To welcome iconic Canadian playwright Anusree Roy’s long awaited sequel, Theatre Passe Muraille invites you to an intimate reading of Roy’s acclaimed one-woman play, Pyaasa (meaning “thirsty” in Hindi).

Set in Calcutta, Pyaasa tells the story of Chaya, an eleven-year-old untouchable who dreams of nothing more than learning her times tables. When Chaya’s mother begs a woman from a higher caste to give Chaya a job at a local tea stall, Chaya’s journey from childhood to adulthood begins and ends over ten days. A moving and heartfelt play, Pyaasa illustrates with subtlety and nuanced truth the inequalities and injustices that persist through the Indian caste system.

Pyaasa premiered at Theatre Passe Muraille in 2007 and won two Dora Mavor Moore Awards in 2008, including Outstanding New Play and Outstanding Performance. This powerful work performed to sold out crowds and launched Roy‘s celebrated career, establishing her as a vital voice in Canadian theatre and film.

As Theatre Passe Muraille prepares to present Roy’s newest work, Through the Eyes of God, this is your chance to experience where it all began—a chance to witness the origin of Chaya’s story with the original cast and the artistry that continues to move audiences today.

Pyaasa will be read by playwright Anusree Roy with a Q&A hosted by Marjorie Chan.

All proceeds from this fundraiser will go to the Andy McKim Endowment Fund.

Get your tickets now by following the event link below!