Production Information

Mandala is a physical theatre production originally created by Beverly Yuen in 2007. After tours in Korea and Europe and several workshops, it was reimagined in a new production by Jacklyn Kuah in her new capacity as Artistic Director of In Source Theatre. Subtitled “Journey through a voyage of reflection on urban life as the Mandala develops”.

With performances by Eng Kai Er, Sirfan S Sulaimi, Sonia Kwek, Shana Yap and Bernice Lee Yixun, under the direction of Jacklyn Kuah and co-director/vocal accompanist, Beverly Yuen, the work developed with choreographic advise from Bernice Lee Yixun. It featured original compositions by musician and sound designer, Chong Li-Chuan, lighting by Hay Teow Kwang and costume designs by Yvette Ng.

‘Mandala’, from the Sanskrit word for ‘circle’, is a spiritual and ritual symbol in Hinduism and Buddhism, representing the Universe. In various spiritual traditions, mandalas may be used as a spiritual guidance tool, for establishing a sacred space, and as an aid to meditation and trance induction.

Founded in September 2001, ln Source Theatre aims to develop and put in practice aesthetic principles and philosophy of humanism through physical theatre. The company believes in the full involvement of the actors in order to construct theatre as an interlude during which both performers and guests can strive for spiritual refreshment – whilst also raising aesthetic appreciation to higher levels.

Using physical and vocal training from the traditions of Grotowski, In Source Theatre strives to create lyrical works that elaborate and refine understanding of the complex combination of philosophical, sensual and psychological elements. With an emphasis on simple elegance and accessibility, In Source Theatre hopes to create timeless works that continue to build on elements of indigenous Asian performing art.

Website: insourcetheatre.com Facebook: facebook.com/lnSourceTheatre

(Synopsis and Theme)
Mandala portrays the different stages of life through which a typical urban dweller may go. The children grow into adults as the rice mandala grows. From innocent children who enjoy the exploration of their movements and surroundings, they have grown to become adults who compete and fight for money, fame and status. They also start to desire: people, things and events in their lives.

These adults are so trapped in the urban life that they are overwhelmed by the stressful environment. At one point, they seek silence within and begin to reflect. They go through a contemplation process and decide to treat life differently and live life anew.

CAST
Performer ....... Eng Kai Er
Performer ....... Sonia Kwek
Performer ....... Bernice Lee Yixun
Performer ....... Sirfan S Sulaimi
Performer ....... Shana Yap

PRODUCTION
Artistic Director ............................. Jacklyn Kuah
Co-director/ Vocal accompanist .... Beverly Yuen
Choreographer Advisor ................. Bernice Lee Yixun
Musician/ Sonic Designer ............. Chong Li-Chuan
Lighting Designer .......................... Hay Teow Kwang
Costume Designer ........................ Yvette Ng
Costume Designer Assistant ......... (Unidentified)
Production Manager ...................... Jacklyn Kuah
Stage Management ....................... Jodi Thiele, Nigel Fernandez (Funplay Workshop)
Lighting Engineer .......................... Huang Xiangbin
Lighting Programmer/ Technician.. Pek Limin
Lighting Technician/ Crew ............. Sim Ming Hua
Dress-maker ................................. Fanny
Stage Crew ................................... Sharul Baggio Bin Mohamed Roslan

MARKETING & ADMINISTRATION
Branding & Communications Advisor ........ Beverly Yuen
Marketing Manager ................................... Elizabeth Gan
Marketing Associate .................................. Sonia Kwek
Administrative Manager ............................. Chan Yi Wen
Administrative Assistant/ Archival Officer... Lim Let Bee
Graphic Designer ...................................... John Tan
Programme Editor ..................................... Jaswinder Kaur Gill