Musical: Jonah (An adventure of Love)
Cast: Jackson Lawrence, Selvin Cruz, Jegan Xavier, Winey Noronha, Ben Rodrigues, Joseph D’Souza, Peter Raja, Reginald Kerketta, Ashim Minj
Director: Fr Dominic Alvares, Ann Barretto Sousa
Music: Venito Colaco, Fevan Cruz
Script: Selvin Cruz, Eric Mascarenhas, Jegan Franklin
Story: Jonah is chosen by God to give a message to the people of Nineveh. Will he accept the invitation and go ahead or take the escape route?
The curtains unfold with the opening song ‘Zai…vhoi amkam zai’ with a plea to preserve Goa and its serene beauty for posterity. It speaks about the greenery that once prevailed and in the name of development, the destruction of nature that followed thereafter.
The youth (Marcelino, Clinton, Baby and Patricia) are in search of the truth and seeks peace. Just when they feel frustrated in life, Fr Roy (Selvin Cruz) pacifies them.
The story of Jonah (Jackson Lawrence) unfolds wherein he enjoys life being obedient to his aged parents (Jegan and Winey) and loyal to his circle of friends. God speaks to Jonah wherein he invites him to carry a message to the people of Nineveh.
After much reluctance, Jonah confesses to his parents and friends God’s plan for him. They object and discourage him for fear of being killed.
Will Jonah accept God’s invitation? Or will he try to find an escape route for himself? When he tries to dodge God, what happens during the journey? How does he convince the king? What is the end result?
‘Jonah, an adventure of love’, a two-hour musical presented by Pilar Mission Seminary carries a tale which depicts various challenges, trials and tribulations and the strong message of God’s love and mercy towards his people.
All the artistes on stage have given a fine performance. Jackson Lawrence stands tall and has played a convincing lead role. He has been ably assisted by Jegan and Winey as his parents. As king, Ben Rodrigues is bold in speech and body language. The artistes in the ship, at the tavern in Nineveh and those decked up in sack cloth were alluring. The magicians Lionel and Nevil mesmerized with their magical stunts.
In between the acts, the shadow images were equally appealing to the eyes. Choreography by David Furtado and team deserve appreciation. The props on stage were apt to the situation created by the artistes.
Overall, a fine presentation by the entire team, thus helping the audience to carry a powerful message back home.