Theater Mu’s world premiere of Fifty Boxes of Earth, written by Ankita Raturi and directed by KT Shorb, presents a thought-provoking exploration of migration, community, and the limits of acceptance. Infused with mesmerizing choreography by Ananya Chatterjea and elements of puppetry, the production raises compelling questions about who belongs and who gets to decide.
At the heart of the story is Q, a newcomer who arrives in the neighborhood without furniture or personal belongings, but with fifty boxes of earth from a foreign motherland. While a young girl, Mina, embraces Q’s vision of fantastical, improbable plants, her father’s distrust grows, exposing the rigid structures that dictate legitimacy. However, the writing leans into a simplified, black-and-white conflict, relying on well-worn metaphors rather than delving into the nuances of its premise.
The staging presents a layered visual language, yet at times feels uneven. The main stage frequently pulls back to the upper stage, overshadowed by the presence of dancers—a striking but sometimes distancing effect. Shorb’s direction, while thematically ambitious, struggles with pacing, leaving some moments lingering too long while rushing others.
Despite some inconsistencies, Fifty Boxes of Earth remains an intriguing work that challenges audiences to reflect on the spaces we create for others. While it doesn’t fully break new ground, its core question—Where do you plant your roots?—is a resonant one, especially for many immigrants in today’s world.
Photo Courtesy: Rich Ryan Photography
