GEM’S THEATRE PRODUCTION “FROM WHENCE WE CAME- THE INDIAN EXPERIENCE’  ON THIS WEEKEND AT THE NATIONAL CULTURAL CENTRE

By: Marvin Cato | HGP Nightly News|

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA — The National Cultural Centre (NCC) will be transformed into a portal to the past this weekend as GEMS Theatre Productions, in collaboration with NRITYAGEET Dance Theatre, stages the highly anticipated historical drama, “FROM WHENCE WE CAME – The Indian Experience.” The production, which opens Saturday, March 14, at 8:00 p.m. and continues Sunday, March 15, at 4:00 p.m., is the second installment in a six-part series designed to chronicle the arrival and integration of Guyana’s diverse ethnic groups.

Real History, Real People

Based on the book and play “Kisna: From Whence We Came – British India to British Guiana” by Dr. Seeta Shah Roath and directed by Sonia Yarde, the drama is rooted in rigorous archival research.

• Authentic Accounts: The script draws from 19th-century governors’ reports, court records, and oral histories. Every instance of hardship—from the kidnappings at the Calcutta depots to the uprisings on the estates—is based on documented reality rather than fiction.
• The Narrative Arc: The play follows young Indian men and women lured by false promises of high-paying jobs, only to endure an arduous journey across two oceans to a “strange land” with unforeseen challenges.
• Cultural Resilience: Beyond the struggle, the play celebrates the religious and cultural retentions that allowed the indentured laborers to maintain their identity and eventually thrive as Indo-Guyanese.

A Career Milestone for Gem Madhoo-Nascimento

For Gem Madhoo-Nascimento, a stalwart of Guyanese theatre with over 50 years in the industry, this production holds deep personal significance.

• A Fitting Bow: Madhoo-Nascimento indicated that this series serves as a “fitting ending” to her illustrious career as she prepares for retirement.
• The “African Experience” Next: She revealed that while the script for the African installment of the series is already written, its production remains contingent on securing further funding.
• Legacy of Education: Madhoo-Nascimento emphasized that her primary goal is “edutainment”—using the stage to spark conversations between parents and children about their shared roots.

Production Details and Gala Highlights

The weekend performances are designed as “Gala Events,” offering patrons a full cultural experience beyond the stage.

• Amenities: A fully stocked bar with cocktails will be available for patrons.
• Grand Finale: The show concludes with a performance by international Guyanese chutney singer Nadira Shah, featuring the song “Desi from Guyana,” accompanied by the Berbice Delight chutney dancers.
• Cast: A star-studded local cast brings the 19th-century setting to life through emotive acting and traditional dance.

Tickets and School Shows

Following the weekend public shows, GEMS Theatre will host five school performances starting Monday, March 16, coordinated through the Ministry of Education to ensure students can engage with their history firsthand.

Tickets: $3,000 & $2,000 (Available at the NCC Box Office).