‘Jolene’ at Kausi Theatre

Kathmandu's Kausi Theatre is currently hosting 'Jolene,' a new theatrical production that delves into the darker aspects of love and devotion. Written by Buddhi Pokhrel and directed by Rishav, the play runs from July 24 to August 14.

The narrative centers on Mira, a housewife whose identity is deeply intertwined with her husband, Madhav. Her unwavering devotion shatters with the discovery of Madhav's affair with Jolene, unearthing a dangerous and hidden side to their seemingly ordinary life. Director Rishav, transitioning from filmmaking, experiments with a blend of melodrama, tragedy, musical theatre, and horror.

Rishav noted the unique experience of theatre compared to filmmaking, stating, "In a camera’s absence, the experience is new, but not so strange as the frames I visualise for a film used to ultimately become like that of a theatre." The play aims to expose the twisted logic behind a crime through exaggerated portrayals, glorification, vilification, and mockery of the characters' internal struggles, giving voice to suppressed emotions.

'Jolene' utilizes song and dance to explore these complex themes, offering a unique theatrical experience for audiences in Kathmandu.

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It is unconventional in many ways. In a camera’s absence, the experience is new, but not so strange as the frames I visualise for a film used to ultimately become like that of a theatre.