Calcutta’s Moral Police are out again, disrupting the Institute of Factual Theatre Arts’ Ritusukhe Bibarna Kabita. The provocation, an onstage kiss, is quite harmless; the MPs may protest Bollywood B-films instead, but these probably comprise their staple entertainment. Director Debasish Datta’s troubles lie not in sexuality but in the terribly weak play, about a poet who follows his impulses, totally neglecting his wife Kabita (symbolic name) who, chastely, averts two boyfriends. Meant to signify an artist’s restless creativity that must not be curbed, to me his forced, indulgent bohemianism only gives him the licence to do as he pleases. Why Kabita meekly reunites with him, no questions asked, baffles me. The paintings used in the set are aesthetically awful, too.
Ananda Lal
The heart leaps with joy every time a promising singer arrives in the over-saturated world of Rabindrasangeet where mediocrity rules the roost. Listening to a fluent treatment of Ogo nadi apan bege pagalpara by Biswarup Rudra (Kalakunj, June 21) hosted by Taranga Foundation Trust made one doubly happy as one is frustrated by the dearth of good male voices. Except for a sudden rush of blood in Je rate mor or Jete ekla pathe, Rudra displayed commendable poise and command over rhythmic numbers. A penchant for the unfamiliar and an impressive emotional involvement made Sudeshna Sanyal’s recital a notable one. Rarely does anyone try the stimulating Tomar katitater dhoti. Both should get rid of the habit of depending on accompanists for the right mood and tempo. It does not speak highly of their confidence level.
Anshuman Bhowmick
Padadik’s Summer Carnival at Bharatiyam, Salt Lake, showcased items that their trainees learnt at a month-long workshop. The children did a skit on how they are pressurised in their studies though they need a break (Que sera sera). The most intersting performances of the evening were Western dances by Soujit Das, Tarique Khan, Tapas Tas, Gilles Chuyen and Christy Blyther. Jadoo was the most elaborate item choreographed by Das. The grand finale was an item performed by all the participants; it started with Chodd do anchal and ended with Gori gori. Sadly, some items looked unorganised, so much so that a few participants looked confused as to what they are supposed to do on stage. Colourful outfits, lights and sets, however, were attractive.
Tina Pal
