But it's there to entertain, not scare. There's nothing clinical about the ongoing Medicine show in the capital -- it's all about theatre, music, dance, 'rock operas' and creative genres that defy definition. And there's a reason behind its bizarre name

But it's there to entertain, not scare. There's nothing clinical about the ongoing Medicine show in the capitalu00a0-- it's all about theatre, music, dance, 'rock operas' and creative genres that defy definition. And there's a reason behind its bizarre name

What does soul medicine look like? A mix. Singer-songwriter Sajid Akhbar sings an original song and an adaptation of St James Infirmaryu00a0-- an American folk song in costume, with a live corpse on stage.

Fear actor: Emperor Minge with Shelli Koffmanc
Pics/ Parikhit Pal

A li'l later, there's Telephone Call From Istanbulu00a0-- a Delhi-based six-member band. While two Frenchmen, Antoine Redon and Romain Luquines, perform a combination of folk, rock, reggae, opera and Broadway classics. And you're healed of everyday horror.

The capital's playing host tou00a0 Stiff Kittens' Medicine Show, an entertainment package that throws in almost every conceivable form of the performing arts, even those that aren't.

Tango to theatre
The multi-art affair transcends typicality, since the arts it embraces know no bounds. "From Tango dancers to avant-garde musical and theatrical performances, a surreal jazz session to stand-up comedy, the culture carnival has something in store for every temperament.

"It's all about artistic freedom enriched with rich expressions," sums Stefan Kaye, organiser and producer. "The show also draws its inspiration from the European burlesque tradition," she adds. The line-up, among other acts, includes a performance by Sridhar/Thayilu00a0-- a lyrical pop duo from New York-Bombay-Hong Kong. This apart, a theatrical performance by Tadpole Rep featuring the Kaye himself, will be performed with a highly complex word and rhythm interplay.

If you prefer sexier stage art, there's Californian dancer Maria Teresa to do the needful. A musical performance by Polo with the Jazz Bastards is also on the cards.u00a0 To conclude, the cast of forthcoming rock opera 'Hair' will perform as the finale. Let yours down.

What is a medicine show?
Medicine shows were travelling horse and wagon teams, which peddled 'miracle cure' medications and other products between various entertainment acts. Their precise origins unknown, medicine shows were common in the 19th century United States (though they continued up to World War II). They are most commonly associated with miracle elixirs (referred to as snake oil), which, it was claimed, had the ability to cure any disease, smooth wrinkles, remove stains, prolong life or cure any number of common ailments. Entertainment often included a freak show, a flea circus, musical acts, magic tricks, jokes, and storytelling.

Stiff Kittens' Medicine Show
On till: March 7
Where: Different venues
For more information, Call: 9911290113, 9873134028, and 9811979071

Schedule
March 5
Where: NU.Delhi Q'BA , 14/48 Malcha Marg
When: 8.30 pm onwards

March 6
A special spin-off show
Where: The Jazz Lounge, The Love Hotel, ai
MGF Metropolitan Mall Saket
When: 8 pm onwards

March 7
Where: The Palms Town and Country Club, Gurgaon
When: 8 pm onwards
Entry: As per club rules