Indian Ink Theatre Company

Jacob Rajan and Justin Lewis founded Indian Ink in 1997 aiming to combine the theatrical language of the mask with strong new writing for the theatre. Their original vision was to create three works that would be kept in the repertoire for presentation locally and internationally.

The plays are connected by theme and theatrical style exploring three eternal questions. 'Will I find love?' is a focus of Krishnan’s Dairy while, 'How can I find happiness?' is a cornerstone of The Candlestickmaker. 'What is worth preserving?' is the underlying theme of The Pickle King.

This trilogy of plays has received wide acclaim and is regarded as the most significant body of work in New Zealand theatre history. They are described by media as ‘classics’ and are set alongside Bruce Mason’s The End of the Golden Weather as leading examples of Kiwi theatre.

The company has adapted the traditions of the mask to the modern theatre by creating contemporary characters and stories that wrap universal themes in Indian flavours. A key ingredient is the use of humour to entertain and open audiences up to view the world in new ways.

The company has won three Production of the Year awards, two Edinburgh Fringe First awards and the plays have broken box office records on the way to a total audience of over 160,000 people. The productions have all toured extensively throughout New Zealand and international seasons include Australia, Singapore and Edinburgh.

With their trilogy completed, Jacob and Justin are now collaborating on new creative projects that include a film adaptation of Krishnan’s Dairy along with a new play The Dentist’s Chair, which will premier in 2008.

The company retains its plays in repertoire with a particular focus on international touring and a readiness to present the plays wherever there is sufficient demand.

“Such is the power of Jacob Rajan’s groundbreaking work it changes the way you see the world. All New Zealanders should see it.” NZ Listener

Region: Auckland