Bhante's Visit to New York
The Rubin Museum of Art in New York, one of the leading museums of Buddhist art in the world, has invited the Venerable K Sri Rewatha Thero to act as advisor and participate in a programme on the Dhammapada, called The Way of the Buddha.
This stage Drama is directed by Nicole Ansari Cox and includes performances by Ellen Burstyn, Brian Cox and Linus Roache.
Bhante Rewatha said “This is a wonderful opportunity for me to teach about the teaching of the Buddha to people who are artistic and who respect other religions. A drama is a brilliant and sensitive way of giving a message to the community. Even in Buddhist countries ,artists use Buddhist stories as a plot for their productions .In ancient times the village temple preaching hall (Dharmasala) was the theatre. They produced dramas based on the Jataka stories.
I carefully read the script of this drama written by Nicole Ansari Cox. I was fascinated by her writings. She has written as a Buddhist scholar. This drama is academic and very classical. She has written very deep philosophy in very simple language and in a very artistic and dramatic way without damaging the original content of the Dhammapada. I think that this is the best way to present this kind of deep message to the modern busy and stressful society.
I met Nicole and Brian at their wedding ceremony and was invited to conduct a blessing ceremony for them and their friends.On that day I felt they would do a great work for the community .They recently came to see me during their holiday in Scotland. That day we discussed the Dhammapada. It was lovely to see two artists, husband and wife, working together and sharing their experience and interest in one piece of artwork. I am very much looking forward seeing this production and working with this wonderful down to earth couple and their friends in New York.”
We wish him a safe Journey.
NB.We will be doing the Friday Meditation class this week but due to Bhante’s Visit to New York we have to cancel other classes on next week. (14,15,17th October)
