Kuvempu's play draws huge crowds

The third production of 'Malegalalli Madhumagalu', a play based on Kuvempu's novel of the same name, has become a huge hit.

Especially on the weekends, the nine-hour play has been pulling crowds to Kalagrama. Started on February 16, curtains will fall on the third production on March 21. While Kuppalli Venkatappa Puttappa's (Kuvempu) novel has entered its 50th year since publication, December 29 is the author's birthday.

This time, poets from all corners of the state will descend on the venue on the day of Kuvempu's birth anniversary. After poetry recitation, there will be seminars.

About 30 to 35 students of National School of Drama, including those who have passed out, are acting in the play, which has about 80 artists and 20 technicians. The play has retained the music (by Hamsalekha) and stage designs of the previous productions.

The previous production brought a revenue of Rs 20 lakh. This time, the organisers are expecting Rs 5 lakh more. The production itself costs about Rs 55 lakh, of which Rs 30 lakh has been provided by the government.

Considering the rise in costs, the ticket is priced at Rs 249, compared to the previous Rs 200.