Theatre Workshop at Kochi Muziris Biennale 2022-2023 Kochi, India
Image courtesy : Kochi-Muziris Biennale
Deconstructing our Ritual Selves;
Theatre, Community, Inclusiveness
14-15-16-17 February 2023
ABC Art Room, Cabral Yard
This four-day intensive theatre workshop is designed to work on the theme of body deconstruction and on the notion of ritual. How can making art contribute to building social and cultural bridges between different individuals in a particular context (the Biennale in this case)? How can we work on the notion of community by creating a common language through theatre? Participants worked on a variety of artistic possibilities and explored the element of inclusiveness. The workshop ended with a public performance.
DAY 1
Morning: Warm-up exercises from toe to head / Exploring the workspace through games / Working with small groups on rituals: when the ordinary becomes extraordinary
Afternoon: Experiencing 4 Biennale installations at Aspinwall House / Nourishing our creativity / Collective attention / Physical and mental stamina / Preparing the body for the performance / Song
DAY 2
Morning: Warm-up from head to toe / Working in nature / Breathing / Diaphragm and Solar Plexus / Group rituals
Afternoon: Procession from Cabral Yard to Pepper House, singing / Experiencing Biennale installations / Rituals performed at Dutch Warehouse / Procession back to Cabral Yard, humming
DAY 3
Morning: Warm-up from toe to head / Sound tunnel inspired by the installation “Chorus” / Separating rice from lentils (inspired by the Marina Abramović Method)
Afternoon: Procession from Cabral Yard to Aspinwall House / Public Rituals and Sound Tunnel for the public / Experiencing the outdoor installations
DAY 4
Morning: Warm-up from head to toe / Preparation for the afternoon parade and performances / Preparation of board cards in both English and Malayalam
Afternoon: Parade and performances in different Biennale venues and at Vasco da Gama Square, in Kochi streets
Testimonial
“I had the chance and the privilege to attend the first day of Margherita’s workshop on deconstructing our ritual selves. For me, it was a revelation. Using embodied experiences to address deep social incongruences is simply genial. The more significant moment for me was the group exposure to art, which left me with a strong gut feeling of belonging but also of space to consider and appreciate diversity. Best of all was Margherita’s talent to create that space where you feel suddenly alive and eager to explore… the realms beyond rituals (selves)! Bravo!”
Olivier, neurologist, France
She embodied the true spirit of theatre performer by being inclusive and even encouraged audience members to join in on the action.”
Akhil Jose, comedian, Kochi
Sivaraj, cinema actor, Kochi