Theatre is one of the diverse forms of resistance against inequality and justice. In the current global context, it is an effective tool of social change, says B. Ananthakrishnan, director of the 15th edition of the International Theatre Festival of Kerala (ITFoK).

“The performing resistance has gained more vibrancy than before. The movement strives to ascertain that we too are present in this political context with a note of dissent. It is in this context that ITFoK gets special focus. With the theme ‘Cultures of Resistance’, the festival emerged out of a political desire for a change with confidence and optimism,” he said. Theatre has been transformed as a venue to give voices to the unheard and advocate for the rights of the oppressed and the marginalised, he added.

Dynamic audience

As the festival provides a stage for theatre practitioners to display their talents, the performances have resonated with themes of resistance and political expression. Actors and directors from different countries have received mixed responses from the dynamic audience, reaffirming the festival’s role in preserving theatrical traditions and passing their significance to future generations.

The fifth day began at 11 a.m. with Bhoothangal, a play directed by Shajahan O.T., inspired by the film Appan. The production delved into the life of an ageing man unwilling to relinquish his grip on power. At 3 p.m., Hungarian play Circle Relation took the stage at the Thoppil Bhasi Black Box, presenting an artistic interpretation of planetary movements as metaphors for human existence. Later, at 7.30 p.m., Item, performed at the Actor Murali Theatre, critically examined societal expectations imposed on women, sparking thought-provoking discussions.

Panel discussion

Beyond theatre performances, the festival also served as a space for dialogue and artistic exchange. At Ramanilayam, a Meet-the-Artist session was held with the team behind the Russian play Poor Liza,their first-ever performance in India.Additionally, a panel discussion featuring writer and scholar Shyam Kumar, award-winning playwright Ruwanthie de Chickera, and theatre person John Bashford explored diverse cultural perspectives and narratives of resistance.