Burden of Proof is an immersive theatre production by Dabble Dabble Jer Collective, co-created by Miriam Devaprasana and the collective itself. The show ran from 3rd to 6th July 2025 at Papan Haus, Petaling Jaya, and I attended the 3PM showing on 6th July.
The performance is based on true stories of sexual violence in Malaysia, gathered anonymously from the public. Through monologues, movement, sound and minimal staging, the show shares different lived experiences from childhood trauma to societal silence, all taking place in various rooms of a house. The audience walks alongside the actors, becoming witnesses to the stories instead of just observers.
This was my first time attending an immersive theatre performance, and I didn’t know what to expect. I went alone, which made me even more nervous, but the crew was friendly and welcoming. I explored the Quiet Space where posters displayed real survivors’ stories. One of them made me feel like crying, and I remember thinking, “The show hasn’t even started, why am I already overwhelmed?”
The set design was simple but effective. Each room suggested a different environment without needing elaborate props. The final scene where we lit candles in remembrance of the victims was especially moving. Hearing names that were familiar from past news stories made the entire experience feel very real.
Artistically, I was impressed with the acting and direction. The performers gave strong emotional deliveries, though there were a few times when some lines were hard to catch due to fast speech or mumbling. Still, the feelings behind theirs words came through clearly. The use of space was also clever. Although the venue was small, it didn’t feel cramped. The audience moved room to room, guided quietly by the crew. One creative element that stood out was long white cloths that changed purpose depending on the scene like turning a music classroom into a church. It was a small touch but effective.
The immersive format truly brought the message closer to home. I found myself sitting on the floor, sometimes right next to the actors, and a few even addressed me directly while remaining in character. This made everything feel more authentic and personal. It was more than just a performance, it felt as if I was part of their reality. That level of intimacy made the issue of sexual violence harder to overlook or detach from. It compelled the audience to listen, reflect, and experience discomfort which was essential in this context.
In summary, I believe Burden of Proof is a significant and impactful work of art. Although it didn’t alter my viewpoint as this issue has always been a part of my surroundings, it stirred feelings of anger, emotion and contemplation within me. There were instances when I rolled my eyes in disbelief at those statements made by the perpetrators on stage, fully aware that such things are said in real life as well.
The performance highlighted the importance of being a responsible community member, to protect, to speak out against wrongdoing, and to avoid silence or victim-blaming. To me, that is the essence of this performance’s impact. It lingers with you, influencing not just your thoughts, but also your actions.
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