In this fairy-tale of nature, the forest is a realm of mystery with sweet-singing birds and beautiful flowers, inhabited by holy men and beasts. But it is the home too, of deadly monsters who owe allegiance to the terrible ten-headed demon king, who lives in his rich palace on the island of Lanka. This play shows the kidnapping of princess Sita by Ravana and her dramatic rescue by Rama and his loyal friend Hanuman, a monkey with supernatural powers.  

The performance evokes the rich atmosphere of India through an original interpretation of the traditional tale in which kings, queens, demons, Gods and jungle animals are brought to life in a colourful, changing theatre set through shadow theatre, puppetry and painted storycloths as used by the wandering storytellers of India.

Shadow theatre is part of the Indian cultural heritage and in this performance traditional designs combine with modern lighting techniques to create dramatic and mysterious effects.

A musician accompanies the action with Indian instruments.

 A workshop in shadow puppetry and music is available, based on techniques and themes from the performance. Participants make a shadow puppet, learn manipulation and improvise themes from the play on the shadow screen. The musician demonstrates the instruments and encourages exploration of different sounds and rhythms for the to accompany characters.

 An education pack on India and Puppetry is also available.

 The performance is for all ages over 6 years.

The performance lasts 1 hour.  Set up time is 2 hours, get out 45 mins.

Requirements:~ reasonable black-out, a power socket, a table.

Floor space is approximately 3 metres deep,  5 metres wide,  2.5 metres high.

“An excellent and intricate family show which combines a compelling narrative with  strong skilful puppetry.  The music provides a great sense of atmosphere.  All in all a stimulating and exciting production”

Shea Connolly.   Drama Officer for  Yorkshire & Humberside Arts.

  “The performance of Rama and Sita was utterly superb – one of the most enjoyable of the entire festival, as well as the best executed in all its wonderful and many aspects.” 

Mary Walker,    Festival Co-ordinator,  Moving Parts,      Festival of Puppetry and Animation,  Huddersfield.