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AUSTIN SHAKESPEARE PRESENTS

MAHABHARATA TALES

FEBRUARY 14 - 23 | THE ROLLINS THEATER

Austin, TX – Austin Shakespeare invites audiences to an extraordinary theatrical event with its upcoming production of MAHABHARATA TALES, an imaginative and powerful exploration of one of the world’s greatest epic poems. It will run Feb. 14-23 at the Long Center’s Rollins Theatre with a low-priced preview Feb. 14. Regular tickets start at $28.

The production, featuring more than 20 talented Austin-based actors, weaves together riveting stories, divine encounters, and breathtaking battles from this timeless Hindu classic.

“Our new theatrical exploration delves into the tales of The Mahabharata, including the profound teachings of The Bhagavad Gita,” said Artistic Director Ann Ciccolella. “Fans of Greek mythology will find themselves captivated by the intricate drama and grandeur, while those familiar with Hindu epics will be intrigued by our contemporary spin.”

The production brings to life the dynastic battles between two noble families, interspersed with thrilling fight scenes, encounters between mortals and gods, and the timeless philosophical dilemmas presented in The Bhagavad Gita. Adding a modern dimension to the performance are:

• Contemporary Music: Original compositions and performances by Austin musician Nagavalli infuse the ancient tales with a hauntingly beautiful, modern soundscape.
• Dance and Color: Vibrant choreography and stunning visuals highlight the rich cultural heritage of The Mahabharata.
• Dynamic Cast: A diverse ensemble of more than 20 Austin-based actors delivers electrifying performances that breathe life into this epic narrative.

“This is a production for everyone,” Ciccolella said. “Whether you’re drawn to the universal themes of duty, family, and destiny, or you’re enchanted by the interplay of gods and mortals, MAHABHARATA TALES offers something extraordinary.”

MAHABHARATA TALES stars Ev Lunning, Menaha Khurana, Rick Roemer, Amruta Ponkshe, Keya Zingade, Harsh Joshi, Sugavan Malligarjunan, Chetan Malpure, Shamita Behl, Gina Houston, Nish Kothandaraman, Sarita Ocón, Chuck Winkler, Kumar Abhinav, Sumit Puri, A.Y. Oza, Kirk Barbera, Ailya Qureshi, Pranav Sastry, and Amani Dorn, plus soloist Kathak dancer Neha Deosthali.

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Event Details

• Date: Friday, February 14, 2025 - Sunday, February 23, 2025
• Time: Saturday at 7:30 P.M. | Sunday at 2:00 P.M.
• Venue: The Rollins Theater
• Website: https://my.thelongcenter.org/overview/3931?queueittoken=e_safetynet~q_b18fce3b-92ba-4ff5-9281-cc5244bafc69~ts_1737486988~ce_true~rt_safetynet~h_cde647a3447e693bc05331b313b864ff806451b9e4836230463f21d6c046ef4c

Ticket Information

• Cost: Starting at $28.00 | Student tickets $19.00

Presenter Details

• Name: Austin Shakespeare

Founded in 1984 and the only professional classical theater company in Central Texas, Austin Shakespeare performs timeless stories that explore the human adventure and celebrate the power of words on stages and in schools in the heart of Texas. In the fall and spring, Austin Shakespeare also produces plays by Shaw, Schiller, and Stoppard at The Long Center for the Performing Arts Rollins Studio Theatre and in May Free Shakespeare in Zilker Park. Austin Shakespeare’s ongoing “Shakespeare Aloud” reading group and “Artist’s Way” sessions invite new participants weekly and the company’s education program Shakespeare 20/20 sends professional actors into the schools to encourage love of language.

Venue Details