Combining striking physical storytelling with dynamic projection and a soundtrack that can be felt and heard, Last Rites is a non-verbal solo show told through a Deaf man’s perspective, exploring the poignant story of a complex relationship cut short.
Co-devised by Scottish-Singaporean theatremaker and Deaf artist Ramesh Meyyappan and Co-Artistic Director of Ad Infinitum George Mann, the show follows Arjun who has to travel from the UK to India to perform his father’s funeral rights. But how can he perform an ancient Hindu practice that was never passed on?
In life, his father refused to learn sign language, but in death Arjun needs to find a way to say goodbye. Diving into memory sequences examining the impact of this decision on his own upbringing, Arjun also grapples with the challenge of being a dad himself. Created in response to Meyyappan and Mann’s recollection of losing their fathers, and their own lived experiences of becoming fathers, the show celebrates the transformative power of grief and parenthood.
Ramesh Meyyappan performs as intergenerational characters throughout the performance, supported by projection, bass-heavy sound design and physical storytelling to create a piece that includes some BSL with creative captions and is accessible to deaf, Deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing audiences. This intimate, final ceremony brings to life a rich tapestry of shared memories and a complex relationship cut short by death.
18 – 19 February The Lowry, Salford
Pier, 8 The Quays, Salford, Manchester M50 3AZ
8pm | £16.50 – £14.50
thelowry.com | 0161 876 2000
