manager and cultural organizer known for his dedication to Nepal’s performing arts scene. As the founder of Let’s Entertainment Pvt. Ltd., he has led two seasons of a mobile theatre tour across eastern Nepal. His voluntary support for theatre events and organizations in the region has been widely appreciated. He established Srijanaghar in Belbari as a hub for creativity and is an active member of Belbari Pragya Pratisthan. Budhathoki has also organized numerous dance and theatre events in Kathmandu and other cities, contributing significantly to Nepal’s artistic landscape.
Directors' Note:
The long exposure to the theatrical activities and involvements has been the motivating source for this play. As we had long been working in the educational and social fields, the presence of the psycho-social essence and taking into consideration the poem “School” by Nawaraj Parajuli, we have tried to make a short theatre performance which can create discourse in the field of Nepali academia. With the hope that this play will make some positive impact, we are looking forward to your response to the play.
About the Group
Srijanaghar- Home for Creativity is an art hub in Belbari dedicated to fostering theatre, cinema, painting, music, and literature. Rooted in Belbari’s rich artistic history, it aims to revive the region’s declining theatre culture by organizing performances, festivals, discussions, and collaborations with national troupes. Since its establishment, Srijanaghar has hosted various programs, including play performances, art festivals, panel discussions, and film screenings, making it a vibrant space for artistic growth and exchange.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage:
Smriti Chamling Rai,
Sadikshya Pokharel,
Omprateek Chaudhary,
Sikum Limbu,
Sohan Limbu,
Bishnumaya Thathal,
Tanuja Dahal
Off stage:
Writer: Nawaraj Parajuli
Music: Anil Puri
Lights: Siyom Subedi
Costume: Prem Bista
Design and Direction: Jeevan Baral and Bikash Budhathoki
Contact Details:
Srijanaghar: A Home for Creativity
Belbari- 03, Morang
Phone : 9849009826
E-mail: letsentertainment@gmail.com
Synopsis:
An Awakening Journey of Yashodhara, Prince Siddhartha's Wife
Amid the bliss of motherhood, Yashodhara, Siddhartha's wife, immersed herself in the joy of creating a precious gift for her beloved. Anticipating the moment to share her creation and bask in Siddhartha’s love, she cherished her happiness. However, this serenity was shattered by the devastating news of Siddhartha’s unexpected departure from the royal palace and family. The shock of Siddhartha's abandonment tore apart the idyllic harmony of Yashodhara’s life, plunging her into a profound emotional and physical upheaval. Waves of grief, confusion, and transformation reshaped her being, leading her through a journey of anguish, reflection, and eventual resilience. This play captures Yashodhara’s evolution, tracing her path from despair to strength. By delving into the intricate layers of her psyche, it explores the pain of separation and the empowerment born from adversity. This emotional narrative will resonate deeply with the audience, evoking empathy and connection.
About the Director:
Ram Hari Dhakal, a theatre artist from Nepal now based in Norway, has been actively involved in theatre since 2005 as an actor, scenographer, and director. He holds a BA in Scenography from the Norwegian Theatre Academy in 2015 and an MA in Theatre with a specialization in Scenography from the Oslo National Academy of the Arts in 2019.
During his master’s studies, Dhakal explored sensory activities, which led to the creation of a unique art form within the theatre and performing arts called "Sensory Theatre - The Art of Self-Realization." This immersive and participatory form of theatre deeply engages spectators, allowing them to experience stories through their physical and mental sensations, sensory perceptions, personal backgrounds, interests, consciousness, and the surrounding social atmosphere.
Now established as a freelance artist in Norway, Dhakal continues to expand its theatre activities. His work fosters empathy and introspection, offering audiences a profound and transformative engagement with theatre and performance art.
Director's Note:
Childbirth is often described as one of the most intense pains, followed by incomparable joy—a privilege unique to women. While men can empathize, they cannot fully experience this duality. While holding my newborn, it reminded me of Yashodhara and Siddhartha; I wondered how Prince Siddhartha could leave his family during such a moment of happiness.
Prince Siddhartha embarked on a journey to achieve enlightenment, but Yashodhara attained enlightenment through self-realization, a transformative power that reshapes the self. Siddhartha's abandonment thrust Yashodhara into a whirlwind of emotions—anger, pain, frustration, vulnerability, and loneliness—that profoundly impacted her thoughts and actions. These intense emotions brought her to a critical "do-or-die" moment.
In such states of turmoil, knowledge alone can become harmful, but consciousness remains a guiding light. The ability to recognize a toxic moment and choose the right path is key. Yashodhara exemplified this, demonstrating the power of self-awareness to make transformative decisions. Whether through physical or mental journeys, without self-realization, the experience remains unfulfilled.
“If a fish is taken out of the water, it jumps and writhes in pain; if it remains in the water, it swims joyfully.”
About the Group:
Dhakal RH Creation is an art institution run by Ram Hari Dhakal. It produces and stages theatrical performances both locally in Norway and internationally. For detailed information, please click the link. https://ramharidhaka.com/
Cast and Crew
On Stage:
Deeya Maskey and Sarita Sah
Off Stage:
Sound: Dev Neupane
Lights: Umesh Tamang
Costumes: Sanjita Parajuli (Needle and Knots)
Stage Manager: Kedar Shrestha
Supported by: Art and Culture Norway, Nordic Culture Fund and Fond for Utøvende Kunstnere
Concept, Design and Direction: Ram Hari Dhakal
Contact Details:
Ram Hari Dhakal –
Email: ramharithetna@gmail.com Mobile: +47 93945156
What’s up: +47 93945156
Synopsis:
The play is a theatrical exploration of cultural tradition, myth and social reality. It is deeply rooted in the Maithili heritage of Nepal. The story unfolds in a village preparing for Sama-Chakeva, a festival that celebrates the bond between siblings. The villagers create clay figures of mythological characters which magically come to life and engage in conversations reflecting the deep cultural heritage and myths of the community. Amidst the festival's preparations, the play delves into the lives of real characters. Barkha’s story is particularly poignant. It highlights the themes of love, sacrifice and the societal pressure she faces, culminating in her tragic end. The interplay between the mythological elements and everyday struggles of the villagers offers a layered narrative that critiques societal norms while celebrating cultural traditions. Through its evocative storytelling, the play explores the enduring impact of myths and the complex social dynamics within the village.
About the Director:
Amjad Prawej is a seasoned theatre professional with extensive experience as an actor, playwright, and director. He has earned international recognition, including the Best Actor Award at the FICBUEU International Film Festival and the NYU Tisch Asia Craft Award.
Beyond performance, Amjad has built a dynamic career in training, integrating theatre methodologies across education, corporate, and non-profit sectors to drive social impact. His expertise in applied theatre makes him a valuable asset to any training program. Committed to mentorship, he continues to inspire both theatre and non-theatre talents through performance and applied theatre techniques.
Director's Note:
Welcome to the performance of 'Sam Chako Sam Chako Abiha Hey'. The play is a heartfelt exploration of cultural heritage, societal norms and the powerful myths that shape our collective consciousness. As the director, I have endeavored to bring to life a narrative that seamlessly blends the magical with the mundane, the mythological with the realistic, and the surreal with the everyday.
This production aims to transport you into a world where the extraordinary is ordinary, where myths walk among us and where every gesture and word carries the weight of ancient traditions. Through this play, we seek to highlight the enduring power of cultural stories and the profound impact of societal expectations on individual lives. I hope that you will find this journey as enriching and thought-provoking as we have found in bringing it to the stage. Thank you for joining us, enjoy the performance.
About the Group:
Loksanchar is a cultural organization based in Janakpurdham, Nepal. Founded in the year 2065 BS, It is dedicated to promoting Mithila culture through drama, film, literature and training programs. It conducts stage and street performances, focusing on various social issues. It has also produced numerous documentaries, short films and radio dramas. The organization also engages in publications; translating and publishing works in Maithili. Its major vision is to establish a cultural museum preserving Maithili heritage while using artistic mediums to challenge discrimination and social stigma.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage: (Ensemble Crew)
Priyanka Jha, Reena Rimal, Rupesh K. Mandal, Anjali Shah, Sudeep Patel, Januka Dahal and Pramod Yadav
Off Stage:
Backstage: Naresh Mishra
Sound: Mahendra Sahi
Lights: Nirmal Saud
Sets and Props: Hum BC
Costume: Nafisha Khatun
Playwright: Ramesh Ranjan
Design/Direction: Amjad Prawej
Contact Details:
Loksanchar, Janakpur
Email: loksanchar.np@gmail.com
Mobile: 9854024143/9800800595
Synopsis:
The play is a theatrical exploration of cultural tradition, myth and social reality. It is deeply rooted in the Maithili heritage of Nepal. The story unfolds in a village preparing for Sama-Chakeva, a festival that celebrates the bond between siblings. The villagers create clay figures of mythological characters which magically come to life and engage in conversations reflecting the deep cultural heritage and myths of the community. Amidst the festival's preparations, the play delves into the lives of real characters. Barkha’s story is particularly poignant. It highlights the themes of love, sacrifice and the societal pressure she faces, culminating in her tragic end. The interplay between the mythological elements and everyday struggles of the villagers offers a layered narrative that critiques societal norms while celebrating cultural traditions. Through its evocative storytelling, the play explores the enduring impact of myths and the complex social dynamics within the village.
About the Director:
Amjad Prawej is a seasoned theatre professional with extensive experience as an actor, playwright, and director. He has earned international recognition, including the Best Actor Award at the FICBUEU International Film Festival and the NYU Tisch Asia Craft Award.
Beyond performance, Amjad has built a dynamic career in training, integrating theatre methodologies across education, corporate, and non-profit sectors to drive social impact. His expertise in applied theatre makes him a valuable asset to any training program. Committed to mentorship, he continues to inspire both theatre and non-theatre talents through performance and applied theatre techniques.
Director's Note:
Welcome to the performance of 'Sam Chako Sam Chako Abiha Hey'. The play is a heartfelt exploration of cultural heritage, societal norms and the powerful myths that shape our collective consciousness. As the director, I have endeavored to bring to life a narrative that seamlessly blends the magical with the mundane, the mythological with the realistic, and the surreal with the everyday.
This production aims to transport you into a world where the extraordinary is ordinary, where myths walk among us and where every gesture and word carries the weight of ancient traditions. Through this play, we seek to highlight the enduring power of cultural stories and the profound impact of societal expectations on individual lives. I hope that you will find this journey as enriching and thought-provoking as we have found in bringing it to the stage. Thank you for joining us, enjoy the performance.
About the Group:
Loksanchar is a cultural organization based in Janakpurdham, Nepal. Founded in the year 2065 BS, It is dedicated to promoting Mithila culture through drama, film, literature and training programs. It conducts stage and street performances, focusing on various social issues. It has also produced numerous documentaries, short films and radio dramas. The organization also engages in publications; translating and publishing works in Maithili. Its major vision is to establish a cultural museum preserving Maithili heritage while using artistic mediums to challenge discrimination and social stigma.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage: (Ensemble Crew)
Priyanka Jha, Reena Rimal, Rupesh K. Mandal, Anjali Shah, Sudeep Patel, Januka Dahal and Pramod Yadav
Off Stage:
Backstage: Naresh Mishra
Sound: Mahendra Sahi
Lights: Nirmal Saud
Sets and Props: Hum BC
Costume: Nafisha Khatun
Playwright: Ramesh Ranjan
Design/Direction: Amjad Prawej
Contact Details:
Loksanchar, Janakpur
Email: loksanchar.np@gmail.com
Mobile: 9854024143/9800800595
Synopsis:
New Normal follows friends Aaravi, Minal, and Smriti as they navigate the past, present, and future after the unexpected arrival of people from the old world—Earth. Why have they come, and how will they adapt? When the trio meets Diya, they quickly realize that their world is about to change in ways they never imagined.
New Normal is an original play which has resulted from an exciting international collaboration between disabled artists in Nepal and Scotland. The play has been developed through 'Unwrap', a series of creative development workshops and weaves ideas and new writing from artists in both countries to create a truly collaborative new work of accessible theatre that explores how the tales we tell and the myths we build can define us and our societies. The play creatively embeds access provisions such as Nepali sign language, captioning and audio description.
About the Directors:
Morna is a disabled theatre-maker, facilitator, director, dramaturg and mentor- working across a multitude of theatre settings in Scotland and internationally since 2009. Morna is passionate about creating space for people who are currently under-represented within the arts to make the work they want to exist in the world.
Gunjan Dixit is a theatre practitioner, director, and educator specializing in applied theatre and socially engaged performance. A Chevening Scholar with a Master’s from the University of Leeds, she co-founded Phulbari Playback Theatre in Nepal. Her work fosters dialogue through artistic interventions, using theatre as a catalyst for social change.
Director's Note:
While we looked to the past and the present to explore the experience of disabled people in Scotland and Nepal, it was the future that became our focus as we started to explore what a more positive and equitable world would be like. This has led us to a unique place where we can bring together all our ideas and directly utilize new writing and personal stories from the group.
About the Group:
Birds of Paradise Theatre Company (BOP) is Scotland’s preeminent pioneering disability-led theatre company and a force for change. Diverse Patterns is a Nepal-based organization committed to advancing disability inclusion and digital accessibility through training, partnerships, and advocacy.
BOP and Diverse Patterns have partnered together on the project Unwrap, which has resulted in this new accessible production. Unwrap is an international collaboration that has brought together ten artists from Scotland and Nepal. These artists have collaborated remotely through online workshops that explored artistic practice, storytelling and creative access. Unwrap is an Unlimited International Open Award 2024 commissioned by the British Council.
Access
Performed in Nepali, with English and Nepali captions and integrated Nepali Sign Language and Audio Description.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage:
Off Stage:
Contact Details:
Birds of Paradise Theatre Company
Scotland, UK
Diverse Patterns,
Kathmandu, Nepal
Synopsis:
New Normal follows friends Aaravi, Minal, and Smriti as they navigate the past, present, and future after the unexpected arrival of people from the old world—Earth. Why have they come, and how will they adapt? When the trio meets Diya, they quickly realize that their world is about to change in ways they never imagined.
New Normal is an original play which has resulted from an exciting international collaboration between disabled artists in Nepal and Scotland. The play has been developed through 'Unwrap', a series of creative development workshops and weaves ideas and new writing from artists in both countries to create a truly collaborative new work of accessible theatre that explores how the tales we tell and the myths we build can define us and our societies. The play creatively embeds access provisions such as Nepali sign language, captioning and audio description.
About the Directors:
Morna is a disabled theatre-maker, facilitator, director, dramaturg and mentor- working across a multitude of theatre settings in Scotland and internationally since 2009. Morna is passionate about creating space for people who are currently under-represented within the arts to make the work they want to exist in the world.
Gunjan Dixit is a theatre practitioner, director, and educator specializing in applied theatre and socially engaged performance. A Chevening Scholar with a Master’s from the University of Leeds, she co-founded Phulbari Playback Theatre in Nepal. Her work fosters dialogue through artistic interventions, using theatre as a catalyst for social change.
Director's Note:
While we looked to the past and the present to explore the experience of disabled people in Scotland and Nepal, it was the future that became our focus as we started to explore what a more positive and equitable world would be like. This has led us to a unique place where we can bring together all our ideas and directly utilize new writing and personal stories from the group.
About the Group:
Birds of Paradise Theatre Company (BOP) is Scotland’s preeminent pioneering disability-led theatre company and a force for change. Diverse Patterns is a Nepal-based organization committed to advancing disability inclusion and digital accessibility through training, partnerships, and advocacy.
BOP and Diverse Patterns have partnered together on the project Unwrap, which has resulted in this new accessible production. Unwrap is an international collaboration that has brought together ten artists from Scotland and Nepal. These artists have collaborated remotely through online workshops that explored artistic practice, storytelling and creative access. Unwrap is an Unlimited International Open Award 2024 commissioned by the British Council.
Access
Performed in Nepali, with English and Nepali captions and integrated Nepali Sign Language and Audio Description.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage:
Off Stage:
Contact Details:
Birds of Paradise Theatre Company
Scotland, UK
Diverse Patterns,
Kathmandu, Nepal
Synopsis:
Jhoda, based on Ganesh Rasik’s novel Akashgangako Otmuni, explores the struggle for land ownership and political manipulation of indigenous communities in eastern Nepal. The story follows Rupama, who uncovers how political parties exploited former soldiers to transfer land to the Jhoda, only to entangle them in a relentless political battle. The play highlights how native inhabitants were reduced to squatters, how political self-interest fractured their unity, and the enduring fight for their rightful land. Through a powerful narrative, Jhoda sheds light on the indigenous perspective and their resilience against systemic dispossession.
About the Director:
Based in Chulachuli, Ilam, Chetan Aangthupo has been deeply engaged in theatre since his early years, acting in Nepali plays from grade 9. Committed to developing theatre in his village, he began writing and directing plays in 2065, later founding Chulachuli Rangamanch. Trained at Mandala Theatre Nepal, he directed Mangena at NITFest 2065 and most recently Jhoda. Beyond black box theatre, he has successfully organized outdoor theatre festivals, integrating indigenous traditions and environmental themes. Known for highlighting underrepresented cultural narratives, Aangthupo is a prominent theatrical figure in Nepal’s eastern villages.
Director's Note:
I wanted to create a production about the Dhimal community, an indigenous group recognized by some local governments as the first people of their region. However, due to limited resources, I shifted my focus to Jhoda—forested land granted by the government to emigrants. My search led me to Aakash Gangako Oatmuni by Ganesh Rasik, a novel that intertwined history, folklore, and Nepal’s land struggles.
My grandfather once told me how he lost his land due to legal complications, a story that mirrors the plight of Jhoda’s inhabitants. From 2026 to 2033 BS, they were displaced, labeled squatters despite holding land ownership documents. In 2028 BS, the army fired upon them in Morang, marking a dark chapter in Nepal’s land history.
With a dedicated team, Jhoda took shape despite financial constraints. Staged in Damak and Shilpee Theatre, it now reaches Nepal International Theatre Festival. This production is a tribute to Ganesh Rasik, Ek Theatre Nepal, my team, and all who have supported this journey in shedding light on Nepal’s land injustices.
About the Group:
Chulachuli Theatre, established in 2070 in Ilam, is a dynamic theatrical institution dedicated to social transformation through theatre. The group has produced numerous black box and street plays, addressing social, cultural, and research-based themes. With a distinct approach to theatre, it has built a strong identity locally and internationally. The group has been organizing the school theatre festival in natural sites promoting biodiversity and eco-friendly movements. Registered under Ilam’s District Administration Office, the institution continues to nurture artists and bring meaningful narratives to the stage, making a lasting impact on the theatrical landscape of Nepal.
Cast and Crew:
On Stage:
Off Stage:
Contact Details:
Chulachuli Theatre, Ilam
Email: chulachulitheatre@gmail.com
