PIO ESTEVES
tiatr@herald-goa.com
Altoddcho Saad, a tiatr written by Agnelo Fernandes, directed by Rupesh Jogle and presented by Ami Daizi, Fatorda, makes genuine efforts to bring to life the dying Goan-ness in every Goan.
The curtains unfold focusing on a girl (Lee-Sania Estibeiro), who has lost her memory and identity due to traumatic events in her life. She makes an unusual appearance and establishes rapport with tenant, Pedru Joao (Denzil Fernandes).
Robert (Rupesh Jogle), who was born and brought up in Africa, realizes the richness of his motherland, and wishes that his only son, Max (Armando Fernandes) residing in UK, return to his roots. It was Max’s wife, Meena (Jasmine Rodrigues Estibeiro), who coaxed him to go abroad.
Though Robert and his daughter-in-law, Meena are unaware of the girl’s identity, they provide her shelter and take care of her. Meanwhile, Max returns from UK and plans to seek greener pastures elsewhere.
Robert makes umpteen efforts to pull back his son, but to no avail. He makes his way to New Zealand, with a promise to take his family to his new destination.
How does the girl regain her true self? Will she succeed in tracing her lost father? How does she identify her guardian? What about Max and Meena’s only daughter pursuing her studies outside Goa? Will she ever return to her family?
‘Altoddcho Saad’ has an intense script, which calls for introspection. Although the tiatr moves at snail’s pace, every event and development on stage makes the viewer ponder on certain hard facts and ground realities.
The issue of Konkani language and script, greed for money by medical fraternity, destruction of land and property with vested interests, lure of the West and surrender of Indian citizenship, preservation of traditions and culture for posterity are some of sensitive issues tacked in the drama. Introduction of traditional instruments like ghumot, dhol kansallem, xamell in the concluding scene made the climax more enthralling.
Rupesh Jogle stands out in his character and is prompt in his dialogues. Armando and Jasmine team up well as husband and wife and they do justice to their respective roles. Denzil is at ease in his comical character and infuses enough energy as and when required. Pobre Dias is apt as the dumb father. But among all the characters, teen Lee-Sania Estibeiro wins hearts by her natural and childlike acts.
Songs in various forms rendered by Everleigh, Assenca, Previolla, Wilma, Famila, Jesmond, Anson, Nazario, Francis, P Agnelo, Bernardo, Royston and Joel were appealing as each had a unique theme. But Joyrus Fernandes deserve a special mention for his powerful voice and rendition on the trumpet simultaneously.
Stage and light sets by Agnelo Fernandes and Stanley Dias respectively, besides the background music by Ryan Dias need to be commended. Alex Afonso and his team also offered soothing live music to all the songs.
