This January, Bengaluru's cultural scene is set for a thrilling transformation as a unique theatrical production promises to blur the lines between audience and performer. 'Blood Moon Over Bengaluru,' an immersive theatre experience, will run from January 16 to 18 at Sabha BLR in Shivajinagar, as a highlight of the BLR Hubba festival. Staged within the atmospheric confines of a 160-year-old heritage building, the show weaves together gothic horror, local folklore, and themes of queer resistance into a participatory narrative.
You Are The Story: The Power of Immersive Theatre
The core philosophy of the production is active audience involvement. Sonia Parekh, the lead and creative producer at Immerse, explains that this format dismantles the traditional barrier between the stage and the seats. Instead of passively watching a story unfold, attendees become integral characters within it. Their sensory and emotional engagement drives the plot forward.
The collective decisions made by the audience during each performance directly influence the outcome, creating a dynamic and morally complex experience. This interactive element forces participants to confront their own values, particularly concerning gender, identity, and societal power structures. Parekh emphasizes that this deep level of engagement fosters a stronger sense of empathy, mirroring real-life interactions and dilemmas.
Reimagining Myths: Gothic Horror Rooted in Karnataka's Soil
The narrative draws inspiration from 'Carmilla,' one of literature's earliest queer gothic horror novels. However, the creative team has meticulously transplanted its essence onto Indian ground. Extensive research went into adapting the story through the lens of Karnataka's rich tapestry of myths, folklore, and historical contexts.
Elements from local lore, particularly powerful entities like rakshasas and pishachis, are intricately woven into the fabric of the story. These beings are not portrayed as simple villains. Instead, they are presented as complex, layered figures embodying strength, willpower, and multifaceted identities. This approach challenges conventional notions of good and evil, making the narrative deeply compelling.
Questioning Power Through Folklore and Modern Lenses
Sonia Parekh highlights the subversive potential inherent in traditional stories. She points out that a closer examination of myths, especially those featuring feminist deities and folklore, reveals a long history of questioning established power hierarchies. By reinterpreting these ancient tales through contemporary perspectives on gender identity and social politics, the production makes them resonate powerfully with modern audiences.
The setting itself—the historic Sabha BLR building—adds an authentic layer to the gothic ambiance, enhancing the immersive quality. For three nights in mid-January, Bengaluru will host a pioneering event where art, heritage, and social commentary collide, offering a theatre experience that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.
