Haresh Sharma, born in 1965 in Malaysia, is not just a name in Singapore’s cultural scene—he is a force that has shaped its theatre landscape. With a career spanning more than three decades, Sharma has written over 100 plays that have captivated audiences worldwide. His works have been staged not only in Singapore but also across the globe, in cities such as Berlin, London, Melbourne, and Busan.
His voice, unique and often socially conscious, reflects the fabric of Singapore’s society while addressing global issues. From mental health to racial relations, his plays have created ripples of change in the theatre world.
Haresh Sharma’s story is one of dedication, passion, and resilience. His journey from a young student in Singapore to a globally recognized playwright is nothing short of inspiring. His works continue to inspire generations of artists and theatergoers, making him one of the most influential playwrights in Asia today.
Early Life and Education of Haresh Sharma: A Foundation for Creativity
Born in Malaya, Haresh Sharma moved to Singapore at a young age. He attended Tanjong Katong Secondary School and later, Temasek Junior College, where his love for literature began to flourish. Despite an early affinity for writing, he didn’t initially see himself as a playwright. It wasn’t until his time in national service, when boredom and the quest for purpose led him to audition for an acting role in the Arts Festival, that he discovered his passion for theatre. From there, his interest in writing plays was ignited.
Sharma’s academic journey took him to the National University of Singapore (NUS), where he majored in English Language and Literature. It was at NUS that he met Alvin Tan, a fellow undergraduate who would become a lifelong collaborator and the founder of The Necessary Stage (TNS). In 1988, after participating in the NUS-Shell Short Play Competition, Sharma won first prize, propelling him into the world of playwriting. This victory marked the beginning of his incredible career.
In 1994, Haresh Sharma furthered his studies, earning a Master of Arts in Playwriting from the University of Birmingham with a Shell-NAC Scholarship. His education abroad deepened his understanding of theatre and laid the groundwork for his future works.
A Transformative Career: The Resident Playwright of The Necessary Stage
Haresh Sharma’s professional career took off when he became the resident playwright of The Necessary Stage (TNS) in 1990, a role he still holds today. Under the banner of TNS, Sharma has created some of his most iconic works, often exploring themes that reflect the social, political, and cultural realities of Singapore.
His play Off Centre (1993), which was later included in Singapore’s “O” level literature syllabus, brought attention to mental illness, a topic rarely explored in the region’s arts. Similarly, Still Building (1992) garnered widespread acclaim, winning the Singapore Literature Prize (Merit). His deep engagement with societal issues is evident in many of his works, including Fundamentally Happy (2007), Good People (2008), and Gemuk Girls (2009), which have won Best Original Script awards at the M1-The Straits Times Life Theatre Awards.
Sharma’s plays often push boundaries, experimenting with different forms and structures. He believes that the power of theatre lies in its ability to challenge audiences, offering no singular response. His dedication to the development of his characters, along with his use of innovative forms such as multimedia and choreography, has earned him the admiration of both critics and theatre-goers.
International Recognition and Awards
The international recognition of Haresh Sharma’s works has been immense. In 2014, he was awarded the prestigious S.E.A. Write Award, further cementing his place as a leading playwright in Southeast Asia. His works have been performed in renowned theatre venues around the world, from London’s Albany Theatre to the Cairo International Festival of Experimental Theatre.
Closer to home, Sharma’s contributions to Singapore’s cultural landscape were formally recognized when he was awarded the Cultural Medallion in 2015. This honor is given to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the arts in Singapore. The same year, his play Fundamentally Happy was celebrated as one of the finest plays in the last 50 years by The Business Times, a testament to the lasting impact of his work.
Sharma’s ability to tackle important issues through theatre has earned him a wide range of fellowships and grants, including from the British Council and the United States Information Service. He has also been a recipient of the Young Artist Award (1997) and a Gold Master Playwright Award from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts in 2011.
Haresh Sharma’s Social Contributions
Beyond his work as a playwright, Haresh Sharma is deeply invested in nurturing the next generation of theatre artists. As a teacher at NUS’s Theatre Studies department, he has mentored many young playwrights, passing on his knowledge and passion for the craft. Sharma’s plays are also frequently included in academic curricula both locally and internationally, a recognition of their educational value.
Haresh Sharma’s influence extends beyond the theatre. He has used his platform to address important societal issues, from mental health and racial harmony to the education system. His works act as both a mirror and a critique of society, offering audiences a chance to reflect on the challenges and triumphs of the world around them.
Also Read : T. T. Rajah: A Relentless Champion of Justice and Political Integrity