Thumbprint | Kamala Sankaram | Oper Wuppertal | Katharina Kastening

Thumbprint (New York 2014) by Kamala Sankaram at Oper Wuppertal tells the story of Mukhtar Mai, a Pakistani woman who fought for justice after surviving a brutal assault. This new production directed by Katharina Kastening and designed by Bettina John explores themes of resilience, women’s rights, and the power of individual courage against systemic oppression. With a score blending Indian and Western musical traditions, the opera creates a striking sound world that amplifies the urgency of its subject.
Kastening’s staging highlights both the intimacy of Mukhtar’s personal journey and its universal resonance in today’s struggles for justice and equality.
Bettina John’s set design uses dynamic, rope‑like structures that twist and weave across the stage, creating a tangible sense of tension and entrapment that mirrors Mukhtar’s struggle.

Music director: Bonnie Wagner

Director: Katharina Kastening

Set & costume designer: Bettina John

Video designer: Elena Tilli

Dramaturg: Laura Knoll

Cast:
Mukhtar: Sharon Tadmor (guest)

Mother / Minister / Reporter: Banu Schult

Father / Judge / Reporter / Mastoi: Oliver Weidinger

Faiz / Policeman / Reporter / Resident: Merlin Wagner

Shakur / Imam / Reporter / Mastoi / Resident: Sergio Augusto (guest)

Annu / Young woman / Reporter: Nihal Azak

With the Symphony Orchestra Wuppertal