Experience the roaring theatrical triumph of Life of Pi at The Lowry this festive season

The critically acclaimed show, featuring the life-size puppeteered Royal Bengal Tiger, ‘Richard Parker,’ will be wowing audiences from Tuesday, December 5, 2023, to Saturday, January 6, 2024.

You can get your tickets to this amazing production by clicking here

Life of Pi – Yann Martel’s Masterpiece

“Life of Pi” is an adaptation of Yann Martel’s Man Booker Prize-winning novel, a literary sensation that has sold over fifteen million copies worldwide.

Now, it’s coming to Manchester, promising a breathtaking theatrical experience that will immerse you in a world of endurance and hope.

The Life of Pi

Based on the gripping narrative of the novel, Life of Pi unfolds after a devastating shipwreck leaves five survivors stranded on a lifeboat in the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

Among them are a hyena, a zebra, an orangutang, a sixteen-year-old boy, and a formidable 450-pound Royal Bengal tiger named Richard Parker.

As they face the test of time and the relentless challenges of nature, the ultimate question arises: who will triumph against all odds?

Divesh Subaskaran as Pi

In the lead role of Pi is Divesh Subaskaran, making his professional debut, alongside a talented ensemble cast, including Antony Antunes, Adwitha Arumugam, Bhawna Bhawsar, Ralph Birtwell, Kriss Dosanjh, Sebastian Goffin, Akash Heer, Romina Hytten, Katie Kennedy-Rose, Aizah Khan, Chand Martinez, Keshini Misha, Goldy Notay, Sharita Oomeer, Kate Rowsell, Lilian Tsang, Peter Twose, and many others.

Originally debuting to critical acclaim at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield in 2019, “Life of Pi” has since made its mark in North America and on Broadway.

Five Olivier Awards

It earned five prestigious Olivier Awards in April 2022, including Best New Play and Best Actor for Hiran Abeysekera, the original Pi.

An historic moment at the Olivier Awards was the collective recognition of the seven performers who puppeteer ‘Richard Parker,’ winning Best Actor in a Supporting Role.

The production also received accolades for its set and lighting design.

The Broadway premiere of “Life of Pi” was equally triumphant, securing Tony Awards in the categories of Best Scenic Design, Best Lighting Design, and Best Sound Design.

Max Webster’s Direction

Under the skilled direction of Max Webster, this remarkable show boasts a stellar creative team. Set and Costume Designer Tim Hatley, Puppet Designers Nick Barnes and Finn Caldwell, Puppet and Movement Director Finn Caldwell, Video Designer Andrzej Goulding, Lighting Designer Tim Lutkin, Sound Designer Carolyn Downing, Composer Andrew T Mackay, and Dramaturgy by Jack Bradley all contribute to this exceptional production.

Presented by Simon Friend in association with Playing Field and Tulchin/Bartner, “Life of Pi” is set to deliver an unforgettable theatrical experience, reaffirming its status as a modern theater masterpiece.

Lolita Chakrabarti

We spoke to Lolita Chakrabarti who adapted the book for the stage earlier this year.

In conversation with I Love Manchester, Lolita reflects on what drew her to the novel and the challenges she faced during the adaptation process.

She emphasises the universal appeal of the story, tackling themes of struggle, suffering, survival, and hope that resonates with people of all ages. Lolita’s focus on relationships, storytelling, and emotional transformation ensures a powerful and immersive experience for the audience.

Speaking about her connection to the novel, Lolita said, “I think what drew me into the novel when I first read it back in 2002 is that I had no idea where it was going. I was drawn to the vastness of the story and its intense nature. It had a visceral quality that kept me engaged throughout. I had no idea where it was heading.

“The book’s ability to surprise and leave readers questioning what actually happened stayed with me. It left a lasting impression. So when I was approached to adapt it in 2016, I immediately knew it was something I wanted to do. There are very few books that have that kind of impact.

Regarding the adaptation process, Lolita explains, “I focused on the relationships, the storytelling, and the overall structure.

“Emotionally, there needs to be a complete shift from the beginning to the end. It’s quite a simple breakdown when you think about it. Then it’s about the characters, some of whom I altered in terms of gender or combined, in order to tell the story I envisioned.

Lolita believes that the story’s universal appeal lies in its exploration of struggle, suffering, survival, and hope.

She said, “These are experiences that everyone can relate to, regardless of age.

“From a young age, we learn to cope with pain and overcome challenges. As we grow older, our perspective on these experiences changes. Everyone has faced suffering, struggled, and survived to some extent.”

“Although the scale may differ, the play allows audiences to see themselves within it.

“Additionally, it explores themes of family and loss, which resonates with many people.

“The play itself has delightful moments, blending philosophy, humour, and storytelling. It immerses the audience in beautiful visuals and offers a variety of emotional elements.”

Don’t miss the arrival of “Life of Pi” to The Lowry. For more information and ticket details, click here

The show takes place from Tuesday, December 5, 2023 – Saturday, January 6, 2024

And you can get your tickets by clicking here