Dec 20, 2006 10:57 PM
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(Updated Dec 20, 2006 11:07 PM)
Konkani Thiatr (Theater) Vs Movies
To the ones who must be wondering why does my title include Thiatr, This is theater in Goa, My husband is very keen on me getting acquainted with Goan Culture, He ensures that I attend all the feasts in our little village Santo Estevam getting back to my topic of discussion.Thiatr forms an integral part of entertainment among ethnic Goans, You would always find the Kala Academy full of people for any Thiatr that comes to town.
When we just got married I used to crib that my hubby doesn’t like to watch movies, little did I know what a wonderful experience a Thiatr would be. The first Thiatr I watched was
Gorv (Pride) – By Tragedy KingRoss Ferns
The play started with the usual cloth backdrop that I was able to associate with my school day stage. The play itself was serious, but the scenes between are what remains in my memory even to this day, which would be over a year now. The amazing thing about the actors is that they not only have an audible clear loud voice but also can sing in melody too. Most of the Goan heritage songs come from Thiatr, with famous playwrights like Alfred Ross, nighintingale of Goa Lorna and her enchanting voice.
Thiatr not only entertains but also same time enlightens people about any ill happening in the society and encourages people to take action and correct this.
Comedy was not a part of the play, so it happened in between the scenes, I cannot forget some dialogues like ‘ Kiten Re ‘, (What Man) This need not mean anything but still be able to tickle peoples funny bone, in the manner it is said.
I can only associate some people from main stream moviesdoing this such as Shakti Kapoor with ‘AOOO’ , and Om Puri with ‘Mogambo Kush Hua’ , And my favourite Paresh Ravel with Deva re Deva in Hera Pheri.
The second Thiatr, which is still fresh in my mind, is
Sant Anthon – By Prince Jacob
This is a play about a Catholic Saint who lived during the medieval ages in Spain, and performed 13 Miracles, The journey of his life, the trials the temptations from his naughty friends. The comedy part is played by Princes’ brother Humbert, who acts as a fellow Frier who acts as Padr Gustav and Padr Olav acted by Prince himself, melodious song and a synchronized dance at the Friary, The dialogues are flawless no retakes, no guffaws every thing seems to flow like clear water.
I agree that movies also put in a lot of effort but there are so many retakes, but here under the spotlight and so many anxious eyes, the dramatist gets his due, the whistles and the applause for a heart touching scene or a wonderful dialogue. But a movie actor would not even know how much his audience love him, except for his/her fan mail, Apart from this their world is detached from the audience.
As usual in-between scene always included a meaningful song. Laced with moral values. Its sad to say very few movies nowadays have all the elements of emotions expressed.
Just two Konkani thiatr’s have touched my heart, would like to watch many more and I would make sure I would always patronize this age-old culture.
