iNDICA NEWS BUREAU-
Mount Madonna School (MMS) is bringing back its beloved annual tradition – a spectacular musical adaptation of the classic Indian epic, Ramayana! This year marks the 45th presentation of the play, and it promises to be just as magical as ever.
This year’s performance, running from June 6 to 9 at the Mexican Heritage Theater in San Jose, follows the thrilling tale of Prince Rama, Prince Lakshmana, and the monkey god Hanuman on their daring mission to rescue Princess Sita. Audiences of all ages will be captivated by the dazzling costumes, lively humor, and timeless themes woven into the story.
The true magic of this show lies in the production’s inclusivity. The student cast ranges from preschool to high school. Traditional and contemporary music, a choir, and more than a dozen original songs enhance the performance
“The production of ‘Ramayana!‘ has been central to Mount Madonna School since its founding,” said Head of School Ann Goewert. “With this show, we carry forward a tradition inspired by Baba Hari Dass (1923-2018) and supported by the Mount Madonna Center. It’s a culmination of the entire academic year, a celebration of diversity, and a platform for creative self-expression. The Ramayana is a timeless classic teaching the universal values of truth, duty, love, and service to the greater good. As students work together to prepare for this ambitious show, they embody the values embedded in the Ramayana.”
The Mount Madonna Center (MMC) for the Creative Arts and Sciences, founded in 1978, is a residential community that shares a deep connection with the school. Baba Hari Dass (Babaji), a revered silent monk, yoga teacher, and practitioner from India, served as the guiding inspiration for the establishment of the center, aligning its history and mission with that of the school. The annual performance of the “Ramayana!” stands as an integral component of this shared mission. The
The musical’s roots trace back to the 1970s when members of the Mount Madonna community adapted the ancient tale into a rock musical. Echoes of Broadway hits like “Hair,” “Jesus Christ Superstar,” and a contemporary nod to “Hamilton” infuse the production.
“Ramayana!” is a true whole-school production. Students of all ages work together, fostering connections that extend beyond the classroom. The performing arts team not only provides guidance and structure but also empowers young actors to infuse their own creativity and ownership into their roles. This collaborative effort strengthens theatrical skills and builds confidence, making “Ramayana!” a powerful example of theater as a unifying community.
The development of theatrical skills and strengthening of confidence to be bold in presentation are woven into the team’s time with the students.
The current version of the show features a kaleidoscope of elements. From choreographed fight scenes, monkeys, monsters, comedy, and deep introspection. King Ravana, in his unique ten-headed costume, adds to the spectacle. From Bharatanatyam to Hip Hop, rousing choreographed dances captivate the audience ranging from intricate costumes to handcrafted props, and every detail is meticulously crafted. The production even features a 25-foot Kumbhakarna puppet with a radio-controlled mouth and eyes first created by Baba Hari Dass. Each item is a work of handmade art.
“Ramayana!” stands as a Broadway-caliber production, now in its 45th iteration. It enriches the artistic and cultural life of the San Francisco and Monterey Bay areas, connecting a living tradition with India and the global Indian diaspora. For generations of students and theatergoers, it remains a unique treasure.
Each character within the “Ramayana!” narrative symbolizes a facet of human personality. Hanuman epitomizes devotion, Ravana personifies greed and pride, and Rama embodies duty and righteousness. These qualities mirror aspects of our own nature, underscoring the universal themes inherent in morality tales. Ultimately, it is the triumph of goodness and virtue that prevails, echoing timeless moral principles.
All seats of the June 6-9 show are reserved and tickets are available at Ramayana.BrownPaperTickets.com.
