When Jamaican heritage Vanessa meets Indian heritage Aravindan, their romance quickly takes a serious turn when cultural differences and parental disapproval threaten to break their deep connection. This 21st century inter-cultural relationship is set against the life of 18th century botanist Carl Linneaus, whose early attempts to classify all living things had far-reaching and devastating consequences.

Altered Skin has developed a trademark blend of movement and sharply written text to create dynamic work that uses universal stories and life events as a framework to explore far deeper themes. In a development for the company, Creative Director Shane Shambhu is stepping back from performing to focus on writing and directing and working with an ensemble. 

Conceived, written and directed by Shane Shambhu

Dramaturg: Gail Babb

Creative Consultants: ‘Funmi Adewole and Ashlee Roberts

Script Consultant: Arzhang Pezhman

Sound: Gerry Smith

Devisors: Kimisha Lewis & Rav Moore, Taja Christian & Hamza Ali

Photography: Graeme Braidwood

When We See Ourselves is currently in development and is planned to be completed in 2025.