Mumbai-based theatre group Arpana was one of two Indian companies invited to perform at the Globe Theatre in London as part of the World Shakespeare Festival from April to June 2012. All’s well that ends well, offered to Arpana, became Sau Saaru Jenu Chevat Saaru in Gujarati, keeping with the Globe’s decision to have literal translations of the original Shakespearean titles. Shakespeare’s “problem” play, which does not lend itself to a neat classification of either comedy or tragedy, has been given such a resonant and complete anchoring in the Gujarati ethos by Mihir Bhuta who adapted it and Sunil Shanbag, founder member and artistic director of Arpana, who directed it.
Says Shanbag, “When the Globe approached us I was clear that we would do it completely on our own terms and in a way that would seem credible to Gujarati audiences.” He was also certain that the play should have a life apart from its showing at the Globe. The play ran to packed theatres in Mumbai as Maro Piyu Gayo Rangoon (it is placed during the colonial era in rural Saurashtra, Mumbai and Rangoon against the backdrop of the Opium trade) before and after its return from the Globe. It has become very successful on the stridently commercial Gujarati circuit, which celebrates loud and big entertainers.
One of Shanbag’s masterstrokes was to set the play in the Gujarati mercantile milieu of Mumbai in the colonial era with its strong sense of fortunes being sought and made shadowing the emotional pangs of Heli (Helena) wonderfully played by Mansi Parekh. The musical form also allowed for the retaining of the essential lyricism and capacity for reflection inherent in the play and which mirrors countless Indian theatrical forms.
In another interpretation Helena’s single-minded pursuit of her beau Bertram can become a study of a damaged psyche. In this sympathetic production, though, the typically Indian emphasis on community and family persuades us that there is something quite orderly about seeking what you truly want. This sentiment is driven by a very brisk Gujarati common sense and clear-eyed determination. The cast includes Chirag Vora as Bertram and veteran actors Utkarsh Mazumdar and Meenal Patel.
Bottomline: Savour the best of Shakespeare as well as a self-assured production
Maro Piyu Gayo Rangoon
Where:Tejpal Hall, Grant Road, Mumbai
When:July 18.
