Shakuntala and the Ring of Recognition
By Kalidasa

Acting is breathing. It is alive and colorful and it asks for ALL of you. When an actor receives a new play, she essentially receives a whole new world that is waiting to be explored. The keys for this adventure from the known to the unknown are openmindedness and curiosity. As we prepare to perform Kalidasa's classic Hindu play, Shakuntala and the Ring of Recognition, we will study life in the Himalayas of northern India in Fifth Century CE, and we will also engage in a variety of Acting Exercises that will help us transform from modern urban city dwellers into hermits, kings and Hindu gods.

As the Drama teacher at St. Jean's and a professional actor in Magis Theatre Company in New York City, I am grateful to the NEH Institute and to Professors Lewis and van der Kuijp for this opportunity to do the dramaturgical research for Shakuntala and the Ring of Recognition.  In September 2008, I will introduce Shakuntala to my Drama classes at St. Jean’s and in January 2010, I will perform in the New York City premier of Shakuntala with the Magis Theatre Company.