I'm still searching and I'm sure there are a lot many more Western operas with Indian themes that have faded into history.

234

You have to be a little more authentic.

229

The fact that it is set in a phantasmagorical island somewhere in ancient Sri Lanka throws up immense possibilities to explore this cultural hybrid, whether it's through costumes, sets or simply because of the Hindu environment that forms the spine of the story.

215

We've always tried to focus on productions that bind two cultures.

193

It's been really, really tough.

166

Even though there are so many Indian touches, this opera is very deeply rooted in French operatic traditions. For instance, in one scene I describe Shiva as being a blonde woman. That might seem ridiculous to you and me, but it's how Bizet perceived it back in the 19th century.

165

Instead of having a completely Western ballet, we have a ballet with elements of Indian dance.

148

It's a theme familiar to Indian audiences.

93