Jacob Rajan Explores Life’s Big Questions Through Theatre

Actor and co-founder of Indian Ink, Jacob Rajan, is once again captivating audiences with his latest production, Paradise or the Impermanence of Ice Cream. This play, which premiered on September 5 at the Regent Theatre in Dunedin, delves into profound questions about life, mortality, and the nature of happiness. Rajan, known for his unique style that blends masks, puppetry, and comedy, believes that exploring these significant themes is essential for both artists and audiences.

Rajan reflects humorously on his experience with a life-sized vulture puppet in the show, noting, “When I’m on stage with that thing, nobody’s looking at me.” For nearly three decades, Rajan and his collaborator Justin Lewis have delighted audiences with their thought-provoking performances. They aim to tackle serious questions while ensuring that humor remains at the forefront of their storytelling.

The inspiration for Paradise or the Impermanence of Ice Cream arose from a trip to India before the Covid-19 pandemic. During their visit to the exclusive Malabar Hill in Mumbai, Rajan and Lewis learned about the Parsi community’s practice regarding the deceased. The “Towers of Silence,” where vultures dispose of the dead, struck Rajan as both grim and fascinating. This curiosity led him to investigate the alarming decline of India’s vulture population over the past decade, a situation that poses significant ecological consequences.

Rajan’s research uncovered that the Parsi community, deeply connected to vultures in their religious practices, were among the first to notice the impact of this decline. “The vultures are nature’s sanitation department,” he explains, highlighting their critical role in maintaining the ecosystem. He emphasizes the urgency of this issue, describing it as “the fastest mass extinction of all time.”

The production faced challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic, which halted live performances. Indian Ink adapted by developing their work during lockdowns, and the show began touring after restrictions eased. Rajan plays nine characters, including a Parsi woman and a man on a quest for paradise. This flexibility allows the team to revisit beloved characters from previous shows, enriching their narratives.

The stage design for Paradise is minimalist yet imaginative. The vulture puppet, crafted and operated by puppeteer Jon Coddington, is a highlight of the production. Rajan praises Coddington’s expertise, stating, “We’ve got the guy who knows every inch of this thing that he’s made.” The show features a backdrop of impressionistic projections and an immersive soundscape that evokes the bustling atmosphere of Mumbai.

Rajan’s theatrical approach invites audiences to engage their imagination. “It’s not Netflix. It’s not spoon-fed to you,” he notes, explaining that the absence of elaborate sets requires viewers to visualize the action. This interactive experience fosters a collective connection among audience members, a feeling Rajan believes is more nourishing for the soul.

As Indian Ink prepares for future performances, the company remains committed to creating content that resonates with audiences. Their shows are designed to be portable, fitting into manageable setups for touring. Rajan highlights the sustainability of reintroducing past productions, allowing characters and stories to evolve over time. “With the right mindset, you just go deeper rather than continually grabbing for the shiny thing,” he asserts.

Both Rajan and Lewis have grown alongside their works, bringing new perspectives to their characters. Rajan reflects on the evolution of his performances over the years, noting that personal experiences enrich his portrayals. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in connecting society, stating, “That’s what theatre is. It’s make-believe. We’re all pretending.”

In a world that increasingly values novelty, Rajan advocates for embracing the depth found in revisiting established narratives. His commitment to exploring profound themes through engaging performances ensures that audiences continue to seek out Indian Ink’s productions. As Rajan prepares to embark on the next chapter of his theatrical journey, he remains dedicated to answering life’s big questions on stage.