LIFE OF PI, a captivating theatrical experience based on Yann Martel’s Man Booker Prize-winning bestseller of the same name, is the story of a young man, Pi (Divesh Subaskaran), navigating his way through life’s challenges. Growing up as a Hindu in his father’s Zoo, Pi develops an affinity towards the animals. When the zoo acquires a Tiger Pi attempts to look into its soul and unknowing of the perils of his actions is only just saved by his father.

We follow his exploration of faith, spirituality and the physical world, coping with decisions that fundamentally change his life. Upon his father’s decision to move the family to Canada, Pi becomes accepting but unhappy. On their travel, the boat is shipwrecked only Pi and some of the animals survive. 

We see first hand the difficult choices faced by all on the lifeboat as they battle through the trials thrown at them. In the end only Pi and the tiger survive the 227 day journey to safety. 

The production seeped energy and felt physically powerful. Divesh Subaskaran captured all aspects of Pi’s character, and his performance in his first professional role was completely believable. I felt his thirst. 

The puppetry design from Finn Caldwell and Nick Barnes was fantastic and the puppeteers with their incredible skills made the movements feel very lifelike. 

The carnivorous French cook, mamaji’s swimming obsession and the very officious Mrs. Okamoto left a lasting impression. 

This journey of self-discovery is told in an artistic, magical  almost surreal way, illustrating Martel’s perspectives on spirituality and the physical world. We have all faced difficulties on the road to resilience. 

A captivating, thought provoking and visually creative performance. 

Well worth a visit. 

Life of Pi is at New Victoria Theatre, Woking from Monday 2nd October, 2023 to Saturday 7th October, 2023.