Media Release
Dubai, Nov 18: ‘Vechogi Raanvcho,’ a Konkani humorous drama, performed in the premises of St Mary’s Church, Dubai on November 15, proved to be a great success.
The drama written by ‘Konkani Comedy Prince’ Pradeep Barboza Paladka was performed by ‘Sangon Mugdana Kalakar’ (SMK) artistes. The performance was organised by St Mary’s Mangalorean Community (SMMC) Dubai.
Over 1,300 people laughed their hearts out for two hours, as the comedy drama lived up to their expectations.
The programme began with an introduction of the event by UAE’s eminent emcee Uttam Menezes. SMMC coordinator Diany D’Souza and vice coordinator Joseph Mathias escorted the distinguished guests of the evening to the stage. SMMC spiritual director Fr Denis Saldanha, Daijiworld editor-in-chief and managing director Walter Nandalike, event main sponsor and managing director of Ivory Grand Hotel Apartments, Michael D’Souza, were the guests of honour. Programme vice coordinator Joseph Mathias welcomed the guests to the dais.
Fr Denis in his message conveyed the importance of cultural programmes to bring unity in the community. Walter Nandalike in his speech recollected fond memories of his association with the church’s Konkani organisation. He also hailed the sponsors’ support for Konkani programmes and appreciated Pradeep Barboza for his contribution to the Konkani industry through his exquisite dramas and movies.
All the sponsors and supporters who contributed to organise the event were honoured with mementos by Fr Denis Saldanha. SMMC core-committee member Vivian Fernandes rendered vote of thanks.
The much anticipated drama started with a strong narration and impactful music. The drama revolves around a bus stop in a village with two families living adjacent to it. Story of the play depicts day-to-day humorous nagging between husband and wife. Unexpected news of demolition of the bus stop comes as a shock to the two families. Sudden entry of a stranger to the bus stop and his help to save the bus stop brings hope in their life. But ultimate twist and turn in the events keeps the audience guessing the conclusion. The drama ends with a strong message to the society about the true values of a family, love and importance of forgiveness.
The crowd enjoyed the drama immensely. The venue was packed and the audience constantly burst into laughter. Noteworthy performances, clean comedy and powerful message captured the hearts of audience.
All the actors were in their full form exhibiting superlative acting skills. As neighboring couple - Pradeep Barboza and Helvin D’Souza and Melwyn D’Almeida and Lavina Fernandes, were superb in their acting. Godwin Castelino as a day dreaming film producer and Roystan D’Souza as a poet were great entertainers. Paul D’Souza as a rented wedding dancer who resides in the bus stop evoked laughter. Nanu Marol, Thottam as a stern owner of bus stop showed his serious acting talent.
Young Vernon D’Souza and Venicia Rodrigues added zest to the drama by their power-packed performances. Well choreographed dances from Lavina Fernandes, Vernon D’Souza and Venicia Rodrigues were fabulous. Fantastic and timely synchronized back ground music by Rohan Kalakul was noteworthy
Konkani Comedy Prince Pradeep Barboza matched his title with his great acting talent, outstanding direction and excellent dialogue delivery. ‘Vechogi Raanvcho’ is Pradeep’s 13th drama. This drama has been performed eight times earlier in different cities of India and abroad.
More shows of the drama are scheduled to be performed in Mumbai (Vasai and Jerimeri) at the end of this month. This achievement itself shows Pradeep’s capability and reign in the world of Konkani dramas.
Just before the drama concluded, SMMC felicitated each and every performer and musician of the drama including the star of the event Pradeep Barboza. Fr Denis Saldanha felicitated the artistes. Appropriate stage setting with first-rated sound system and brilliant lighting by Joel Crasta of Broadway Event Management enhanced the splendor of the event.
Sponsors of the event were Ivory Grand Hotel Apartments, Elegant Star Décor Middle East FZ LLC, Canara Restaurant, RAK Middle East Traders LLC, Globelink West Star Shipping LLC, Reliable Fabricators LLC, Abha Garage, Winnys Restaurant and Confectionery, Standard Fabrication & Eng. Works, Nelson Rodrigues, John D'Souza, Millennium Insurance Brokers Co LLC, Falcon Technologies, Power Plus Electrical Switchgear Inds LLC, Speed Star Cargo LLC, Ronald and Asha Fernandes.
Daijiworld.com and Radio Daijiworld were the media partners whereas CMS Digital World and Glossy Print Advertising were print partners.
Venue and all relevant aspects were well maintained efficiently by the proficient SMKV volunteers.
SMMC in its statement declared that it will look into organising more such events in future, with the support of well-wishers and Konkani community, which will provide not only entertainment to the families, but will revive in people, affinity towards Konkani culture.