in a one-woman play podcast operaThe protagonist records episodes of his podcast as a way to preserve his memories – both painful and joyful. Through these monologues, she pieces herself together, meticulously recounting moments of passionate love, devastating loss, and long-forgotten experiences.

Presented by veteran theater artist Sajitha Madathil and directed by Emil Madhavi, podcast opera Follows a 60-year-old woman as she recalls episodes from her life. Written by Sajitha and Emil, the play combines the experiences of a woman entering the final stages of her life with a contemporary podcast format. Composed by Nazaruddin Valiyaveettil, it premiered in Kochi on 20 June and is currently touring Australia on the invitation of Malayali theater groups.

Sajitha Madathil during the staging of podcast opera
| Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

Sajita says the idea came from observing how her generation thinks about turning 60 compared to earlier ones.

She says, “A large section of Kerala’s population is approaching their 60s. When I was young, I used to think that people of this age were old and near the end of life. Today, many people see it as the second decade of thirties – an age when they are free to travel, seek new experiences and live with fewer responsibilities.”

“The main inspiration for the play came from our own experiences, our parents’ lives and the stories of the women around us,” says Sajita. “We also wanted to explore the tension between memory and memory loss.”

Emil, a former winner of the Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award, explains that a memory box serves as a recurring motif throughout the play. The air trapped inside symbolizes life and memory, while the air slowly escaping represents the hero’s fading memories.

Emile Madhavi Photo Credit: Special Arrangement

He says, “I was thinking of creating a project focused on sound after completing my PhD in sound dramaturgy. That’s how the idea of ​​the protagonist recording the podcast came about.” “The play unfolds episodically rather than following a traditional three-act structure. Each episode has its own soundscape, reflecting a different emotional state.”

He further said, striking the right balance between storytelling and drama was one of the biggest challenges of the production. “We wanted to make the podcast format engaging while maintaining the essence of live theatre.”

The music is composed by Varkey, with sound design by Shaiju M. The drama also features a rap track by Indulekha Warrier.

For Emil, another challenge was to overcome the audience’s preconceived image of Sajitha.

He says, “People associate her with wearing glasses and a big bindi. In the opening scene they are removed and she explains how they became a part of her life. We wanted to show how a small thing like a bindi can shape a woman’s identity.”

Although it has been staged only twice so far, Sajitha says the response has been very touching.

“Many women came up to us afterwards and said they could relate to it. Women in their 40s told us it gave them a glimpse of what life looks like at 60. Many men said the play reminded them of their mothers.”

The production will return to Kerala in August after the team completes its Australian tour.

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