Invisible, a deeply affecting and inclusive theatre production presented by The Necessary Stage and ART:DIS in collaboration with Esplanade Theatres on the Bay, is prompting audiences to rethink how society understands disability, empathy, and visibility.
Running from Jan 21 to 25, the 90-minute play explores the often-overlooked world of invisible disabilities – conditions that are real, impactful, yet not immediately apparent.
Through a carefully woven narrative, Invisible brings to the stage the quiet struggles many endure behind seemingly ordinary lives.
Written and co-directed by award-winning playwright Haresh Sharma, alongside theatre practitioner, educator and writer Grace Kalaiselvi, the play, staged at the Esplanade Theatre Studio, centres on four women whose lives intersect at a hotel. As their stories unfold, the audience is drawn into deeply personal experiences involving dyslexia, infertility, and other non-apparent conditions, challenging ingrained assumptions about strength, shame and vulnerability.
“The specific element I’m looking at is invisible disability – something where you might have an ailment or condition that is not quite apparent,” Mr Haresh said.
He added that the creative process was rooted in extensive research and improvisation. “From the research, we try, and make it come alive by creating characters and improvisation.”
The collaboration with ART:DIS significantly shaped the production’s inclusive approach. Peter Sau, head of artistic development at ART:DIS, noted that the play also reflects the journey of disabled artistes themselves.
“It really talks about Jaspreet growing up as a disabled artist and also to share the support system,” he said, adding that the process transformed Mr Haresh’s approach to writing and staging, moving towards more adaptive, floor-based methods.
Ms Kalaiselvi emphasised the importance of breaking traditional casting norms. “Even if you have a disability, you don’t always have to play that specific disability,” she said, highlighting how actors also embody characters who are never physically seen on stage, expanding the idea of representation.
Performer Jaspreet Kaur Sekhon described the experience as transformative. “I would like to do more in acting – it’s a great journey,” she said.
Audience reactions have been equally affirming. “A beautiful blend of humour, purpose and emotion, so tastefully done,” said Bharatanatyam dancer Nikita Menon.
Marketing platform specialist Arjun Kareti noted that the play reflects a growing openness to discussing social issues. “It creates awareness – and that’s what theatre should do,” he said.
