Synopsis:

Presented as the first part of a trilogy, dance-theatre production Marabu – The First Ripple traces the passage and legacy of the Indian community in the Southeast Asian region.

The historic fiction revolves around the protagonist—a peasant—and his journey through the Chola invasion, that eventually leads to the construction of the Bhujanga Valley temples.

Created specially for Kalaa Utsavam 2019, the collaborative piece sees veteran artist and Cultural Medallion recipient Santha Bhaskar teaming up with co-choreographer Ajith Bhaskar and theatre director G Selva. "The story of our ancestors and their culture, and where we came from are the inspirations behind Marabu," says Bhaskar. This co-production with Esplanade – Theatres on the Bay brings to life certain pages in the book of time that capture pertinent moments of the Singapore Indian community and their shared history with other communities.

Marabu – The First Ripple features performers from Bhaskar's Arts Academy, Suvarna Fine Arts (Malaysia), Avant Theatre and Gamelan Singamurti.

Concept & Choreography: Santha Bhaskar
Co-Choreography: Ajith Bhaskar
Theatre Direction: G Selva
Music Composition: Dr Rajkumar Bharathi