Today's children are over-loaded with work that they are missing out on finer things in life like spending time with their parents or playing outdoor games. Parents too are busy and can't spend much time with their children. Highlighting these issues children took to stage with élan, Vijay Tendulkar's “Bobby.” Twenty five students of Stds. VI and VII took part in this play. Chandana, a Std. VII student of Sri Aurobindo International School, who played the lead role says, “Bobby is a play that speaks of the issues affecting the present day children.”
Of neglect
“Bobby” is the story of a little girl who after being neglected by her parents creates an imaginary world in her mind. This play also showcases her quest to receive her parents' love and attention. The play ends on a positive note with Bobby finding the love and attention she craved for from her parents.
Director Ram Mohan Holagundi of Nishumbita explains, “In this play, the parental care is low and the child becomes aloof. The story begins with the father wanting a son and the mother wanting a daughter. The very name, Bobby, is mixture of the names (Baba and Baby)."
This play has a variety of roles ranging from a joker to “Akbar and Birbal.” All the children played their respective roles to perfection. It had dance sequences and songs that were presented by the students with verve. Amogh, who played the role of “khaki rakshas” (brown devil) says, “there were auditions, and we were asked to do any role we wanted.”
Mr. Ram Mohan says, “There is always energy in children's theatre. You don't have to direct them. If you tell them a scene, they can present it in five ways.” “The play was very realistic. I liked Bobby's acting. Her emotions and expressions were good”, says Bhargav, a Std. VII student who played the role of “Chota Bheem”.
