A play on Swami Vivekananda
Oneness ”“ Voice Without Form ”“ a play on the life of Swami Vivekananda
Sydney Opera House Playhouse 17 and 18 September 2013
The story of one man’s search for enlightenment that changed the world”¦
On the 150th anniversary of Vivekananda’s birth comes an extraordinary play about his extraordinary life. The 19th century Indian reformer, leader and mystic introduced yoga, meditation and interfaith understanding to the West. He inspired major historical and cultural figures as diverse as Mahatma Gandhi, the Dalai Lama and The Beatles’ George Harrison with his teachings.
Guide to millions and – through his Order’s service to hospitals, schools and relief works ”“ a saviour to millions more, the Swami emerged as the worlds’ first “pop star” in late 19th century America after his speeches at the first World Parliament of Religions in Chicago. He’s still a major influence in India with the Government sponsoring many commemorative events this year.
“What we think we become.” – Vivekananda
Now Australia is joining the international celebrations with a new play that shows the common link between all religions and all faiths.
Alex Broun, Director of Oneness ”“ Voice Without Form
Written and directed by Alex Broun whose plays have had thousands of performances internationally (including translations into Hindi, Kannada, Punjabi, Spanish, Arabic and Mandarin), the spectacular performance features a cast of ten outstanding Australian actors, chosen from more than 200 applicants from around Australia.
Calcutta based actor Saheb Chatterjee as Swami Vivekananda
Palestinian actress Dana Dajani
Leading the cast are two true international stars: Saheb Chatterjee, Calcutta-based film and theatre actor and singer, who will play Vivekananda; and Dana Dajani, Dubai-based Palestinian actress, writer and poet.
Original music has been composed and will be played live by Australian early and world music icons, Kim Cunio and Heather Lee. Design and co-direction is by recent NIDA graduates Tobhiyah Feller and Felicity Nichol respectively, with movement consultant Adelina Larsen.
“This is the gist of all worship: to be pure and to do good to others.” – Vivekananda
Broun said the biggest challenge in developing the play was what to include and what to leave out from the influential teachings and eventful life of Swami Vivekananda. His influence is not only huge to the world’s 2.4 billion of Hindus (the fastest growing faith in Australia according to the latest census with 275,000 identifying currently here) but through the practice and philosophy of yoga, to many, many more. Accordingly the cast and crew features a wonderful multi-faith mix of Hindu, Muslim, Jewish and Christian artists.
The play is part of a wider celebration sponsored by the Sarada Vedanta Society of Sydney and will also include seminars, workshops and more performances of the play in Brisbane at Bemac.
Oneness ”“ Voice Without Form
Playhouse at Sydney Opera House
Tuesday 17 September 7pm and Wednesday 18 September 2pm and 7pm
Tickets $75 (matinee concession $45)
Bookings (02) 9250 7777 or online at www.sydneyoperahouse.com
For more information visit www.oneness.org.au
Short URL: https://indiandownunder.com.au/?p=2473