Gripping tales on stage

MOVING ACT

The first two days of English Theatre Festival at the Ranga Shankara saw two different plays revolving around themes of political instability and relationships.

The family drama, Proof directed by Arundhati Raja, explored the intimate relationships through the mysteries of science. Based on the David Auburn’s Proof, which won the 2001 Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award winner, the play, revolves around Catherine who has spent years caring for Robert, her unstable but brilliant mathematician father. After his death Catherine goes through a lot where she meets her estranged sister and the attention of Hal, Robert’s former student, who hopes to find valuable proof in notebooks crammed with Robert’s thoughts.

Apart from a budding romance, the discovery of a ground-breaking mathematical formula serves as a trigger to set off a psychological mystery surrounding its authorship.

With a gripping story and wonderful subject, the cast presented the play really well. Arun Zachariah as Catherine needs a special mention, especially her shift from a sexy and vibrant character to lethargic and angry person. Her body movements and expressions were amazing.

The second day saw the inspirational story of Burmese leader Aung San Suu Kyi. Directed by Prakash Belwadi, the Lady of Burma was a compelling solo performance, which was originally written by Richard Shannon.

Set in the backdrop of the Depayin attack in Burma, the play revolves around the leader who was also a political prisoner.

Despite being the democratically elected leader of the country, Suu Kyi is kept under house arrest, for over a decade, by Burma’s military.

Now in her 20th year of detention, Suu Kyi lives in solitary confinement. The play in itself was designed as a one-act performance where Suu Kyi takes one and all into a journey of her memories.

Set in the hospital wing of Isein, Rangoon’s largest prison, Lady of Burma was a very gripping story and gave a deep insight into the fear that ruled the country where there were over 1000 prisoners, slaves, child soldiers and suppression of minorities with intimidation.