Mandala Theatre to host documentary workshop on disappeared citizens in Bardiya

Mandala Theatre Nepal is set to host a two-week residential documentary theatre workshop in Bardiya, focusing on the experiences of individuals who vanished during the country's armed conflict. The initiative aims to bring to light the stories, memories, and histories of these disappeared citizens.

Scheduled from September 27 to October 8, the workshop will gather 20 participants: six from Kathmandu and fourteen from Bardiya. Applications are open to theatre practitioners, civic activists, family members of the disappeared, and members of affected communities. The Disappeared Citizens’ Memorial Park in Bardiya is collaborating on the project, providing support through its preserved records, memorabilia, and oral testimonies.

Participants will receive training in translating real-life events into theatrical performances, understanding the ethical considerations of using personal narratives, and the collaborative process of theatre-making. The workshop will be led by theatre director Chesong Kim, who holds an MFA from Columbia University.

Upon completion, participants will present their theatrical productions at the Disappeared Citizens’ Memorial Park. A short documentary capturing the entire workshop and theatre-making process will also be produced. Full travel and accommodation support will be provided for participants traveling from Kathmandu, with lodging and free meals offered to all attendees.