Zed pointed out that Ramayana was an integral part of Hinduism and was held in such reverence that Hindus believed that simply reading/ hearing of it showered blessings upon the reader/ listener. Rama, the hero of Ramayana, was incarnation of Vishnu, and was worshipped by Hindus.

With seasoned and skillful professionals at the helm, we did not expect any problem, Zed said and added that they were just urging for more sensitivity towards faith traditions and careful handling of Hindu concepts and terminology. Zed, however, expressed concern at the mentioning of “re-imagined environments” in the ACT announcement of the play. If ACT or their associates needed any expertise on Hinduism related issues, he or other Hindu scholars would gladly provide the resources, Zed stated.

Ramayana, an ancient Sanskrit scripture that consists of 24,000 stanzas, explores various themes, including human existence, concept of dharma, etc.

According to reports, opening night of the world premiere of three-hour long multi-discipline “Ramayana” will be held on October 18, and it will continue till November 11. Described by ACT as “eye-popping roller coaster”, its production budget was about $500,000, took two years in scripting and includes a large ensemble. Rama is played by Rafael Untalan, Sita by Khanh Doan, Ravana by John Farrage, Lakshmana by Tim Gouran and Hanuman by Brandon O'Neill in this play directed by Sheila Daniels and Kurt Beattie and adapted-created by Yussef El Guindi and Stephanie Timm. Tickets cost up to $37.50.

Located in downtown Seattle and dating back to 1965, ACT defines itself as: “A Theatre of New Ideas…A cultural engine that makes plays, dance, music, and film”; and believes in the “theatre of the moment”. Kurt Beattie, Gian-Carlo Scandiuzzi and Brian Turner are its art director, executive director and the board chairman respectively.