The Healing Stage

TNIE takes a look at how theatre is being explored as a space for emotional wellbeing in Kerala

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It’s particularly heartening to note that the theatre scene in Kerala is anything but dying. In fact, there has been a dramatic revival, spearheaded by the younger generation.

What’s particularly noteworthy is how this resurgence is manifesting in the kinds of stages and shows being put up. It’s a society where mental health issues are still shadowed by stigma, and theatre is stepping into the space, but mainly not as a replacement for medical therapy, but as a space for reflection, contemplation, and self-discovery.

Theatre is increasingly being seen as a space for emotional ease, shared reflection, and mental wellbeing. For many, the takeaway isn’t just about the performance—it’s a sense of clarity, self-awareness, and community.