Reviewed by Ian Mowll
This play is an adaptation of the wonderful novel Life of Pi by Yann Martel. This stage production is amazing, with stunning visual effects and life-sized puppets of animals such as a tiger, orangutan, hyena and zebra. These are animated by puppeteers, and it’s done so well that I was captivated by their life-like portrayal.
The play is a story of a young man who is the son of a zookeeper. During the story, the young man changes his name to ‘Pi’, an irrational number which is a nice touch as the story is, at least in part, about the other than rational. The whole family decide to emigrate from India to Canada but on the way their ship sinks and Pi is left on a life raft, along with some of the zoo animals.
The author has a philosophical approach and Pi is involved with several of the world’s religions whilst in India with the thought that they all provide stories to help us. I also like the fact that the play deals with life and death situations and Pi is faced with ethical dilemmas during his time as a castaway. This gave the play a gritty reality which, for me, makes it all the more compelling.
At the very end, Pi narrates an alternative and much more believable story about his time as a castaway. A story that involves people rather than animals and is less fantastical. Both stories could be true and it’s up to each person to decide which story they want to believe. This, for me, is the essence of the play. Rationality is honoured with the human story – an essential part of the way we make sense of the world. Yet also, the fantastical animal story (which may particularly appeal to GreenSpirit readers) is also honoured, which shows me how important imaginative stories are for our journey through life. How they can give us the inspiration and psychic energy to face the many challenges of life.
The theatre was packed with many school children in the audience. I am so heartened that such a philosophical and meaningful story resonates with so many people of all ages. Once again, spirituality is shown to be an important part of our journey through life; it’s just the way each of us chooses to engage with it.