October 2021

My Debut as Writer and Director: The Journey with Sue & Sita

Hi everyone! As the Artistic Director of Ri Ri’s Dance Academy, I’ve always believed in the power of storytelling through the arts , whether that be writing, dance or theatre. But my recent venture into co-writing and directing the children’s theatre production Sue & Sita has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career!

Crafting Sue & Sita

As with all of my innovative creations and the traditional fusion of two cultural worlds together; Indian and Western, Sue & Sita started as an idea to combine contemporary storytelling with the richness of traditional Indian tales. I wanted to create a show that would not only entertain but also resonate deeply with audiences of all ages. The production is heavily inspired by Indian mythology and culture, which has always been a significant part of my life and work. Working alongside the incredibly talented poet and playwright Louise Wallwein MBE, we crafted a narrative that weaves together the modern journey of Sue with the timeless story of Sita from the Ramayan.

Behind the Scenes

Directing this production has been a whirlwind of creativity and collaboration. From watching the puppetry and shadow theatre elements come to fruition to choreographing interactive Bollywood dance sequences, every step has been a labour of love. The shadow theatre adds a mesmerising and mystical quality to the storytelling, enhancing the magical atmosphere of the show.

One of the standout elements has been the puppet of the monkey god Hanuman. Audiences, especially children, have been captivated by Hanuman’s presence on stage. The intricate design and lively performance of the puppet have brought an additional layer of magic to the show.

We’ve also integrated interactive Bollywood dance segments, inviting the audience to participate and experience the joy of dance. These segments not only entertain but also create a sense of community and shared celebration, reminiscent of the vibrant festivals of India.

Celebrating Indian Festivals

The show draws inspiration from various Indian festivals, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of India. Elements from festivals like Makar Sankranti, known as the Kite Festival, are woven into the narrative, creating a tapestry of traditions that highlight the beauty and diversity of Indian culture.

In the Spotlight

The response to Sue & Sita has been positively overwhelming. I’ve had the opportunity to share our journey on platforms like BBC Radio Manchester and Lancashire, where I discussed the inspiration behind the show and the creative process. Local media, including the Tameside Correspondent and the Manchester Evening News (MEN) have praised the production for its innovative approach and engaging storytelling.

Looking Forward

Seeing the smiles, hearing the laughter of our young audiences and watching them dance during the production has been the highlight of this journey. Sue & Sita has reaffirmed my belief in the transformative power of theatre. As I look ahead, I am excited to continue exploring new ways to blend different art forms and create meaningful, magical experiences for our audiences.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Your support and enthusiasm mean the world to us. Here’s to many more adventures in the world of children’s theatre!

Lots of love,