Prakash D'Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai
Dubai, May 3: Theatre lovers in Dubai on Friday May 2 witnessed a rare, classic entertainment in modern theatre at Sheikh Rashid auditorium here, with two Konkani plays presented by 'Kalakul' repertory, the young professional team from Mangalore.
The much-acclaimed plays 'Bomma' and 'Melya Upranth' were presented by the 12-member team of male and female artistes, in an event organised by UAE's ace Konkani community organisation Mangalore Konkans.
Mangalore Konkans Dubai, as a part of its mission, promotes Konkani language and the organisation of these dramas were a part of its effort to spread Konkani and support Konkani artistes.
It was a rare opportunity for the audience to witness modern theatre drama. Both the plays transported the audience to a completely different world for three hours, with one of the finest exhibition of acting skills by young artistes. Kalakul is the only professional theatre group from Mangalore, under the patronage of Mandd Sobhann.
Full credit goes to director of the plays Christopher D'Souza Neenasam and script writer Arun Raj Rodrigues for bringng total professionalism to the plays. The cast comprising Anil Souza, Hanley Coelho, Malcon Rego, Maria D'Souza, Melwin Pais, Nishith Lobo, Rivin Crasta, Rohan Lobo, Sandeep Mascarenhas, Roshini Goveas and Sunil Siddi impressed one and all with their stupendous performances.
The first play 'Bomma', based on A T Lobo's 'Hardhyar Khuris', was replete with emotions, reflecting the life of people back in the 1960s. The lead role of 'Bomma' won the hearts of the audience with superb acting skills, ably supported by other characters.
The second play 'Melya Upranth' was a more modern drama, showcasing facts of life of the present generation and highlighting the personalities of individuals who 'wear masks' in their lives.. Once again the artistes were at the peak of performance. The lighting, music, and frequent changes of stage settings were fantastic.
Earlier, the event was inaugurated by guests Michael D'Souza of Ivory Grand and Dunes Hotel apartments, Raju Fernandes, Christopher D'Souza Neenasam, Arun Raj Rodrigues, Mangalore Konkans' James Mendonca and Alwyn Pinto, the event co-ordinator, by lighting the lamp.
Alwyn Pinto introduced the director and the playwright to the audience and also spoke about Kalakul and its artistes.
Speaking after the dramas, James Mendonca, president of Mangalore Konkans Dubai, said, "This was an amazing event organised for theatre enthusiasts. Kalakul has set a trend in modern theatre in Konkani. I request those who missed the dramas not to miss any opportunity to watch the young artistes of Kalakul."
Alwyn Pinto, convener of twin dramas also echoed similar sentiments. "Such acts are rare in Konkani and I must congratulate the young actors for their immense talent in portraying such acts with so much intensity. I would never miss another Kalakul event. I have instantly become a fan of the lone professional Konkani theatre troupe and urge everyone not to miss any of their events. These artistes are real talents," he said.
One of the spectators, Bosco D'Mello had this to say: "I came to the dramas with mixed emotions. I had to choose between IPL and Kalakul. I am glad I chose Kalakul. I do not regret my decision. I did not miss a single minute of the dramas. Everything, from organisation, acts, actors, to direction was fantastic. Hats off to the writer, the director, actors, technicians and most of all Mangalore Konkans for bringing these dramas to the shores of Dubai. No one should miss such events."
During the interval between the two plays, Konkani songs were presented by Joseph Mathias, Preema D'Souza, Anil Fernandes, Vincent Fernandes and Cressilla Rodrigues.
Roshan Dsilva compered the event.