Experiential installation; dialogues in otherworldly realms

‘Muhavere’ is an experiential installation based on the art of traditional Ottoman shadow play, known as ‘Karagoz’.  Since the 17th century, there were vital hubs across Cyprus where masters of shadow play congregated and practiced this type of art.  ‘Karagoz’ is known for reflecting social norms through its narratives, where the plot develops behind a white curtain called Ayna, which translates to mirror.  In ‘Muhavere’, the plot is projected in front of a mirror screen, factually reflecting the audience, while enabling them to observe themselves in action.  

Inspired by the most played plot in Cyprus, ‘The Bloody Poplar’, this installation depicts a landscape filled with red poppy anemones - a species of flowering plant native to Cyprus – and a cottonwood tree that possess supernatural energies.  In Karagoz, muhavere is the second part of the play, which translates to dialogue, representing a conversation between the two main characters of the plot, Karagoz and Hacivat.   The two characters are constantly in conflict, yet cannot exist without each other, reflecting on the paradoxical nature of human relationships. Physical, emotional, and cultural distances simultaneously shape and challenge our sense of connection.  The wooden rods used to manipulate the figures in the play are used to connect the two performers in ‘Muhavere’, reminiscing the relationship between Karagoz and Hacivat. In this sense, the distance between them serves as a reminder of the inherent complexities of human relationships, while their enduring connection reflects the timeless truths and moral values that bind us together as a global community.

Creator, Director: Nona Michael

Performers: Nona Michael & Panayiota Nikolaou

Costume Design: Mary Charalambous - Gypsioti

Music: KASSKA

Videography & Editing: Michalakis Georgiou

Special Thanks: Stavri Papa, Giorgos Antoniou