It was a fun-filled evening, with loads of laughter and packed with catchy songs, at the MLR Convention Centre, where Padma Bhushan awardee and renowned
theatre, film director and writer Sai Paranjpye’s new play ‘Rigmarole’ was performed recently.
Presented by the Bangalore Little Theatre (BLT), ‘Rigmarole’ saw some stunning performances by not only talented adults but also very expressive children, including those from the Association for the Mentally Challenged (AMC).
An out-and-out children’s play, ‘Rigmarole’ revolves around the visit of Princess Lizinia, from the mythical country of Batuslavakia, to Mumbai. The city is abuzz with activity upon hearing the news of the princess’ visit. And preparations are on full swing to welcome her. From the corrupt politicians to socialites, the media, the underworld and even dabbawalas, everyone gets ready to go out of their way to impress the princess. In the midst of all this, the princess’ necklace of rare diamonds is stolen. What follows is a hilarious turn of events.
The play, which was performed by a 30-member cast, saw immense energy on stage without a moment of silence. The catchy jingles sung by the children made a lasting impression on the audience.
Many young audience members were even singing after the play got over. Says Piyush, a ten-year-old who had come with his parents for the play, “Everything was perfect and I thought the underworld dons were the funniest.” His mother, Pratiksha, adds that she too enjoyed the play. “After a long time, I really enjoyed a children’s play. The story was gripping and even the actors were so into their characters that one couldn’t help but relate to the story,” she says.
There was a scene in the production, in which the cast encouraged the audience to sing along with them — and the enthusiastic audience obliged. “The play not only appealed to the children but also us adults, who got an opportunity to tap into our inner child,” says Sashvath, a professional. Even though the play is set in Mumbai, Bangaloreans loved every bit of it. They could relate to the corruption, the superficiality of the elite and middle-class life, all of which formed a part of the play. “If you look at it, there was also something one could learn from the play. Most of the issues, which were portrayed in a funny way, actually had a message about how society has become today,” says Meera, a member of the audience.