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






