You’re invited to Mrs. Krishnan’s Party, an innovative, collaborative, interactive show that turns audience members into welcomed guests! A theatrical gem created by New Zealand-based Indian Ink Theatre Company, Mrs. Krishnan’s Party is a heartwarming and humorous exploration of human connections and cultural celebration.
Co-founded by Jacob Rajan and Justin Lewis, Indian Ink has been enchanting audiences for more than 25 years with its unique blend of artful storytelling, mischievous wit, theatrical magic and cross-cultural narratives that aim to connect us through our shared humanity. Since its beginnings in 1997, the company has earned 13 international awards, critical acclaim, standing ovations and multiple sell-out seasons for its ability to promote community and foster empathy in audiences across cultures.
“So different, so original, so creatively fresh and so much fun, no one wanted to go home.”
Waikato Times
Set in the heart of Auckland, Mrs. Krishnan’s Party centers on the vivacious title character, a warm and charismatic widow who owns a small corner shop, called a “dairy” in New Zealand. Her tenant, James — a young, larger-than-life DJ who rents an apartment attached to the store — has invited a few friends into the back room of the shop as a special surprise to celebrate Onam, an ancient Hindu festival. But when dozens and dozens of strangers turn up (you, the audience), James has no choice but to throw the party of Mrs. Krishnan’s life.
Mrs. Krishnan’s Party is an immersive experience like no other, where audiences are invited to join the party with music, dancing, bites to eat and more. Garlands decorate the ceiling, music flows, food simmers on the stove, laughter abounds, and strangers become fast friends in this joyous celebration of life. No two nights are ever the same in this deliciously fun experience, as actors juggle cooking, music, guests and unfolding drama.
Throughout the course of the party, performers Kalyani Nagarajan and Justin Rogers display an impeccable ability to improvise, blending scripted and unscripted narratives to create a truly immersive experience that blurs the lines between performer and audience. At Mrs. Krishnan’s Party, everyone is swept up in the joyous chaos of the celebration — or, as Waikato Times wrote, the show is “so different, so original, so creatively fresh and so fun no one wanted to go home.”
“A heartwarming recipe of culture, folklore, dance and cookery.”
Appetite for the Arts
