Chavittu

Somewhere in the Indian state of Kerala, a theatre company prepares for its performance during festivities. They arrive early, rehearse their piece, and put the finishing touches to the scenery. This alternates with atmospheric scenes of men rehearsing, singing, and perfecting choreographies at a remote location in nature. In the meantime, the theatre slowly fills with other acts, family, and organisers who sometimes interfere with the theatre group. When evening has come at last, various acts are performed and speeches are given before the group can finally stand in the spotlights.

This hybrid of documentary and dramatisation not only reveals the theatre makers’ creative process, but also provides a subtle look at a complex society in which caste still plays a role and some art forms are vulnerable.

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Available on Festival Scope Pro from 26 January 9:00 CET to 14 February 9:00 CET