• A unique series of readings by Mind Adventures

The Mind Adventures Theatre Company is set to captivate audiences once again with its latest production, a profound series of readings inspired by Oscar Wilde’s iconic letter, ‘De Profundis’. Taking place on Wednesday (22) at 7.30 p.m. at the Namel Malini Punchi Theatre, this event offers a reflective and immersive experience centred around suffering, despair, and the human condition.

Under the artistic direction of Mind Adventures Founder and Artistic Director Tracy Holsinger, the production brings together an eclectic selection of writings, spanning centuries and genres. Importantly, ‘De Profundis’ is not a conventional stage play, Holsinger noted: “It is a series of readings from a selection of poets, novelists, and playwrights – from people as old as William Shakespeare to really contemporary poets who are writing right now.”

‘De Profundis’ will feature performances by six talented actors and musicians: Brian Allen, Simon Allen, Sean Amarasekera, Steve De La Zilwa, Thusitha Jayasundera, and Tracy Holsinger.

The inspiration for this production is deeply personal for Holsinger, who has been involved in advocacy work for the Free Palestine Movement. She noted the overwhelming scale of suffering witnessed in places such as Palestine, Lebanon, and Syria and how these experiences have shaped her creative outlook. 

“We are almost desensitised to it because now it is everywhere. However, it got me thinking about suffering and the human condition, and this event is to remind ourselves of the enormity of what is happening there,” she reflected.

The name of the production, ‘De Profundis,’ takes its name from a letter written by Wilde while he was jailed for homosexuality. The letter was written to his lover Lord Alfred Douglas and was later published under the title ‘De Profundis,’ which means ‘from the depths’. 

“I think it is the idea of being in the depths and being preoccupied with suffering and despair,” Holsinger said of the meaning of ‘De Profundis,’ explaining that this feeling of despair served as the underlying theme for the overall series of readings. “It’s not just about suffering but about different kinds of suffering and loss,” she added. 

‘De Profundis’ features readings of excerpts of work from literary giants such as Shakespeare and Wilde to contemporary voices such as Palestinian poets Mahmoud Darwish and Rafeef Ziadah, exploring themes of despair and hope with poignancy and power. 

The evening’s programme includes a wide range of pieces, from Ajith C. Herath’s ‘Because We Were Not There’ to Leonard Woolf’s moving reflections on Virginia Woolf’s death, and Ziadah’s powerful ‘We Teach Life, Sir’. 

These selections are paired with live music, adding another layer to the sensory experience. British composer Simon Allen and Brian Allen, currently in residency with Musicmatters, will provide musical accompaniment. 

Adding further depth to the production is the participation of Jayasundera, a distinguished Sri Lankan actress and Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) graduate. Having worked extensively with the National Theatre in the UK and appearing in notable productions such as the ‘Lord of the Rings’ series, Jayasundera brings her wealth of experience to this intimate and thought-provoking event.

This series of readings will resonate deeply with anyone who has experienced loss or sought meaning in moments of despair. With its unique blend of literary brilliance, musical artistry, and heartfelt performances, it promises to be an evening that lingers long after the final word is spoken.

For Holsinger, the production also reflects her growing interest in the audio experience. 

“I think ‘De Profundis,’ as a mix of readings and music, is a listening experience – a chance to be quiet and hear something. Sometimes we just don’t make the space to listen. As a director, I am becoming more interested in the audio experience. It may also come from the fact that I have been in radio for so long, but I really love audio work,” she said.  

Info Box

‘De Profundis’ by Mind Adventures takes place on Wednesday (22) at the Namel Malini Punchi Theatre in Borella with a second performance scheduled for 6 February at the Galle Literary Festival

For more information and to purchase tickets for the Wednesday (22) performance:

Whatsapp: +94 76 244 3221