by Denzil Fernandes
Pics by Jovin Dsouza and Alex Lewis
Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
Dubai, Oct 15: It was indeed heartening to see a jam-packed audience at the Shaikh Rashid Auditorium of the Indian High School for a Konkani drama which was the highest ever seen in recent times for a Konkani programme. That there is scope for powerful dramas was evident by the turnout or may be because it was Dubai’s most famous dramatist Pradeep Barboza who was behind the entire entertainment. The goodly Friday crowd enjoyed every bit although one could do better with better dialogue delivery and far more powerful voices and sound as well.
The crowd which was eager to listen to every word from the actors had to repeatedly shout saying ‘sound sound’ which could have been avoided with better management. The actors too with more experience should learn to deliver their dialogues right in front of the microphones although it may not be possible always.
Dubai’s three-in-one talent Pradeep Barboza is proving that he can deliver more than what the audience wants. This was evident when his new play 'Ootre Uzwadlem' went beyond one’s imagination with plenty to laugh and cheer while also managing to convey a meaningful social message. Pradeep is a well know drama writer, actor and director all rolled into one.
The playwright, actor and director who has shown his immense dramatic skills with numerous plays successfully performed all over India and the Gulf was once again at his best with ‘Ootre Uzwadelm’ where the youngsters trained by him showed enough qualities to perform well in front of the paying public.
As the contractor Pradeep excelled with his sure and quick dialogues while the shopkeeper Alex maam (Sunil) caught the eye with his great acting. Another pair to catch the eye was the comical lorry driver (Gowin) and conductor (Paul) who were tailor made for their roles. The lorry driver Godwin in particular was cut out for the role although one rarely saw him using the trio of mobiles which he was carrying to talk to his girl friends!
Dubai's young talents Ramcy Fernandes and Sharon Rego in lead roles proved their maturity and excelled in all departments.
Those in villain's role 'uncle', and as mother and two brothers too showed their ability in acting and dialogue delivery.
One has seen the young Deepak D’Silva Paladka's mettle in other Konkani plays in Dubai and elsewhere. Along with Pradeep Barboza, Deepak is known to enact his roles with absolute efficiency. As the Dubai-returned office boy he took the cake with his fine acting. Other actors too played well within their abilities.
The evening was put up by Konkan Yuva who channeled their energies for a good cause and proved that they were responsible citizens even if they have left their shores and come to the UAE. The energetic Catholic youngsters managed to organize a meaningful drama for the first time with plenty of teamwork and one has to commend their efforts.
In a brief stage programe, the event was inaugurated by lighting the camp. Ronald Colaco, NRI entrepreneur was the chief guest. Walter Nandalike of Daijiworld, Dayan D'Souza of Daiji Dubai and Fernandes Cascia, veteran dramatist were the guests of honour.
Ronald Colaco inspired the young minds and urged the audience to keep aside some part of their earnings to contribute for the betterment of their mother tongue, Konkani. Leading by example, he announced AED 25,000 for Konkan Yuva and urged the youngsters to unite and do more good work like they have been doing for the last seven years.
'Ootre Uzwadlem' playwright Pradeep Barboza and Francis Fernandes Cascia both were honoured on the occasion. Konkan Yuva bestowed the title ‘Comedy Prince ‘ to Pradeep Barboza.
Earlier, the audience were treated to mind-blowing dance performances by the talented kids of Dubai, followed by a power-point presentation of Konkan Yuva's achievements.
Dubai's well-known compere Uttam Menezes compered the stage programme. Deepak Machado introduced Pradeep Barboza to the audience.
All in all, it was a well-organized event by Konkan Yuva and one only hopes that the organization will find ways to use their revenues to better the conditions of the people around them. Well done, Konkan Yuva.