Navrattan: A Quest for the Lost Gems

Nutkhut

Family, Installation, Theatre

In Navrattan, the audience is taken on a journey encompassing shadow puppetry, interactive storytelling, Kathak dance and craft workshops.

Deducing a series of clues and collecting the missing gems of Emperor Akbar’s favourite pendant, the Navrattan, groups of children and adults are guided through 8 different ‘rooms’ within the Emperor’s palace.

In each area, they experience activities including story, dance, riddles and mechanical props. Each show culminating in a Kathak dance performance for the wider festival attendees. This promenade performance engages children; making them part of the story and through storytelling, the show is an educational introduction to the ancient arts and traditions of the Mughal era, bringing together people of different generations and backgrounds.

About Nutkhut

Run by co-Artistic Directors Simmy Gupta and Ajay Chhabra, Nutkhut have been producing quality outdoor work with high production value for over 10 years. In their work, they emphasise the aesthetic richness of culture through attention to detail and authentic use of materials.

Production Credits

Simmy Gupta and Ajay Chhabra (Cofounder/ Co-Artistic Director); Sian Thomas (Performance Director); Philippa Mannion (Project Coordinator).

Funding, commissioning and partner credits:

Commissioned by Without Walls and Stockton International Riverside Festival.